One week to go, my hope, dreams, and fears

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dhs1963
dhs1963 Member Posts: 513
Hi,

In the early hours of May 1, I got the news from the ER Dr. that the CT scan showed there is nothing causing the pain, but there is a 6 cm mass on the kidney, that needs to be checked out.

I knew what it meant -- my dad and grandfather also had the mass. I assumes that the surgeon would want it out ASAP (I know I did). However, they are more concerned with long term health than short term anxiety, and since there is no change in the medical outcome by waiting for a while (a while meaning at least three months), my seven week wait is not too bad.

I am actually somewhat grateful for the delay, it allowed me to learn more about myself and the RCC.

There are things I do not like about the delay: sometimes, the area around the right kidney itches, burns, or hurts, Then, when the pain stops, I get sweaty and tired. This was going on before, but I assumed it was middle age (I am 48). Hopefully, that stops (the discomfort, not the middle age) after surgery.

There is a lot to do between now and next tuesday, but I can see the end. I put my faith in the Doctors, and assume they know what they are doing. I hope it has not metastasised (unlikely), and the laproscopic surgery is successful.

This has maid me realize that I will not be around forever. And there are some things I want to do before I die. But, I will have time to do them. I will be around for the solar eclipse on Aug 21, 2017. I will buy a convertible. I will travel to the places I want to go. There should be plenty of time.

This week, I just hope my Washington Nationals can crush the Evil NY Yankeess. I will be there Fri night.

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  • alice124
    alice124 Member Posts: 896 Member
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    DHS - Sounds like a healthy attitude, particularly the part about beating the Yankees!

    I'm guessing your doctors have reasons for the wait and watch attitude in this early stage of diagnosis. And since kidney cancer is usually slow growing, three months isn't all that long, particlarly since you have faith in your doctors. If you didn't have confidence in your docs, I'd say get another opinion, but that doesn't seem to be the case.

    So keep making those plans for all those things you want to do once the surgery is over. That way you'll kinda be looking forward to the surgery, so you can start on bucket list.