"Cancer Treatment"

I have recently finished Radiotherapy treatment for my 7th cancer site since 2019.

I have had, bowel, liver (3 tumors), bowel (rectum removed), throat, right lung, left lung and most recently lymph nodes in chest cavity.

Including 2 illeostomies, 2 pick lines and 1 peg tube.

Initial surgery treatment was disappointing as no chemotherapy follow up was implemented then liver tumors occurred. 

All subsequent surgery by a different surgeon was excellent and successful. 

Throat cancer treatment was brutal with combination of chemotherapy and radiotherapy. 

The prognosis of the 7th site in lymph nodes was terminal.

In the consultation last year when I was informed by the oncology consultant of the prognosis, there came a point when I asked why chemotherapy was being offered, where a second consultant intervened to tell me, because they are paid to treat people. 

My wife and I returned 1 week later to an appointment arranged by a brilliant MacMillan nurse (Gemma), as we had further questions.

The second consultant oncologist (mentioned above) was unbelievably rude and unprofessional. I was no more than 2 steps in the room when they asked if I had got my head around it yet.

They then proceeded to tell me how they wouldn't have the treatment and would prefer quality of life, while beating their chest with their fist as well as rudely telling my wife "months rather than years".

I ignored their ill-advised comments, informed staff I did not want this  consultant involved in my treatment and was assigned to the first consultant oncologist I had seen instead.

One year on I have had chemotherapy which was relatively successful and have now completed radiotherapy working with a very positive Consultant. 

I fortunately remain well and active and as such I pity those who take the advice of that second consultant, if I had I probably would not be here to contribute to this survey.

The Radiotherapy staff have been excellent, in particular the reception pair Jackie and Bob deserve particular mention.

Not only are they professional and efficient but are warm and welcoming which is extremely important to patients unfortunate enough to visit that department for treatment. 

Not only kind and attentive to patients but also to wives and others accompanying them.

I cannot praise their contribution highly enough.

In summary, every clinician I have told of the comments and behaviour of the oncology consultant referred to here has been astonished and mortified that a doctor could behave in that manner.

If any attention is paid to this submission I would strongly recommend the points regarding this consultant are discussed with them to prevent any other patient being mal-treated in that manner.