More Transition of Care

 

 

This is a continuation of my story…

After Dr Hertado left, his replacement arrived at the clinic.  Due to the high volume of doctors (high for the area and the clinic) that were coming and going, I made a decision. I was having a tough time recalling names of the oncologists, so when the replacement oncologist arrived, I informed him that from that point forward he would be referred to as #5 as he was the fifth medical oncologist in that clinic to treat me. We agreed that after six months time had passed, he would provide some proof that he would be sticking around, and then I would use his real name.  

At the six month mark, I asked him for proof that he would be sticking around. He replied that he had purchased a home in the area.  So… without further ado…

Meet Dr Nibley

William Nibley, M.D. William Nibley earned his doctorate in medicine from George Washington University School of Medicine in Washington, DC. He completed an internship and residency in internal medicine, followed by a fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Utah School of Medicine in Salt Lake City, UT. He is a former member of the Clinical Faculty at the University of Utah/Huntsman Cancer Institute. Dr. Nibley is past President of Utah Cancer Specialists and the Society of Utah Medical Oncologists. He holds professional affiliations with the American Society of Clinical Oncology and has served on their national Clinical Practice Committee. Dr. Nibley is board certified in medical oncology.

I used to refer to Dt Nibley as ‘Everybody’s Favorite Grandpa’  but then I realized, I’m probably the same age if not older.  He has a great sense of humor, which I adore about him and we get along great.

Along with Dr Nibley, I have established care with Nurse Practitioner. This is primarily due to Dr Nibley dividing his time between Idaho and Utah,  

Meet Sunita

Sunita Sigdel is a Hematology/ Oncology Nurse Practitioner with the Idaho Cancer Center. Originally from Nepal, Sunita worked as a Registered Nurse both in her home country and at EIRMC for twelve years before obtaining her Family Nurse Practitioner degree from Walden University. Sunita chooses to work with oncology patients because she finds it inspiring, rewarding, challenging and uplifting, all at the same time. She believes it is a privilege to build long-term relationships with patients and their loved ones, and values caring for patients during their cancer treatment. 

Don’t let the title of NP fool you, though. Sunita really knows her medical stuff and excels in reading of labwork - quickly finding ways to get my system back on track!

I first met Sunita in 2020 when she worked in Infusion, and I needed IV Antibiotics for some Wound Care. 

After about two and a half - three months, Dr Holt wanted to do some radiation on the spot on my lung.  

The decision was made that I would continue with IV Immunotherapy, buts stop the Oral Immunotherapy. 

Radiation went smoothly, and we (my care team) re-evaluated how all was going.  

It was decided that I would restart the Oral Immunotherapy.  But for some reason, this drug was now affecting me differently. Foods started tasting weird, and I had zero appetite.  Right before the holidays! That’s just not right!

I ate like a bird. Tiny portions. I prioritized getting proteins in my system above anything else. Made sure I had plenty of fluids daily. Ironically, the weight still clung to me as though the world was going to end if it slid off.  I was so frustrated!

Until next time… 

This week’s #WhenIDieMakeSureMyNailsAreDone