1 /5 Nicole Lee: BEWARE!
Im sure there are hundreds of women who have had positive experiences with Dr. Peterson, as he came recommended by almost everyone I asked. I honestly dont know why! He was aloof and seemed uncaring at almost every visit, but he was "the best on the island," so I went with him As my OB. About 2 months before my due date, I developed a hard spot in my breast. I told Dr. Peterson about it and his reply was "Its your milk coming in." He didnt look at the lump or even touch it! As a first time mom, I figured the "best doctor" knew what he was talking about. At each consequent visit for 2 months, I mentioned it to the doctor and nurse, and always got the same response. A few weeks before giving birth, I awoke with a terrible pain in my side. After a visit from EMS, I decided to forego the ER (pain had subsided) and call Dr. Peterson the next day. I was told it was the positioning of the baby. Fast forward... I gave birth, but still had the lump in my breast and pain in my side. For 2 days, the pain continued until at the urging of the neonatal nurse, an ultrasound was ordered. After a battery of scans, it was discovered that the lump in my breast was breast cancer that had metastasized to my liver, spine, and hip. The only thing I can remember Dr. Peterson (who became very caring at that point) saying was "Pregnant women dont get cancer." over and over. Well obviously they do, and after doing research, I read 1 in 3000 are diagnosed. It wouldve taken a few minutes, if not seconds, to check the lump. I dont know what would have been done differently and how it would have affected my pregnancy, but I do think that had Dr. Peterson showed even a little bit of concern, the cancer could have been found earlier and perhaps not have spread. Over a year later, I am still undergoing treatment for the cancer that has now spread to my brain. I realize mine is a special case that most women will not experience, but if you are looking for a doctor who will listen to and respond to your concerns, seek another doctor!
