CSN ~ What It Means To Me.....Share Your Story

Skiffin16
Skiffin16 Member Posts: 8,305 Member
edited September 2012 in Head and Neck Cancer #1
I've been thinking about this lately, and myself and some close survivor/caregiver friends have been discussing these same things.

What CSN Means To Me
CSN is a place that I find comfort in... I can vent, I can share, I can throw out things in my life that are cancer related, survivor related, or just life after treatment.... CSN is a place that I find comfort discussing these things. I can discuss them with others that are, have or will be going through. Things that unless you have been there, done that....you just totally don't get it.

We are a community, we are family.

How Has CSN Helped Me
The survivors & caregivers in this community have helped me get through this battle. Even though it has now been over three years, going on four since I heard the words, "You have cancer"....

You have helped me and lifted me when I was down. You have allowed me to lift you when you were down.

It's an outlet to let our emotions flow. To share with others that know exactly where you are coming from, where you are going, where you have been...

It's a community unlike no other I have every been a part of... It's a Family.

CSN also helps me, by giving me the opportunity to help others... Those just starting out, some mid-stream, even some as myself a few (or more) years out from treatment.

What Keeps Me Here
Sometimes I think about that myself...

Mostly, I'm pretty sure that all of you keep me here. Sharing stories, support, and the time and knowledge that I have gained from having cancer myself.

Having cancer is an education, non like any that I have encountered before.

I've come from January 2009, first hearing that I have cancer. Thinking of pale, frail , no haired people that eventually wither away and die....

Boy was I ever wrong... technology is awesome, modern medicine is great...and people, well myself and you guys/ladies.... I have never seen anyone with the will to live, battle, win and survive as we.

I love sharing my experience, giving hope, a dab of abi-normal humor...and my life after cancer and treatment.....

Hopefully making the journey easier in some small way...

Giving back...in my way.

I want to personally thank The American Cancer Society (ACS), and the Cancer Survivors Network for having this site up and running, and to allow me to do all of things I mentioned above.

Lastly, I want to thank Greta, the lady behind the scene on CSN... without Greta this great community would have never come about, or lasted as long as it has.... Hoping that CSN stays here for many years....

Share your story.....

Best,
John
«1

Comments

  • VanessaSLO
    VanessaSLO Member Posts: 283
    Powerful words!
    Thank you, John, for sharing this with us! You made me cry.. in a positive way :)).

    I'm an European but I feel so close to CSN and this board which is helping me and my family to cope with my dad's illness. People like you who still stay on this sites are like angels caring us in your hands through rough times.

    God bless you, John with long, healthy and prosperous life!

    Vanessa
  • osmotar
    osmotar Member Posts: 1,006
    Here
    John,

    I couldn't have said it better. Like others I'm sure when we were first diagnosed , I went what the hell...I had never been affected in my life or my immediated family with cancer, much less someone telling I had cancer of the tonsil. I went to the Internet and started to read, omg talk about doom and gloom , it scared the holy hoot out of me. I went to the American Cancer Society website and I found CSN, what a godsend to find the H&N group, what an amazing band or warriors. While I have a great family and friends support group, the folks here have become like extended family...the comfort I find in knowing I can say , ask, or comment on any subject brought up is amazing. I count you all in my blessings everyday, knowing here there is strength of character by each and everyone of us even on those days when it seems we can't take another step, that there is will be some one extendiing their hand via the written word to comfort us and encourage us to keep moving forward. I know my journey isn't over, I don't have a crystal ball to tell me where it will take me...BUT wherever it may be I will know that I have a home here, and a peace in my soul by knowing you all.

    Blessings and Light

    Linda
  • ratface
    ratface Member Posts: 1,337 Member
    osmotar said:

    Here
    John,

    I couldn't have said it better. Like others I'm sure when we were first diagnosed , I went what the hell...I had never been affected in my life or my immediated family with cancer, much less someone telling I had cancer of the tonsil. I went to the Internet and started to read, omg talk about doom and gloom , it scared the holy hoot out of me. I went to the American Cancer Society website and I found CSN, what a godsend to find the H&N group, what an amazing band or warriors. While I have a great family and friends support group, the folks here have become like extended family...the comfort I find in knowing I can say , ask, or comment on any subject brought up is amazing. I count you all in my blessings everyday, knowing here there is strength of character by each and everyone of us even on those days when it seems we can't take another step, that there is will be some one extendiing their hand via the written word to comfort us and encourage us to keep moving forward. I know my journey isn't over, I don't have a crystal ball to tell me where it will take me...BUT wherever it may be I will know that I have a home here, and a peace in my soul by knowing you all.

    Blessings and Light

    Linda

    an evolution
    of sorts. I remember when I first came here literally scared to death about the same time as John. It really has been a community that is reflective of current society. What a relief to find someone else with this awful disease. What a complicated animal it has been. What a shot of realism to discover people die from this stuff with regularity. What an equal Revelation to find that folks can, and do survive this cancer. Surviving in a real sense of prosperity and normalcy sometimes and sometimes not. So it has been a personal evolution to stick around and gain insight on the many aspects of this fork in the road with so many side trails. My thanks to the old timers, anyone who is way down the path because it's always easier on a traveled road. CSN to me is a place to evolve with the rest of you as we walk the path, but never alone.
  • Baygal
    Baygal Member Posts: 34
    The first to reach out
    John,
    I will be celebrating my one year anniversary on the 7th of September as a cancer survivor.
    When I first posted, you were the first to reach out to me and assure me that this was not the end, but a new beginning. As you said, it was not easy but doable. Thank you, Dawn aka. Sweetblood, and all the many others who have helped me with this journey these past 12 months. It has meant more than you may ever know.
    Vickie
    aka Baygal
  • Grandmax4
    Grandmax4 Member Posts: 723
    A knot in my stomach
    and a feeling of disbelief is how I felt when my ENT Dr held my hand and gave me the dreaded news, how could this be true, 66 years old, only stay in the hospital was when I had my 2 kids, no broken bones, no nothing...as I drove home, suddenly it was like a voice spoke to me and said okay, time to kick some cancer a$$.

    John, and many others..you'll never know the impact your posts have had on me, I've laughed, cried and rejoyced with all of you...on a blue day, you've made me smile, I am so glad I found this site.


    I'm 10 months out now and plan to stay on here, offering advice when I can and friendship always...some, that only post a few times, I still wonder about and pray they're doing good..you faithfuls, new and old-timers " Light up my Life, bring me hope, to carry on" Thanks
  • katenorwood
    katenorwood Member Posts: 1,912
    Boy oh boy hoping they have time for a novel !
    John,
    Thank you for giving us all access or should I say an avenue for it. I will be sitting down later today and doing just that ! Everyone means so much to me...especially this H/N site. But I have met soooo many people with different dx's because I love to jump around on all boards that might or might not effect me or a loved one or friend dx'd with this fiend. Bless you all that have made my journey quite a bit easier...and all the laughs I've had with the good natured ribbings we give one another. Katie
  • Fyrewoman
    Fyrewoman Member Posts: 1
    CANCER 101
    I wish to God I had known about this site in 2007 when I had my 1st diagnosis. It would have helped a lot. You express yourself in ways I can't even to this day.
    My 1st diagnosis was squamas cell of tonsils spread to hard & soft pallet, throat, tongue and lymph nodes. Because I had retired early just after Katrina I let my insurance drop and began college part-time and was care giver for my mother(stroke). It took me 2 months just to get someone to accept me as a patient(LSU-Baton Rouge) And another month before treatments began. During those 3 months I was in the ER 3 times ,2 admissions, 3 surgeries (Pacemaker, Port, & Peg tube).June through November I had radiation, Chemo, & surgery to remove lymph nodes in neck. I was cancer free for 18 months when it showed up in my lungs. Still squamas cell, but 2 chemos the tried didn't work, did radiation then another round of chemo. Cancer free but very weak with no immune system left. Started over went to gym and was training for the Crescent City Classic,went to hospital with a really bad infection in my lung. Thankfully had medicare by then. ICU week, then 30 days IV anti-biotic treatment as out patient.Another clean bill of health then in Sept. 2011 I had seizures while driving and wrecked. Was transported to ambulance with stoke symptoms. Within 1/2 hour I was able to speak but not write, walk a little to the bath room to give a urine sample, they suspected alcohol. They ordered a cat scan just to be sure(no more MRI's- pacemaker). I had 2 tumors in my brain and active bleeding, needless to say they immediately made me lie back down and transported me to Ochsner Jefferson Hwy. Upon my release from ICU a bunch of Doctors came in one at a time with different suggestions including full brain radiation, surgery, Gamma Knife Surgery and other treatments.
    I wouldn't give any of them an answer right away, I did some research and decided the least side effects and highest percent of recovery was the Gamma Knife treatment.
    Had treatment and tumors were shrinking, no sign of any new tumors in brain, but it wasn't over yet. Spot returned in lung really small and growing slowly decided to watch it.
    Was scheduled for an appointment in July when a week before the appointment sysmptoms started that the brain tumor had returned. They had me in the hospital within 3 days for surgery it had grown too fast and they were afraid it was a new form of cancer. 5 days in hospital, PT, Speech Therapy and Home Health nurse for 6 weeks.Gamma Knife again. Not completely cancer free but spot in lung has stopped growing for now. Feel great.
    Going to move to pan-handle of Fla. to be near my son & grandkids. Does anyone know any doctors in that area? My current doctors don't. And most peolpe my son knows with cancer go out of state or to Gainsville or Tampa for treatment.
  • Skiffin16
    Skiffin16 Member Posts: 8,305 Member
    Fyrewoman said:

    CANCER 101
    I wish to God I had known about this site in 2007 when I had my 1st diagnosis. It would have helped a lot. You express yourself in ways I can't even to this day.
    My 1st diagnosis was squamas cell of tonsils spread to hard & soft pallet, throat, tongue and lymph nodes. Because I had retired early just after Katrina I let my insurance drop and began college part-time and was care giver for my mother(stroke). It took me 2 months just to get someone to accept me as a patient(LSU-Baton Rouge) And another month before treatments began. During those 3 months I was in the ER 3 times ,2 admissions, 3 surgeries (Pacemaker, Port, & Peg tube).June through November I had radiation, Chemo, & surgery to remove lymph nodes in neck. I was cancer free for 18 months when it showed up in my lungs. Still squamas cell, but 2 chemos the tried didn't work, did radiation then another round of chemo. Cancer free but very weak with no immune system left. Started over went to gym and was training for the Crescent City Classic,went to hospital with a really bad infection in my lung. Thankfully had medicare by then. ICU week, then 30 days IV anti-biotic treatment as out patient.Another clean bill of health then in Sept. 2011 I had seizures while driving and wrecked. Was transported to ambulance with stoke symptoms. Within 1/2 hour I was able to speak but not write, walk a little to the bath room to give a urine sample, they suspected alcohol. They ordered a cat scan just to be sure(no more MRI's- pacemaker). I had 2 tumors in my brain and active bleeding, needless to say they immediately made me lie back down and transported me to Ochsner Jefferson Hwy. Upon my release from ICU a bunch of Doctors came in one at a time with different suggestions including full brain radiation, surgery, Gamma Knife Surgery and other treatments.
    I wouldn't give any of them an answer right away, I did some research and decided the least side effects and highest percent of recovery was the Gamma Knife treatment.
    Had treatment and tumors were shrinking, no sign of any new tumors in brain, but it wasn't over yet. Spot returned in lung really small and growing slowly decided to watch it.
    Was scheduled for an appointment in July when a week before the appointment sysmptoms started that the brain tumor had returned. They had me in the hospital within 3 days for surgery it had grown too fast and they were afraid it was a new form of cancer. 5 days in hospital, PT, Speech Therapy and Home Health nurse for 6 weeks.Gamma Knife again. Not completely cancer free but spot in lung has stopped growing for now. Feel great.
    Going to move to pan-handle of Fla. to be near my son & grandkids. Does anyone know any doctors in that area? My current doctors don't. And most peolpe my son knows with cancer go out of state or to Gainsville or Tampa for treatment.

    WOW & Welcome...
    Welcome, you have been through the mill and back again....

    Tons of awesome people here, amny if not all willing to share and help in anyway that they can.

    I don't have any recommendations for the panhandle, but I do live near Tampa.

    I know that The Moffitt Center in Tampa, and Shands in Gainesville are both highly recommended institutions....

    Good Luck on you journey, and survial and hope you stick around for awhile..

    Best,
    John
  • CajunEagle
    CajunEagle Member Posts: 408
    Fyrewoman said:

    CANCER 101
    I wish to God I had known about this site in 2007 when I had my 1st diagnosis. It would have helped a lot. You express yourself in ways I can't even to this day.
    My 1st diagnosis was squamas cell of tonsils spread to hard & soft pallet, throat, tongue and lymph nodes. Because I had retired early just after Katrina I let my insurance drop and began college part-time and was care giver for my mother(stroke). It took me 2 months just to get someone to accept me as a patient(LSU-Baton Rouge) And another month before treatments began. During those 3 months I was in the ER 3 times ,2 admissions, 3 surgeries (Pacemaker, Port, & Peg tube).June through November I had radiation, Chemo, & surgery to remove lymph nodes in neck. I was cancer free for 18 months when it showed up in my lungs. Still squamas cell, but 2 chemos the tried didn't work, did radiation then another round of chemo. Cancer free but very weak with no immune system left. Started over went to gym and was training for the Crescent City Classic,went to hospital with a really bad infection in my lung. Thankfully had medicare by then. ICU week, then 30 days IV anti-biotic treatment as out patient.Another clean bill of health then in Sept. 2011 I had seizures while driving and wrecked. Was transported to ambulance with stoke symptoms. Within 1/2 hour I was able to speak but not write, walk a little to the bath room to give a urine sample, they suspected alcohol. They ordered a cat scan just to be sure(no more MRI's- pacemaker). I had 2 tumors in my brain and active bleeding, needless to say they immediately made me lie back down and transported me to Ochsner Jefferson Hwy. Upon my release from ICU a bunch of Doctors came in one at a time with different suggestions including full brain radiation, surgery, Gamma Knife Surgery and other treatments.
    I wouldn't give any of them an answer right away, I did some research and decided the least side effects and highest percent of recovery was the Gamma Knife treatment.
    Had treatment and tumors were shrinking, no sign of any new tumors in brain, but it wasn't over yet. Spot returned in lung really small and growing slowly decided to watch it.
    Was scheduled for an appointment in July when a week before the appointment sysmptoms started that the brain tumor had returned. They had me in the hospital within 3 days for surgery it had grown too fast and they were afraid it was a new form of cancer. 5 days in hospital, PT, Speech Therapy and Home Health nurse for 6 weeks.Gamma Knife again. Not completely cancer free but spot in lung has stopped growing for now. Feel great.
    Going to move to pan-handle of Fla. to be near my son & grandkids. Does anyone know any doctors in that area? My current doctors don't. And most peolpe my son knows with cancer go out of state or to Gainsville or Tampa for treatment.

    Bonjour....
    and welcome to the family, neighbor.

    Larry
  • osmotar
    osmotar Member Posts: 1,006
    Fyrewoman said:

    CANCER 101
    I wish to God I had known about this site in 2007 when I had my 1st diagnosis. It would have helped a lot. You express yourself in ways I can't even to this day.
    My 1st diagnosis was squamas cell of tonsils spread to hard & soft pallet, throat, tongue and lymph nodes. Because I had retired early just after Katrina I let my insurance drop and began college part-time and was care giver for my mother(stroke). It took me 2 months just to get someone to accept me as a patient(LSU-Baton Rouge) And another month before treatments began. During those 3 months I was in the ER 3 times ,2 admissions, 3 surgeries (Pacemaker, Port, & Peg tube).June through November I had radiation, Chemo, & surgery to remove lymph nodes in neck. I was cancer free for 18 months when it showed up in my lungs. Still squamas cell, but 2 chemos the tried didn't work, did radiation then another round of chemo. Cancer free but very weak with no immune system left. Started over went to gym and was training for the Crescent City Classic,went to hospital with a really bad infection in my lung. Thankfully had medicare by then. ICU week, then 30 days IV anti-biotic treatment as out patient.Another clean bill of health then in Sept. 2011 I had seizures while driving and wrecked. Was transported to ambulance with stoke symptoms. Within 1/2 hour I was able to speak but not write, walk a little to the bath room to give a urine sample, they suspected alcohol. They ordered a cat scan just to be sure(no more MRI's- pacemaker). I had 2 tumors in my brain and active bleeding, needless to say they immediately made me lie back down and transported me to Ochsner Jefferson Hwy. Upon my release from ICU a bunch of Doctors came in one at a time with different suggestions including full brain radiation, surgery, Gamma Knife Surgery and other treatments.
    I wouldn't give any of them an answer right away, I did some research and decided the least side effects and highest percent of recovery was the Gamma Knife treatment.
    Had treatment and tumors were shrinking, no sign of any new tumors in brain, but it wasn't over yet. Spot returned in lung really small and growing slowly decided to watch it.
    Was scheduled for an appointment in July when a week before the appointment sysmptoms started that the brain tumor had returned. They had me in the hospital within 3 days for surgery it had grown too fast and they were afraid it was a new form of cancer. 5 days in hospital, PT, Speech Therapy and Home Health nurse for 6 weeks.Gamma Knife again. Not completely cancer free but spot in lung has stopped growing for now. Feel great.
    Going to move to pan-handle of Fla. to be near my son & grandkids. Does anyone know any doctors in that area? My current doctors don't. And most peolpe my son knows with cancer go out of state or to Gainsville or Tampa for treatment.

    Welcome
    Welcome to the the group....you will find amazing folks here.

    Linda
  • CivilMatt
    CivilMatt Member Posts: 4,722 Member
    you asked
    What CSN means To Me:

    It has been a life line of knowledge, it is the “go to” Google, it is the arena for H&N patients, it is the Yellow Pages for cancer, etc… It is the only place where nearly everybody can identify with your questions and what you are going through. It is also a place of heartbreak, sadness and humor. If we are going to cry together why not laugh together too.

    How Has CSN Helped Me:

    I was introduced to many of the stories, information, insights from my recliner as my wife discovered the site in January and proceeded to feed me what information I needed. With every can of Jevity came knowledge and levity (could not resist). On the cancer side of things, this site had me drinking gallons of water since day one. I was so afraid of my throat swelling up and forgetting how to swallow. It helped us with the right questions to ask and like a cancer program it leads us to coming attractions (no surprises). It is not that the doctors and nurses hold back, it is just that my friends here do not hold anything back, cancer with all it’s warts and a dash of compassion to know you are not alone.

    What Keeps Me Here:

    After all this site has done for me, it was my turn to give something back. After all I am the big supporter of Magic Mouth Wash, Silver Sulfadiazine Cream and Lorazapam (a trio any cancer patient could love). Looking through current and past posts you notice people that have gone before. Skip back 2 or 3 years in the posts or back to when John was a “newbie” and you will find earlier renditions of your self. Similar questions, similar side effects, similar answers, but most importantly individuals that took the time to lend a helping had (or ear). It is only right to participate; if you are able to open your heart and mind to others (we can’t expect John to do it all)


    Thank you,

    John (the greatest fisherman I’ve yet to meet), Greta, Dearell, Kenneth, Marcia, Stephanie, Eleni, Eustacia, and Tom

    Best,


    Matt
  • hawk711
    hawk711 Member Posts: 566
    osmotar said:

    Welcome
    Welcome to the the group....you will find amazing folks here.

    Linda

    I came here for answers
    I came for answers to my questions of why my treatment seemed to be killing me! Why do I have sores in my mouth, how long will they last, why do I have too much mucous one day and then all of a sudden I have no saliva! Why did I feel so bad and what could I do about it.

    I found those answers from very friendly people here on the CSN board. They were quick to respond and had great insight because they had experienced the same problems. I found a forum that fit my personality. I didn't want to go to meetings and sit around with others who had cancer, I wanted to be as anonymous as possible during this time but I wanted someone to talk with me who knew what I was going through. My wife was the only person who knew how bad I was feeling and how bad the treatment is (although it works).
    I found I could verbalize frustrations, actually help someone else, and was glad to see that others had found happiness again after treatment. I was hooked from the first day I read the postings. I didn't write for a few weeks. I hid out reading others posts and learning and feeling like I could try to fit in. I not only fit in, I was welcomed with open arms by folks I'd never met and may never meet. This place helped me more than any other place except my home. I have tried to give back over time and found that this is a place where you can come and go and still have a seat at the table if you wish. I am thankful for all of you folks on here and for this forum....Good question John, made me think.
  • hwt
    hwt Member Posts: 2,328 Member
    CivilMatt said:

    you asked
    What CSN means To Me:

    It has been a life line of knowledge, it is the “go to” Google, it is the arena for H&N patients, it is the Yellow Pages for cancer, etc… It is the only place where nearly everybody can identify with your questions and what you are going through. It is also a place of heartbreak, sadness and humor. If we are going to cry together why not laugh together too.

    How Has CSN Helped Me:

    I was introduced to many of the stories, information, insights from my recliner as my wife discovered the site in January and proceeded to feed me what information I needed. With every can of Jevity came knowledge and levity (could not resist). On the cancer side of things, this site had me drinking gallons of water since day one. I was so afraid of my throat swelling up and forgetting how to swallow. It helped us with the right questions to ask and like a cancer program it leads us to coming attractions (no surprises). It is not that the doctors and nurses hold back, it is just that my friends here do not hold anything back, cancer with all it’s warts and a dash of compassion to know you are not alone.

    What Keeps Me Here:

    After all this site has done for me, it was my turn to give something back. After all I am the big supporter of Magic Mouth Wash, Silver Sulfadiazine Cream and Lorazapam (a trio any cancer patient could love). Looking through current and past posts you notice people that have gone before. Skip back 2 or 3 years in the posts or back to when John was a “newbie” and you will find earlier renditions of your self. Similar questions, similar side effects, similar answers, but most importantly individuals that took the time to lend a helping had (or ear). It is only right to participate; if you are able to open your heart and mind to others (we can’t expect John to do it all)


    Thank you,

    John (the greatest fisherman I’ve yet to meet), Greta, Dearell, Kenneth, Marcia, Stephanie, Eleni, Eustacia, and Tom

    Best,


    Matt

    CSN
    I recall a conversation with my brother about all of the negativity on cancer sites. He felt the people that recovered had moved on and were out living life and only those that had negative experiences hung around to vent. Then I found this site full of grateful survivors wanting to give back. What a blessing! Truly a group of kind caring people. Heartfelt thanks.
  • phrannie51
    phrannie51 Member Posts: 4,716
    This site is my sanity keeper.....
    I don't say that lightly. I found this site within the first week of my dx last March, and have been here every single day since that time. At first drowning in fear and confusion....then finding support for treatment (which tho I knew was doable, was still a pretty crappy way to spend my summer)....and thru all this "after-care"....the support here is unmatchable anywhere else.

    All the folks on the "bus" with me....those who had gone before brought me courage and strength to get well. I think I'll be coming here for some time in the future....I owe the site so much, I want to pay it forward.

    p
  • Sam999
    Sam999 Member Posts: 319 Member

    This site is my sanity keeper.....
    I don't say that lightly. I found this site within the first week of my dx last March, and have been here every single day since that time. At first drowning in fear and confusion....then finding support for treatment (which tho I knew was doable, was still a pretty crappy way to spend my summer)....and thru all this "after-care"....the support here is unmatchable anywhere else.

    All the folks on the "bus" with me....those who had gone before brought me courage and strength to get well. I think I'll be coming here for some time in the future....I owe the site so much, I want to pay it forward.

    p

    This site helped me not slip
    This site helped me not slip into depression....it gave me hope and courage to fight it off. No matter if you have a problem or just need to vent..there is always somene there.

    John, you are always so positive and so helpful ...thank you for being there for all of us.

    Sam
  • ditto1
    ditto1 Member Posts: 660
    Sam999 said:

    This site helped me not slip
    This site helped me not slip into depression....it gave me hope and courage to fight it off. No matter if you have a problem or just need to vent..there is always somene there.

    John, you are always so positive and so helpful ...thank you for being there for all of us.

    Sam

    God, Diane and CSN
    its that simple, I would have never manueverd thru this Cancer Journey without CSN and the folks that have posted their fears, wisdom, knowledge, and just what ever was needed to help us get thru the day. I truly do not believe Diane and I would have been able to get thru this with out CSN. I have found friends on this site that I may never meet in the real world but truly think of as friends. As for how I will deal with CSN in the future, I hope to be able to help others as so many have, Skiffin being a perfect example of staying to help us entering this world. So to wrap up my comments on CSN I hate the reason we found or need this site, but I thank God it was there, and I cannot emphisis that enough.
  • ToBeGolden
    ToBeGolden Member Posts: 695
    Scared: Plain and Simple
    I'm here because I'm scared. In 2009, my hoarseness was thought to be a result of voice abuse. So I got voice therapy. Then in 2010, I could not talk enough to complete my two-month stent as a census taker. Then a quick course of radiation without chemo would cure me. Then in 2011, I had trouble breathing on any exertion. Then my vocal cords came out. Vocal cords came out but not all of the tumor. Then another round of radiation and chemo in 2012.

    Do you see a pattern? Do you see why I must consider myself a Cancer Combatant rather than a Cancer Survivor?

    My self-forecast for 2013 is bleak. Back in March/April of this year, I "decided" not to have a PET and just ride it out. But with a little more healing time, my mood and outlook has brightened. My PET will be done in Oct.

    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2009.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2010.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2011.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2012.

    I don't expect a fight to the death in 2013. Next year will just be another very boring draw. Rick.
  • Skiffin16
    Skiffin16 Member Posts: 8,305 Member

    Scared: Plain and Simple
    I'm here because I'm scared. In 2009, my hoarseness was thought to be a result of voice abuse. So I got voice therapy. Then in 2010, I could not talk enough to complete my two-month stent as a census taker. Then a quick course of radiation without chemo would cure me. Then in 2011, I had trouble breathing on any exertion. Then my vocal cords came out. Vocal cords came out but not all of the tumor. Then another round of radiation and chemo in 2012.

    Do you see a pattern? Do you see why I must consider myself a Cancer Combatant rather than a Cancer Survivor?

    My self-forecast for 2013 is bleak. Back in March/April of this year, I "decided" not to have a PET and just ride it out. But with a little more healing time, my mood and outlook has brightened. My PET will be done in Oct.

    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2009.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2010.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2011.
    I fought Cancer to a draw in 2012.

    I don't expect a fight to the death in 2013. Next year will just be another very boring draw. Rick.

    Good Call
    On having the PET...

    Thoughts and prayers, that 2013 will be the year it all comes together for you...

    Best,
    John
  • Hondo
    Hondo Member Posts: 6,636 Member
    CSN
    CSN to me is a place where you can get real to life information about Cancer, and to know what is next. It is a place where you can meet new people who care about each other and understand what each person is going through in there journey. I been here from 2009 but all my treatment was in 2002 and 2005, just wish someone would have told me about CSN back then.

    Great Post John
    Thanks Hondo
  • Kent Cass
    Kent Cass Member Posts: 1,898 Member
    CSN
    I pretty much ditto what you said in starting this thread, John. Helps me to help others with the shared H&N C experience.

    kcass