Rehnquist and I have something in common now.

[Skidmore]

We both have a diagnosis of thyroid cancer. This may be better posted to the Lounge, but I tend to post to GD and Politics mostly. Yesterday I had a biopsy and I have a >2.0 cm tumor in the left lobe of my thyroid and one <1.0 cm in the right lobe. On the 25th of April, I will have a thyroid ectomy to be followed by a radiation treatment in a few weeks.

On the one had, I understand that this type of cancer is treatable and survival rates are good. On the other hand, I'm scared. Both of my parents and one brother have died from cancer--none from thyroid cancer. I'm not ready to die yet, I'm not finished living. I have another grandbaby coming in July and my veggie garden needs to be planted yet. And I have 3 flower borders that I prepared last fall for planting this spring.

[Dookus]

1. I'm sorry to hear that, Skidmore

I wish you the very best. And I think you'll have plenty of time to spend with the new grandbaby.

It must be terribly jarring to get such news, but don't despair. Believe it or not, there are worse diagnoses.

Again, best wishes.

[smurfygirl]

2. I'm so sorry skid

I can only imagine how scary this must all seem. Luckily it is treatable. Have you asked the doctor if there are any support groups around. It would probably help to have others around you that can explain what they went through to ease your mind a bit.

Just keep thinking like you are, nothing like grandbabies and ripe tomatoes to keep you going. And just remember, DU is always open when you can't deal with the unknown.

[Swamp Rat]

3. I'll be thinking about you Skidmore and hoping for the best.

:hug:

[Bluebear]

4. I am wishing nothing but restoration to health and happiness for you

Best of luck through the ectomy and radiation. To have a diagnosis like this of course scares you, and I hope you will come here often to vent and say hello.

From:
http://healthinfo.healthgate.com/GetContent.aspx?token=1d537d68-21b9-492d-8709-ca854fdf1337&chunkiid=32812

"Caught early, thyroid cancer is very treatable, and survival rates are almost 100%."

DO let us know how are are, OK?

[asjr]

5. That is news no one wants to hear. But it is treatable and

you will survive. I hear the positive attitude. Keep that going. Good luck.

[Bunny]

6. Gosh, that's some piece of news, isn't it?

I'm sorry to hear it. But it sounds very treatable, so that's encouraging. I hope things go well and you're feeling better soon. :hug:

[housewolf]

7. Oh Skidmore, I'm so sorry to hear your news

Such sad, sad news, I am so sorry.

There is not much that one can say that will release your fear, but let me ask - do you trust your doctor? Do you believe that he/she is telling you the truth and giving you all the information you need, being upfront about the odds, outlined a course of treatment that makes sense to you, treats you like an adult and partner in your treatment? Positive answers to those questions might help you have some confidence.

Rehnquist has a rare form of thyroid cancer, the other form being quite common and treatable. These days a diagnosis of cancer is not the death sentence it used to be when the odds were not as good as they are now. You'll just need to take it a day at a time now. Know that you have a nasty period ahead of you and times when you won't feel well. Be gentle with yourself, treat yourself very well and do things that give you pleasure and laughter. Watch comedy movies and laugh as much as possible. No matter what your situation, you still have much joy ahead.

[July]

8. Sending good vibes, Skidmore.

I'm sorry you're dealing with this. We'll be thinking of you and hoping your surgery is quick and successful. Let us know how you're doing.

[seabeyond]

9. what a post skidmore.

will be thinking of you. get out and do that garden, enjoy your gradnbaby. live life. hope you are well thru treatment. all are here for you

[woofless]

10. I'll hold you in my thoughts.

Be positive and visualize a good outcome. You can do it. We'll be here if you need us.

Woof

[wicket]

11. I am so sorry to hear that Skidmore

You are in my thoughts- you can beat this!!! :hug:

[EFerrari]

12. Sending you this light, Skidmore.

I see your flowers blooming.

B.

[Iterate]

13. Best wishes for you

My sister just finished therapy after thyroid cancer and is looking for work again now. She heard, as I'm sure you're are hearing, how treatable it is, but she also found that the treatment and recovery manageable. Her main complaint was feeling tired, but now she's feeling better than she has in years. So I'll bet July finds you holding a new grandchild in one arm and fresh flowers in the other.

[DeepModem Mom]

14. A relative of mine was treated for thyroid cancer many years ago...

and is going strong today (well past seventy), with no ill effects. I wish you the very best, and I rejoice with you in the good life you enjoy.