rlogan,

I am at the beginning stages of tests etc. at Mayo Jax for stage 3 SMCLC. So far I am really impressed with the doctors and my care team at Mayo. I was diagnosed while summering in Michigan (My home is in the Jax area). What helped me to get care at Mayo is that I immediately contacted my primary care doctor. He sent my test results to Mayo and procured an appointment for me with my care team at Mayo. You may want to try that avenue for your wife. It worked for me. Cancer is so nasty. After yesterday's appointment with the radiation oncologist, I really hit a low. I think the reality of my diagnosis finally sunk in. It's really scary. I love Merry's suggestions about controlling your attitude, your appointments, your questions etc. I think this site could be a great avenue for really expressing our private feelings and concerns. My friends all want to find ways to help - I'm going to let them. I do not want them to be my sounding board for when I get down. I'm trying to really look at my friends and determine the simple things they can do in the way of helping me. It would be easy to want to crawl in my hole and shut everyone out. Thanks for letting me vent. Wishing you the best on getting into Mayo. Please try your primary care doc. Try all the angles until you get in. Once in there are so many appointments and tests. It will take a while before you get started on treatment. It is all necessary so the treatments are geared for each individual. I was diagnosed in MI on July 17. My initial appointment with a Mayo oncologist was August 5th. Next week will be more testing and biopsies. It seems to take about a month of appointments and biopsies before treatments begin. Take care of both of you. V