I can remember April twelve, 1999 like it was yesterday. My new family physician called and said, “I need you to come in for another blood test. I found something and i need to be sure. ”

Let me clarify - for me, this ‘new’ family physician was essentially the first doctor I had seen since my move to Toronto from the US in 1981, completely sixteen years before. I did not feel any necessity to see a physician. The real reason I made this appointment was because my dad requested it. Allegedly his doctor found something in him that might be genetically passed down to his boys. So my 2 bros and I dutifully ran off to consult a medical practitioner if only to put our dad’s mind at ease.

When You see a physician It’s Either good news or Bad News

Only one day after submitting my 2nd blood test, Dr. Kerlow called again and announced, “The results have been confirmed. I need you to come in so we can discuss the implications. It’s urgent. Are you able to come in this afternoon? ”

Now I am not one to fret, but these words from Dr. Kerlow sure aroused my curiosity. At age 45, I prided myself on being in better shape than lots of men my age. In fact , most people usually guessed my age to be in the low 30’s. Come on now, there wasn’t any reason for me to fret. And the way that I was feeling, surely I didn’t have to consult a doctor.

When I appeared at my appointment, Dr. Kerlow greeted me with a warm, friendly grin. Yet I could sense a gravity in his gaze, almost as if he wished he didn’t have to supply this message. He started, “I have good news for you. We did the screening and you can tell your pa that he hasn’t got to worry. ”

“However… ” he continued.

The period between that word and the subsequent looked interminable. Indeed, it had been a moment frozen in eternity.

“both of your blood tests realize that you have CLL - Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. From the looks of things, you have had it for some considerable time now as it has advanced into what we call stage two… ”

For the next fifteen minutes or so , Dr. Kerlow explained the meaning of my blood test results. He discussed the prognosis, mentioning varied statistical data of other people with my same condition. He concluded with a recommended plan, inspiring me to go home and talk it over with my family before taking another step.

Your Life May Change When You consult a medical expert

My life actually modified the day I took my dad’s advice to see a medical expert. As is generally the case, I went thru all the gears, from disbelief to denial, wrath to acceptance. Today, almost eleven years after, I’m happy to report the CLL is in order. Actually my white blood cell counts are basically improving, much to my oncologist’s surprise.

I still see a doctor - 2, in reality Dr. Kerlow and Dr. Chiarotto, my oncologist - on a constant basis. While my health is often good, there remains some minor issues. My wife Maggie would like me to see a medical practitioner whenever any small thing comes up. I resist.

And that is the point of my sharing this story with you today. Why don’t people would like to see a doctor on a more regular basis, especially if there are symptoms that might indicate bigger underlying Problems? There are a few Louisville doctors, Newark doctors and Norfolk doctors that will help you out.

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