Re: multiple ERCPs/stenting

June 19, 2004

Jen -

I, to, experience multiple ERCPs and stenting for panc divisum. Many times

my duct is so tight, the dr. can't even get ONE stent in.

It is very frustrating, and it feels like the dr. is giving me the runaround,

however, I believe I am going to one of the best drs. in the US/world, and I

trust his judgement. I travel over 2000 miles round trip to see him.

The frustration with him (and I guess with your dr.too) is not that he is

giving me the runaround - it is that drs (the experts) DO NOT KNOW which

procedures will work for which patients - AND they don't have a cure, so they do

what

seems to give relief to most patients - even for a short amount of time.

It has taken me several years to get to this point.

I used to ask, why can't they " fix " me, why can't I get a straight answer?

Now I don't ask anymore. I know my drs. are doing the best they know how to do.

I am in control of my healthcare. I decide when/if I want more ERCPs and

stents. I decide when/if I want a puestow or a whipple (not there yet, by the

way). Having that control helps me understand that the ERCPs and stents are the

best the medical community has to offer for my particular case, at this

moment.

I have even become thankful that I have this procedure to help, even for a

few months.

This is a continuous journey, with its ups and downs. Right now, I feel

good, but I am still looking forward to my next ERCP and stenting July 23rd as

it

may give me even more months of feeling good.

Cecilia

Mesa, AZ

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