Some bad news.

[playahata1]

I have been diagnosed with cervical cancer. After years of problems with my menstrual cycle -- via an ultrasound and two biopsies, I got the test results yesterday, and they showed a malignancy.

Tomorrow I visit an oncologist, and we will go from there. All I know is that I am not ready to go yet; I have too damn much I need and want to do with my life. I am 36 years old and would like to make it 37 and beyond. Your prayers, energies, and good vibes are mmost certainly appreciated at this time -- and more than ever (and I've got my blood family and friends behind me 100 percent).

If you don't hear back from me in the next few days or so, it is because I will be getting myself together, and I will not have access to e-mail during this period. Love to all of you, my DU family. Peace.

Robin

[GOPisEvil]

1. Oh no!!! You've got your DU family behind you 100% too.

Best wishes, and keep us posted on your PROGRESS! :hug:

[Dogmudgeon]

2. Good luck

--bkl

[eyesroll]

3. Oh, wow, I'm sorry

:hug:

Please know my thoughts are with you.

[mac56]

4. My prayers and best thoughts are with you.

I hope the oncologist has good recommendations. Get a second opinion if you need to.

Good luck, Robin.

[CatWoman]

Robin --

hugs all around

:grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

I most certainly will pray for you.

:loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya: :loveya:

I'm so sorry to hear this..............

[RebelOne]

5. I'm sending good karma and healing vibes your way.

Hope your visit to the oncologist goes well.

[bobthedrummer]

6. My wife is a cancer survivor

you will be too.

[trof]

39. Mine too.

Malignant melanoma over a year ago.
Clean as a whistle now.
All the best to playahata1

[Richardo]

7. So sorry, Robin

Wishing you peace and strength...

:grouphug:

[SOteric]

8. My prayers and best wishes

for you and your loved ones are with you. This is a struggle, but you won't face it alone. We're here. :hug:

[EstimatedProphet]

9. Keep heart

Remember what you yourself said-you're not ready to go yet.
Don't. Beat this instead.

[areschild]

10. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

Sending positive vibes your way.

[FunBobbyMucha]

11. A big spiritual pick-me-up bouquet is on its way right now.

36 is a highly treatable age. Hopefully it was caught in its early stages. Chemo, etc, is far more palatable than it was even a decade ago. All things you'll hear but all true as well. XO Robin.

[Rowdyboy]

12. I'm so glad you have family and friends

with you and behind you. You have them here too. You never know just how many lives you touch in passing by...God bless, you'll be in my heart.

[mr_hat]

13. Kind thoughts and best wishes from here.

[zbird]

14. Big hugs to you playahata1.

Gather yourself together and get ready to fight. Good vibes being sent your way. Good luck.

[Lars39]

15. Good thoughts/wishes coming your way !

Will keep you in my thoughts. :hug:

[ewagner]

16. So sorry to hear this

Thoughts and prayers are with you

:hug:

[Bertha Venation]

17. best wishes

:hug: You are in my prayers.

[hlthe2b]

18. So sorry to hear that, but stay strong...

you'll get through this. We'll keep you in our thoughts and prayers.
Best wishes.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

19. That must be devastating, but

Cervical cancer is NOT an automatic death sentence!

And know that we DUers are here praying and sending positive vibes.

:loveya:

[silverlib]

20. Prayers, wishes, positive thoughts...

whatever you need, we're with you all the way. please update us.

May peace and serinity lead you on this one -

[caledesi]

21. Robin - same thing happened to me at age 30 and I am still

around at 56! You will make it through this. Make sure you go to the best. I mean a "cancer center" because they have "super-oncologists" and see cases like yours probably all the time - that's all they do.

Did you have a biopsy yet to determine what stage? That's a tough one, but I think you should find out.

Mine occurred in 1980 and much has been done since then. Don't panic yet.

I know the uncertainty is harrowing - it's all you can think about, right? Same here when it happened to me.

Good karma to you.
Alicia

[Insider]

22. best wishes and spiritual support

all the way. we are all with you. we can do it together, one day at a time. my mom is a twenty-year survivor also.

stay in touch when you can. :grouphug:

[madrchsod]

23. well that kin`a

puts most of our petty bitching around here in perspective,doesn`t it boys and girls? you are to dam young ..good luck,we`ll all be pulling for your recovery...

[prolesunited]

24. I can't imagine

how scared and alone you must be feeling right now, but you are a strong fighter. You'll pull through this, I'm sure, especially with all of the support that you have.

We're all here for you when you need us! :grouphug:

[Rainbowreflect]

25. You are in my prayers.

I am sending you healing, loving energy. :loveya:
You will fight this & win. :hug:
I don't know how you feel about alternative medicine, but this site has wonderful visualization CDs & tapes including ones dealing with cancer.
http://www.healthjourneys.com/
Please keep us informed.

[LZ1234]

27. My prayers are with you...

I am so sorry - what a shock it must have been to receive news like that. I pray for excellent care and results for you.

[CO Liberal]

26. Hang In There, Robin

You're one of the family here at DU. And any time you need us, we;ll be here for you.

Wishing you all the best,

Wayne
(CO Liberal)

[Hell Hath No Fury]

28. Cervical cancer...

is one of the "better" (if you can say that) cancers for a woman to have. It is the most treatable and survivable of the women's cancers. I have known many gals who have been diagnosed with it, been treated, and are doing just fine many years later.

When you have the time and energy, do your research -- I know it will help your peace of mind.

All the best --

Hell

[Snow]

33. Your friendly board epidemiologist seconds that comment -

this is pretty scary, and going to involve some work at treatment, but the oncologists have gotten pretty darn good at treating this one. You'll be okay.

[Hell Hath No Fury]

42. I kind of liken it to...

the gal's version of prostate cancer. If you hear the word "cancer", you wanna hear "cervical" or "prostate" before it.

It's still scary, it's still gonna be tough, but your chances are damn good you're going to still be with us when it is all over. :)

[slackmaster]

29. Best of luck to you with the oncologist

Please keep us posted.

[myrna minx]

30. My best wishes are with you.

We are here for you. :loveya:

[Mz Pip]

31. My thoughts

are with you. Good luck in your recovery, because recover you will. :grouphug:

MzPip
:dem:

[radwriter0555]

32. You'll be FINE! Get that thing taken out, maybe an hysterectomy..

maybe some meds, you will make a complete recovery.

You caught it early, you've been diligent and you will indeed make a full 'recovery'.

A positive attitude is what wins the day.

[Melsky]

34. Sending healing vibes your way

[latebloomer]

35. Stay positive!

My girlfriend had the same diagnosis, about 8 years ago and I believe she had her cervix removed. She then had a special operation that enabled her to carry a baby. She is doing wonderfully.

Love and Light to you-

lb

[jimbo fett]

36. From a cancer survivor - you're not alone. Get strength from others.

I couldn't have made it through my fight with cancer without the spiritual help of others.

[nothingshocksmeanymore]

37. Please keep us posted

You will be in our prayers. Hopefully, this will be able to be remedied surgically and with a minimum of pain and suffering for you.

Sending you hugs. What a horrible piece of news to hear.

We are behind you. ((((((((((((HUGS)))))))))

[MissMillie]

38. My prayers are with you

Robin, what I'm hearing is that you're faced w/ a challenge and that you're going to fight. I'll pray for strength for you.

Please know that we are here for you, whatever you need.

[populistmom]

40. Thinking of you

My thoughts and prayers go out to you for a comfortable and speedy recovery. :hug:

[soleft]

41. Your spirit is very strong!!

Energies and good vibes away! I wish you much courage, strenth, love and peace!

Lori

[Skittles]

43. I AM THINKING OF YOU ROBIN

YOU WILL BEAT THIS.

[cally]

44. We are all here for you!

I hope you hear more positive news from the oncologist. My sister had cancer and was told she only had a year or so to live. It's now been 13 years. I know she had a difficult time talking to those closest to her, so please share your concerns here. I want to celebrate your 37th birthday so please post on your happy day. Many prayers and hugs are coming your way. :grouphug:

[KamaAina]

45. Aaaaaaaaaa! The scream you hear is NOT Howard Dean.

It's just me, not at all ready to lose my brand-new friend. As you well know, I don't always get to make that many in the first place.

[SammyWinstonJack]

46. Stay strong

:hug:

[nini]

47. strength to you..

Hopefully, it will be caught early and treatable.

I know 2 women who beat it.. you can. Stay strong.


:hug:

[geniph]

48. I sincerely hope

there are no metastases, and that your prognosis is positive. Cervical cancer is very treatable if it hasn't metastasized.

Best of luck to you; hoping for all the best.

[TXlib]

49. KCDem and I will be keeping you in our thoughts

[commander bunnypants]

50. Good Karma Robin

stay strong we love you.


Jon

[camero]

51. I'll be 37 in May...come join me.

Fight it with everything you got. My prayers are with you.

[rbnyc]

52. Sorry to hear that...best of luck to you.

You can and will get through this. It's scary, but I know many survivors. Luck, Love, Stregnth, Power, Joy, and Much Support to you!

[LuLu550]

53. Robin, prays are with you!

I had cervical cancer many years ago...actually the same age as you are now. I am now 53. If they catch it really early, it is 100% curable! My friend had a more advanced stage, and she, too is doing fine after 7 years.

Hang in there and know your DU friends are with you. Send me a private message if you want more information on what I went through with it.

on edit: I had stage 1 cancer and did not have to have a hysterectomy...they only removed a part of the cervix...I did not want more children afterwards so I never tried, but it is my understanding they can fix you so you can have kids.

[Lizz612]

54. Good vibes to you!

:hug:
We all KNOW you can beat this! And you will!

[arwalden]

55. My thoughts are with you.

I have every confidence and hope that the treatment option/s you choose will be successful. Take care of yourself.

-- Allen

[SoCalDem]

56. Fingers crossed for you....

I have known MANY cervical cancer survivors.. I'll add YOU to that list :hug:

[bif]

57. Get well

Emitting positive thoughts from Motown.

[Lindsey]

58. Prayer, thoughts,

good vibes, and healing energy going your way - Robin. peace

[PopSixSquish]

59. Godspeed Robin

You're in my prayers

[Zomby Woof]

60. Your heart and character will prevail

My best wishes and good thoughts always your way... Please know we are all here for you.

[welshTerrier2]

61. A Great Cancer Resource

call 800-4-Cancer ... the phones are staffed by the National Cancer Institute ... the people there are very well trained and absolutely fantastic ...

last year my mom was diagnosed with lung cancer ... her surgeon gave her a choice of two different types of operations ...

i called the NCI and they spent over an hour on the phone with me discussing the best course of treatment ... it was very comforting to be provided with so much expert information ... and things worked out great with my mom ...

i hope for the best of luck for you ... keep your energy level as high as you can ... all your fellow DU'ers are rooting for you !!!

also check this website for publications and additional info:
http://www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo

[put out]

62. I had it, too.

Diagnosed in 1985. Some surgery on my cervix and topical chemical ointment. Had a baby (YEA!) in 1989. A little clean-up surgery in 1992. Really good since then. This thing you have is very treatable.

Please consider that it may have been caused by a virus. Ask someone you feel you can trust if this might be a factor.

Still going strong, here. You will be, too, soon. Good and caring thoughts your way, from someone who received many herself.

[Lostmessage]

63. Your in my prayers

:grouphug:

[Pithlet]

64. Sending you many positive vibes.

That's scary news. Please keep in touch, and know that you always have us here at DU as well as your family and friends.

[meti57b]

65. May g-d bless you. Hugs and wishes for a fast recovery.

Hang in there!

[REP]

66. Went Through The Same Thing 13 Years Ago at 26

Went from severely dysplasic to malignant in a few weeks. I was lucky - lost most of my cervix but kept everything else (it was growing very fast, but hadn't penetrated very deep). At first they had me sign consent forms for two different types of hysterectomy and had me store my own blood for the surgery, but as I said, I was lucky. I was also lucky in that my lesions actually hurt and that's what got me to the doctor.

Good luck.

[Catshrink]

67. Sorry to hear your news -- we are with you Robin

Please know that your DU family is with you. Please keep us up to date on your situation. Keep fighting!

[area51]

68. playahata1

My thoughts are with you. I hope the cancer can be eradicated completely and you will have a complete recovery.

[Pale Blue Dot]

69. Good luck!

I'm 35 and I don't think that I could face a similar situation with the amount of courage that you're showing. I'm sure that you will be just fine.:grouphug:

[flamingyouth]

70. Sending you love and positive energy

You will be strong and please keep us posted, Robin. I'm so sorry to hear of this. But I know so many women who have survived cancer like this - including one woman I knew in college. She was only 18 when she was diagnosed and has been cancer-free for almost 20 years and has three children.

I know you probably aren't looking for a lot of recommendations now, but when I was diagnosed with a chronic illness, I read "Spontaneous Healing" by Dr. Andrew Weil and found it very inspiring and helpful.

I wish you all the best in the world and keep checking in with us when you can. Big :hug: to you!

[brook]

71. Another one of your DU family here...

sending positive thoughts, prayers and cyberhugs to you, Robin. Lean on us. xxoo

[Obamarama]

72. My mom had cervical cancer more than thirty years ago...

And she's still going strong!

I am also a cancer survivor myself so I know what you're experiencing right now. It's scary at first, but after the inital shock wears off it gets a little easier. Be good to yourself and give yourself some space. You're going to be experiencing a lot of emotions.

After you have your bearings, educate yourself on your type of cancer. Ask questions, research on the Internet, research at the library, find out the best protocols for treating your type of cancer, and don't be afraid to challenge your doctor if you don't agree or are not comfortable with how he wants to treat you.

PM if you need to talk to someone who has been through the cancer song and dance.

Godspeed and best of luck!

[alwynsw]

73. Prayers here, Robin.

Wishing you the best outcome possible - a full recovery and a long, happy life.

[WillyT]

74. Huge Hugs, And Good Vibes, From Me !!!

Keep as positive as you can.

We're all rootin for ya.

:loveya:

[leftofthedial]

75. our best wishes are with you

my sister is a cancer survivor. Be strong.

[Matilda]

76. I know it's easy to say, but keep positive.

People can and do recover, and I truly believe that lots of good
vibes from people who care really do help. I've read the replies,
and there's lots of good energy out there, so you keep your head
up, and lots of good luck to you.

[snobird]

77. Positive Energy

Robin good, positive, strong, energy coming your way. Hugs & Prayers

[Ramsey]

78. I'm an oncologist

I specialize in gynecologic cancers.

PM me if you have any questions.

[Susang]

79. My hubby and I are so behind you!

You just concentrate on getting well and don't let anyone get you down or give you shit. This is all about you, so don't let anything tell you otherwise. :loveya:

Come to DU for support and encouragement, we're always here for you and want to help in any way we can. :grouphug:

[MinnFats]

80. Whew. That does suck (not to be flippant.)

A good friend,as well as an acquaintance, are cervical cancer survivors and damn near good as new.
listen carefully, get all the information you can, maybe get a second opinion, stay away from quack medicine.....it will be difficult but you will be ok.

by the way, if someone says 'I know just what you're going through," and they have not had the same thing, you are pretty much authorized to punch them, but you may wish to hold back as they're just trying to be helpful.

Same for "God never gives us more than we can handle."


Someone said that to me at the visitation service for my little brother.
I said, "You mean if I was a weaker person my brother wouldn't have died?"

What I mean is, you get to say what ever you feel like saying now, so use it!

[calimary]

81. Here are some prayers! God bless you and keep you and heal you!

I am so sorry to hear that. We will ALL be pulling for you, and lighting green candles (for healing and renewal).

[bubblesby2002]

82. Sending good chi your way

and good vibrations

[VOX]

83. Another cancer survivor here. Tip: Research the hell out of it!

The beast you face is not nearly as fearsome if you know its face and name -- try to learn as much as you can about the nature of the cancer, your medical options, etc. Talking with other patients who've undergone treatment is a good thing, too.

Regardless of the magnitude of the emotion you are experiencing right now, remember that you have *NOT* been handed a death sentence!

The fact that you have been monitored for some time (which I take to mean that early detection has occurred) is a big plus for you.

Reaching out is the best thing that you can do right now -- support is crucial for your spirit. It's great that your family and friends are there for you.

I am sending many good thoughts your way -- hang in there on this difficult path -- and keep us posted when you can.

:hug:

[Sapphocrat]

84. Major prayers, energies, and good vibes...

All of the above, in fact, that California can muster!

[Norbert]

85. Thoughts and prayers your way.

My mother beat breast cancer and my brother beat Hodgkins.

You have the right attitude with this, Robin, and many good people here and your family and friends pulling for you. That in itself is a very good combination to fight this thing. You'll beat this too, I'm sure.

Keep us posted.

[ulysses]

86. another survivor here

You can do it, Robin. Keep us looped and let us know if we can do anything to help.

[salin]

87. Prayers sent your way

You have way too much to keep offering us (the crazy world)... and need much more time to do so. Best wishes, fingers crossed, sending energy and prayers, and some extra energy to help cope with the anxiety that accompanies learning such news.

[OldEurope]

88. I send to you:

:hug: to help you the next days,
O8) to help you during the medication,
and: :loveya: to make you smile, wich helps best

[Tripper11]

89. As a cancer survivor I send my most positive vibes your way.

playahata1 I am 14 months post stem-cell transplant after having been diagnosed with Acute Myloid Leukemia in June of 2002.

I know the exact, or most of them, feelings you are going through. The thoughts etc. and you will get past it. At least I hope you will.

The intial being told part is the worst. Once you get to see your oncologist and a plan is set, you need to buckle down and get ready to work hard and stay as positive as you can.

Feel free to PM me or repsond here if you need anything.

Good luck and stay strong.

Peace.

[TNOE]

90. Good Luck Robin

My thoughts and prayers are definitely with you. Be positive - and be sure to take lots of vitamins AND minerals.

[GoddessOfGuinness]

91. You have all my hopes...

prayers, and lots of cyber-hugs~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[bigwillq]

92. My thoughts are with you

My friend went through it about three yrs. ago. For her, they caught it in the earliest stage ans she's fine. Keep the faith and stay strong.