Deb Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 I think cancer is like the spanish inquisition.........no one expects it. I sure wasn't expecting to hear it when I had an ultrasound done on my thyroid this week. As some of you know, I have several nodules in my thyroid (well, if you can refer to 14 as "several") so I asked the tech if there were any new ones and the size of the older ones so I'd know if any of them had grown. She showed me a couple of new ones and then she tabbed back to the scan of the largest of the nodules. It's up to 3cm now but the thing that concerned her was the "snowstorm" of microcalcifications in the nodule. She said she'd get the results over to my doctor as quickly as possible. Microcalcifications in a thyroid nodule mean that the nodule is malignant. Its increase in size is also symptomatic. Ultrasounds are one way of diagnosing thyroid cancer and are 80% accurate. They'll be doing a biopsy on that nodule sometime soon (they haven't called me to schedule it yet) just to back it up but regardless of what the biopsy shows, the thyroid has got to go. It should have been removed two years ago when about 8 of those nodules hit the 2cm mark. The doctor said that the microcalcifications do indicate cancer and that she'd get me to a good surgeon as soon as they get the biopsy done. I'm really not worried about this. Honestly, I'm not. So I have cancer.......I have a lot of other things too and this is the first diagnosis I've had in a long time that actually has a chance of being cured! LOL! Every other diagnosis I've gotten in the past two years has resulted in a doctor telling me, "I'm sorry, but this is something that you'll have to learn to live with". Thyroid cancer has a pretty good cure rate so all in all, it could be a whole lot worse. The doctor hasn't discussed it with me yet but from what I've researched the course of treatment will be to completely remove the whole thyroid gland. Yay!! This thing is annoying and bulky and it's cutting off the blood flow to my brain. (and those things alone justify surgery to remove it as it should have been two years ago) I've had to deal with all that for a long time so getting this bulky thing out of me so I can breathe easier and feel better is something to look forward to. After the surgery there is a six week period with no thyroid suppliments to try to get as much of the hormone out of my system as possible and then a mega dose of radioactive iodine. Since only thyroid cells absorb iodine that's the best way to get the radiation to the source. And that's it. No chemo or anything else. I'll be tested frequently and if it comes back, they'll do another round of the radioactive iodine. Pretty cut and dried as I see it. That's best case scenario of course, but "best case" is what I'm counting on. The good news is that the microcalcifications only showed up in the one nodule and that means that it should be pretty well contained. I'm thinking positive that this is the way it's going to go and that I'll be cancer free so fast that I won't even remember that I had cancer in the first place. I have to admit that all this on top of everything else is a little overwhelming, but I'll deal with it. I still don't know about the rheumatoid arthritis for sure. My rhuematologist and my hand surgeon are arguing about it. <sigh> I wish they'd leave me out of their issues with each other. The hand surgeon says yes, the rheumatologist says no and my internist says she can't really help. She agrees that my hands look like I do but if the blood work says not, then the tissue biopsy is the only other way to know for sure because the blood tests don't always show it. Hmmmmmmm. I wonder if they can get a tissue biopsy when they're doing the thyroid surgery? Multi-tasking is a good thing! LOL! I'll have to ask them and see. Anyway, that's where we are right now. I probably gave y'all more information than you wanted but I'm trying to be very open with everyone about it. I'm not going to candy coat anything and I'll probably be telling a lot of bad jokes because even a dark sense of humor is good medicine. It's gonna be alright. Deb Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
genieDOLL Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 I wish you all the best in your health struggle, and admire your strength. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Beenie Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 With the positive attitude you have, I believe it will be alright too. will send caring healing vibes your way. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
pin1056 Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 positive attitude = great result :idea: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
woodland_miniatures Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Hugs, prayers, healing and strengthening thoughts are on their way. :idea: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
butlerestates Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 :idea: so sorry to hear this but your right at least it is an easy one to treat. I know several people who have had this and beat it. The "C" word is just scary to hear. Unfortunately it just seems to be getting more and more common. Hang in there! :lol: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
THmini2 Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 you have a wonderful attitude about all this. That will go a long way with fighting this. Hopefully they can get you in soon and do both biopsis at one time. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Jo Med Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Deb, I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis but very pleased to hear your positive rationale. My Mum had a similar diagnosis when she was in her late 50's. She had her thyroid removed, no radiotherapy or other treatment and she is now 89. She had no problems after surgery either. I hope they get your other problems sorted out as I know how debilitating constant pain can be. Supportive thoughts and wishes coming your way. Jo Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lynette Smith Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 :idea: I'm so sorry that this hardship has come your way. Clearly you have a clear picture of the situation and your attitude is great, a major factor in your recovery. I'll keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
what2craftnow Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 I'm sending positive, healing thoughts and hugs your way too Deb! :hug: I have known a couple people who had the same experience, and both came through it AOK, so am wishing the same for you! Better to have the bulky thing out, and besides, with names like "lobus dexter and lobus sinister" (wings of the thyroid) - who wants it anyway? :idea: :lol: Sounds a bit like, "good cop, bad cop" Hang in there!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Deb Posted December 1, 2009 Author Share Posted December 1, 2009 And don't forget the isthmus. Every time I hear someone say that, I automatically reply with "Bless you". Oooh, I thought of something! Now I know what kind of tattoo I should get!! Zippers!! One on each wrist and one around my neck. heheheheheheheheeheheee Deb Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lmgervais Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 What a great attitude you have! I'm sure the thyroid issue will all be over soon and that you will be better than ever and better able to deal with your other issues. :idea: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
champagne Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 With your wonderful outlook, that Cancer would be scared to stay there. You will do great!!!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Sherry Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 You're going to be ok. I too, have known several people who had this. One even had the surgery while pregnant! All are doing well, still. The doctor told the pregnant girl that this is one of the most easily cured cancers to have. We'll all be praying that they get it done and over with soon, as well as reaching some kind of consensus about the arthritis and how to treat it. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
wenlaine Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Deb, if there ever should come a day where I need to deal with a health issue, I'M CALLING YOU!!! What an amazing woman you are!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
heidiiiii Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Oooh, I thought of something! Now I know what kind of tattoo I should get!! Zippers!! One on each wrist and one around my neck. heheheheheheheheeheheee Deb hehehehehe Hey..i was thinking of doing that too. The zipper I mean. I am going to wait until I am completely healed before I have it done. You know how I feel so there needs no repeating..Hugs Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
justmesue Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 You have the best attitude, you'll be just fine! Hugs, prayers and warm wishes for a speedy recovery headed your way! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Monica_the_haunted Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Oh Deb!! I love your attitude with this diagnosis but, I'm still sad to hear you have yet another ailment. Cancer is one of those things that you really do need your positive outlook on. I'm so glad to hear this one is particularly easy to do away with. (((BIG HUGS)))) to you!! Tons of positive thoughts sending your way girlie! Monica Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Esther Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Deb, I love your positivity! When I got my diagnosis 13 years ago, I bawled for a week, but then, the only exposure to people with cancer that I'd had at the time was when my Grandpa died when I was 9. To me at that time, cancer equaled death. Today, that isn't the case. Thank God for the advances in medicine that we have today! I'm putting you on my prayer list, Deb. {{{hugs}}} Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Shy Spirit Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Deb, you are a truly remarkable woman. :idea: We're so very fortunate to have you in our midst. My ex sister-in-law had the surgery years ago, and is doing just fine. My neighbour also had it done, with no problems. You will do very well, I'm sure. Actually, I'm surprised Cancer had the nerve to enter your body! All the little Deb cells must be giving it a good thrashing just about now! Looking at this as a good thing (because it can be treated and cured) may signal the start of a turning trend. The pendulum has swung too far, for too long. The return swing should be swift and steady. The doctors will be handing out good news on all fronts! Yes, I'm babbling ... but I think you know what I'm trying to say. Candles burning; healing energy is on the way! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Starfire Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 I wish the very best for a super gutsy lady. Sending lots of positive thoughts and best wishes. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Anna Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Ohhh, well being away for a few days and not checking in here certainly gives one a jolt... Sweetie, love the zipper idea :idea: and we'll be sure to be around to kick that C-buster in the butt in no time!!! Sending hugs and healing thoughts your way!!! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LLyn M. Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 This is a sad DX......but very do-able.And of coarse your sense of humor and positive attitude keeps US going too!!Still, sending many happy thoughts and wishes your way!! Take care....... :idea: Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Lisa R. Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 Gosh Deb, you are amazing. I hope all goes well for you. You are an inspiration. Lisa R. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
LPCullen Posted December 1, 2009 Share Posted December 1, 2009 You and yours are in my thoughts and prayers Deb... Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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