Nine months ago, I was diagnosed with the big C. I would not wish that on my worst enemy even if I had one. My world came crumbling down not to forget I still have 101 things to do in my bucket list. Since then, I have been in and out of hospitals and cancer centers, imaging centers, blood labs, pharmacies etc sometimes dazed and confused like in a drunken stupor. Sure, I was depressed when I first heard the devastating news. I was then blessed with a dim light at the end of the tunnel. Dr. Ian Anderson, an oncologist extraordinaire, fell on to my lap. He was a great find and god sent. In joint consultation with UCSF, he mapped out a plan of action for me and guided me every step of the way in my arduous journey ahead.
Dr. A is not just your regular run-of-the-mill doctor. His medical credentials relating to oncology are stellar. I'm sure hanging on the wall somewhere in his office, you can read about his medical board certifications, his medical degree from Duke University School of Medicine and his residency in John Hopkins Hospital backed by over 20 years of experience. It is gratifying to personally find out that my oncologist is highly regarded and respected by his fellow physicians both in Sonoma County and well-known cancer centers in Stanford and UCSF. Word-of-mouth endorsements from other patients are equally strong signs of an all-around good doctor.
He never talks down on his patients even when asked a silly or stupid question. (BTW, I have a knack for asking stupid questions!). He is thorough, takes time to truly listen and demonstrates humility and appreciates all my concerns. He is soft spoken, encouraging, comforting and consoling. Every time I leave his office, I feel empowered with new knowledge, understanding and strengthened my resolve to fight on in spite of the odds against me!
I last seen him today and his parting words to me were "Keep your upbeat spirits up! We are in this battle together and with your right attitude, we shall do our best to beat the odds!" I have pancreatic cancer in case you're wondering and possibly already living on borrowed time. But I feel like I have a renewed zest for living.
Thank you Dr. A and kudos to your excellent team of oncologists, nurse practitioners, nurses, medical assistants, phlebotomists etc at St. Joseph Health Medical Group at 3555 Round Barn Cir, Santa Rosa! read more