August 9 , 2007

Before finding Dr. Kanayama I had been to 2 other reproductive/fertility specialists. Neither one left me with a clear understanding of exactly why I was experiencing such extreme pain each time I got my period and way I was not getting pregnant after trying for almost 2 years. All I knew was that I had Stage III endometriosis, large fibroid tumors, would need invasive surgery, and would be bed ridden for 6-8 weeks, after all this I would only have a 50% chance of getting pregnant naturally. I knew I wanted to do whatever was needed to eliminate these obstacles; however, I did not feel at ease with either of the doctors I had met. For someone like me, who had never been to a hospital being told I would be bed ridden for 6-8 weeks just did not sit right. Thankfully, my father came across the New York Endometriosis Center website and my mind was put at ease.

After my first visit with Dr. Kanayama I knew I had found my match. Finally, I was able to get some clear answers on how advanced my condition was. The surgery was to be less invasive with half the recovery time previously mentioned and my chances of getting pregnant naturally were increased to 75%! I felt as though the large dark cloud had finally been lifter, I had clarity as well as a doctor that I knew would not regard me as "a number". His sensitivity and willingness to sit and talk with me until I had grasped all that was needed was like no other. As I was leaving Dr. Kanayama's office on our final day of completing all the necessary tests and scheduling my surgery, he humbly turned to me and said: “Why don't we meet one more time before your surgery so we can just sit and talk. I am sure questions and concerns will come up between now and the surgery." A huge smile came to my face, as I held back the tears of joy.

My surgery was 12 days ago and the whole process could not have been any smoother. My endometriosis had spread significantly more than Dr. Kanayama anticipated but he still was able to get it all, as well as the numerous fibroid tumors. The care I received at Greenwich was top notch – naturally, I was scared but everyone put my fears to rest without even knowing it. The day after surgery I was up and walking and on my way home. Now I am looking forward to what lies ahead, a period of with much less pain and beginning my journey of getting pregnant. Dr. Kanayama feels this will happen before I know it; he has restored my faith in getting pregnant naturally!!!

Keari P.