Cancer Survivors and Patients Share Their Experience With Seeking Second Opinions on Their Diagnosis and Treatment

Each week on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, CURE® asks its readers to share their thoughts with a #CureConnect discussion question.

This past week, we asked: “Did you seek a second opinion when discussing your cancer diagnosis and treatment?”

Here’s what some of our readers shared:

• “Yes. My first oncologist had me on watch-and-wait at stage 4. I got a new oncologist who started me on chemotherapy and now I am in remission.” – B.S.
• “Yes. Both oncology surgeons said the same thing. I was very lucky.” – D.Z.
• “Yes, I did to validate the chemotherapy recommendation and approach.” – C.M.
• “No, I had complete trust in the team of doctors recommended by my primary doctor.” – L.R.
• “Yes. I saw three oncologists. They gave me two years to live. Five years later, and I am still here. Fat and healthy, thanks to radical radiation.” – L.V.Z.
• “I am about to get a second opinion for my third cancer. More info can only empower me as a patient, to know I have the best team and plan aligning with my goals.” – J.V.
• “Yes, and I switched my surgery to my second opinion doctor. There’s been no evidence of disease for six years.” – M.C.
• “Yes. I was stage 2a and they recommended that I seek out other opinions! It was a group effort!” – L.L.
• “My doctor strongly recommended that I seek a second opinion before deciding on my cancer treatment. I did tons of research, read dozens of books, spoke with many friends, family and others with cancer. But I didn't take my doctor's advice to seek a second opinion from another doctor. Even though my treatment was very successful, I'm not happy that I didn't follow the doctor's advice. If my treatment failed, I would have not only regretted my decision but kicked myself for not taking the time to seek a second opinion. If I had followed the doctor's advice, then if my treatment of choice failed, at least I could take comfort in knowing that I did my homework.” – G.G.
• “Yes, I had a rare cancer diagnosis, so my doctor encouraged me to seek another opinion. Felt better going through treatment knowing both doctors agreed with diagnosis.” – L.R.

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