Dr. Peter Samuel Kennedy

During my initial visit, Dr. Kennedy was so thorough. When Max and I left his office, I felt better than I had in 5 months, when I first noticed the lump. He explained in plain language what the dangers were from my cancer, how fast/slow it has grown, the kinds of treatment and what the chances for success were with each one. He explained what I expect with no treatment at all. He talked about what he called the natural history of my cancer, what threats it could be to me, and, in general when it might occur. He invited questions from my Mom and Max. He answered all of them. I had to wait about 40 minutes to see him, and I just about left. But some of the other people in the waiting room told me he is well worth twice the wait. And they were right.

What an incredibly bright man! When he sat down with me in the exam room, I felt less afraid than I've felt in 3 months since my diagnosis. He explained what he called the natural history of my cancer, and its relationship with my heart disease and my weight. Then he outlined each step we needed to take and why. He outlined the kinds of therapy he was considering, including their success records and side effects. Tom and I will return after the radiologists sample my tumor with a needle, which Dr. Kennedy says will be only slightly painful, but completely safe. After the biopsy, Dr. Kennedy will discuss what the benefit of that information will be, and what his treatment recommendation is to be. At last, after visiting 3 oncologists, I think we've found a partner we can trust.