It's Cancer

I had the biopsy on Monday, and saw the oncology surgeon again on Wednesday.  Its thyroid cancer. (y'all have no idea how glad I am that it isn't lymphoma!!!)

I'm having a MRI today - they want a better look at the tumor.  Evidently there is a type of media storage for CTs, Xrays, etc. called "PAX" or "PAKS" - whatever - that can be enlarged or zoomed in and out to get a better look at these types of diagnostic test films. The hospital where I had the CT doesn't use  that, so the films were too small for the doctors to study, so that's why they've ordered the MRI.

I'm going to Alaska tomorrow and will be gone for a week as planned. While I'm gone, the doctors will work up the plan for surgery and will present my case to the tumor board (this is a teaching hospital). I got the impression it was an unusual case because the tumor is really quite large and none of the other films (sonogram, CT) looked like the thyroid was involved.

The plan so far is that I'll see the doctors again on the 26th to have the pre-op consult and I'm already scheduled for surgery on October 4th to remove the tumor and the thyroid. They say it will be a lengthy surgery because of the structure of the neck (voice box, nerves, major vessels and the carotid artery). They will probably give a dose of radioactive iodine to find stray cancer cells elsewhere in the body, and if they are there, (and if the pathology on the tumor & lymph nodes shows more cancer) the type of chemotherapy is a radioactive medication that targets only thyroid cancer cells. 

This is a very treatable, curable type of cancer to have.  I am going to beat it.  I am so relieved to know what it is, and I'm going to get well, and the tumor will be out of my neck!!!  yay!

Will post more later, but wanted to share the news and ask for some prayers and positive thoughts from anyone who is inclined to do so.  And please pray for my husband; he is devastated and doesn't yet have the faith that all will be ok.  I need him to find the strength to fight this with me.  Thanks, y'all.

Comments

[Daphne]

Hi,
I was just googling, looking for raw edged flower quilt block patterns and I happened upon your blog. I just couldn't leave without sending you my heartfelt support and prayers. My sister just had 1/3 of her kidney removed from cancer. She is doing great, I couldn't believe how well she recovered. I wish the best for you!
Hugs,
Daphne

[Jen Anderson]

Positive thoughts and prayers coming your way! It is a shock when you find out you have cancer, but lots of us come through just fine. Jen

[Michelle (Momof11)]

Hi Jeri!
I was sorry to hear of your cancer,and of course will be keeping you in my prayers. A friend's DIL had thyroid cancer last year...quite treatable. She's fine now. Medicine has come a long, long way from the day when a diagnoss of cancer was a death sentence. My mom just had surgery yesterday for breast cancer and we're waiting for the pathology report to see if any further treatment will be needed.

[Deb Hardman]

So why don't you call me this weekend. I'm in the book!

[Jhoni]

I will pray for you and your husband. Your attitude about this is wonderful! You can beat it!!!
(((Hugs)))
Jhoni

[caroline]

All best wishes to you, Jeri. and also to your husband. Intuitively speaking? I don't at all feel that you'll be leaving. You will indeed beat this quite thoroughly.
big hugs, chica...

[Kathie]

From one bodacious beauty to another:
Enjoy your time in Alaska and have a great time with your son. Best wishes and prayers for your quick recovery from surgery. Prayers for hubby too.

Kathie

[Laura (your old NYB bud)]

Lots of hugs and good wishes to you Jeri!

[Teresa]

Your attitude is the best to beat this. Have a great time in Alaska and tackle this when you get back.

[Teri]

Hi Jeri,
I hope that you know that I think a lot of you, and I will pray for your quick recovery. Have a safe trip to!!

[Karen151]

Keeping you in my prayers Jeri.This is very treatable and have seen a few patients who have had it do very well.The tumor board should come up with the best treatment plan for you.Many wise healers are on them.

[Maree (Luthien) - One of the Beauties]

Big hugs Jeri! Great attitude. You'll whip this
~Maree

[PeeWee]

Keep your chin up Jeri! Big hugs, and I will be thinking many positive thoughts for you. Take care!

[DebGeyer]

I'll be praying, for you and your husband!

[Paula]

I'm so sorry to hear of your cancer. You and your family are in my prayers.