Great news Sentinella! It's so wonderful to hear the success stories. You didn't mention your hand - how is it doing? I was reading your previous posts and you mentioned how smoothly it went with your insurance. What insurance do you have and would you mind recounting how you approached them - it would be really helpful to me since that is the point I am at. I'm probably going to Germany for treatment but may change my mind and go to OU instead. I sent Dr. S in Germany photos of my hand and feet last weekend but haven't gotten a response yet - I'm sure I will soon. I spoke to OU a few days ago and they were nice enough to send me the insurance codes that they use. The next step is pre-authorization with CIGNA.

Diane, Thank You very much. I have Regence Blue Shield. I found out the medical codes, then called my insurance company and asked them if they would pay for these procedures (medical codes). That gave me the green light to go further. I went to a hand doctor, she was 100% against radiation, said I would get cancer from it. Well from the research I did I knew that was BS, the chance is so slight, it is worth the risk to me. I would rather be able to walk/run and enjoy life than allow this dreaded disease take anymore away from me. I have a very good running friend who also happens to be a doctor. I went to him and told him I wanted radiation on my hand and feet. At first he was against it until I told him that I have done a lot of research on this and he should too. He read the information I gave him and called me a week or so later, he even found the radiation clinic that performed my treatments. The doctor at the clinic had me come in a week later. I actually didn't have to pay a dime out of my pocket since my wife paid the deductible for treatments earlier in the year. For me it was a no-brainer, no out of pocket expenses, a 45 minute drive from home, and a very good doctor that really cares about making the right choices for his patients.

My hand doesn't ache anymore, at all. The lump has shrunk a little and I have absolutely no contraction. I am very happy with how all three appendages turned out. I can live with a bump in the middle of my hand. I really wanted the lumps in my feet to diminish and they did so it was a success.

I was lucky enough to catch this very early on. If it had been another year or two I might not have been so fortunate, I don't know I'm not a doctor. I think you should do what you think is best for you, health first, then money. If I had the time and money I probably would have went to Germany, I'm glad I didn't now because the result couldn't be any better. Of course time will tell.

Terry