The fact that I am just now getting to see Dr. Bashey almost 2 weeks after I got the results from Dr. Mahmood, is unreal. Frustrating. Annoying. I’ve told my family this many times but I want to get it out to make me feel better. On 11/7/24 Dr. Mahmood told me the results of the pathology report. He said I should get into BMT “quickly” since I had my transplant there before. Well it’s been a nightmare getting in. I had to call them last week. At first I was told it would be Christmas Eve before I could see Dr. Bashey. I said I’d be willing to see another doctor. She said even if Dr. Bashey would allow it, it would December 11th becasuse they are so busy–completely booked. Elsie said she would get back to me about an appointment. She didn’t.
I called Thursday and after many calls back and forth they said they could put me in at Wednesday, Nov 20th at 1:30. I was thrilled. Until, they called and cancelled the appointment. Initially I was told that Dr. Bashey just didn’t want to see me yet. He wanted to see me a little further out. Then, I was told he was waiting on results. All of my results were in! I asked if it was because I hadn’t had a bone marrow biopsy, and the girl on the phone said, oh, yes, that’s probably it. I then insisted on talking to someone else. They put Katrina on the phone who is one of the coordinators. She said whoever gave me that appointment, it wasn’t their appointment to give? I was livid. She said they would try to get me an appointment and call me back Monday or Tuesday.
A friend of mine who works at BMT suggested I reach out to another coordinator which I did. That was the right thing to do because now I’m making progress. I will see Dr. Bashey at 8:30 tomorrow 11/20. Elsie said he’s “willing” to see you tomorrow. Look, Biyatch, I am a patient there and there should be no, he’s “willing” to see me like it’s a favor. How I have been treated has made me really want to consider Emory even though I haven’t talked to anyone there yet.
I still have not talked to Sloan Kettering. I hope to speak to Sam’s Uncle about how I can speed up the process. It’s so frustrating to know I’ve relapsed, and I’m sitting waiting around as it grows. Hopefully, I’ll find something out soon.
Thoughts when things aren’t going your way: 1)Pray. 2)Don’t take “no” for an answer (see #3). 3)Be the squeaky wheel. (see #2).
ADDENDUM: 11/20/2024. I was worked into Dr. Bashey’s schedule early this morning. Les came with me, and Dr. Bashey met us for nearly an hour. We met with the coordinator afterward. It feels good to know that even though it will take months to coordinate whether I am treated at Northside or elsewhere, I at least understand a plan and a process. Steve, Penny, Fletcher, and Emma will all be match-tested.
Also, I talked to Sloan Kettering late yesterday and gave them more information about me. I’m happy I didn’t get too down yesterday. Those worries of mine have been resolved.🥳 Angie