FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2007 09:58 AM, CDT

Mayo it is! As much as I enjoyed Zion....Mayo is that much more. What an impressive facility. State of the art, comforting and most of all....human. We met with Dr. Axel Grothey yesterday afternoon. His background in research and treatment is stellar. He is a champion in his field. How could I not choose him for my doctor? How lucky am I? http://www.mayoclinic.org/oncology-rst/14263734.html Google him....you'll see. He chose a treatment plan that is totally different than what has been suggested thus far. Zion recommended what is basically a derivative of 5-FU, which is what I have been treated with up to this point. It hasn't been working. Dr. Grothey recommended weekly infusions of Paclitaxel and Carboplatin. I'm going to have to do my research on this one as it is totally new to me. Wigs and fun hats will be in my future. I will lose my hair. Do I care? NO! Treat me and extend my life. I'm thinking a head shaving party will be taking place in about a month. A required cathartic experience. I know that friends and family were excited about me going to Zion. I didn't want to disappoint them. At the end of the day, when you list all of the pros and cons, Zion did not offer more than Mayo has to offer. I was expecting a more natural approach from CTCA. I thought they would be pumping me with vitamin packs, monitoring a special diet and offering complementary therapies as part of their treatment plan. That is not their approach. They fill you with toxic drugs....just like the other guys. Zion educates you on mind, body and spirit. Mayo has a beautiful setting that offers the same resources. The environment at Mayo was just more soothing and professional. The following will help you understand how I reached my final conclusion. If you were to have surgery, would you want a surgeon that has performed your specific procedures 1,000 times or 100 times? The stress of this most recent journey has taken its toll. I am worn out. My mind has not been able to rest. Dick has been dealing with his own anxiety and stresses as well. I wish we could just escape this...just for a bit.