I am now a cancer patient.
My doc in just a Gyn and I know I have to go to a Gyn/Onc. I have an HMO so I must stay within the network. I live in Northeast Pa about 70 miles from Lehigh Valley Womens Cancer Center and they have a few gyn/Onc's on staff and that is part of the HMO network. I am calling tomorrow for an appointment and hopefully can get one soon.
I am 62 years old and overweight. I do know now that the weight is a contributing factor in uterine cancer. I will try not to beat myself up about that.
I know I will have to at least have a hysterectomy and that does not scare me,even though I have never had surgery. It is the cancer and possible spread of it that does scare me
I will be going to my Gyn on Friday 8/10 for results of the tests and I am so scared.
I have been reading posts on this message board and must say there are so many brave women out there. God Bless all of you.
Comments
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Hi!
I remember when I got my diagnosis. Scared me so much my teeth chattered. Had to really take hold of myself and decide that I was going to fight this thing and win. One of the things that gave me comfort in the beginning is that we are living in an age where cancer is treatable. There is a whole world of medicine out there that can address your cancer and give you many more years. Being a cancer patient in this day is better than it was years ago. It is not a death sentence. You have options and HOPE!!!
Keep us posted on what is going on with you. I am sure some of the other ladies will join in. You are not alone.0 -
So sorry
So Sorry about your dx. Norma said almost everything that anyone else would tell you. Talk about fear, yes we all went through that phase. Off course you will have a Hysterectomy and be sure to tell your Doc to remove the Omentum, some of them neglect to do so. I had stage 1 and had a full procedure and believe me my dear, it was a piece of cake. I know that I should not tell you not to worry and not to be scared, because it is only normal. Wait and see what the results are and then go from there. I am also 62 and was dx in 2009. Did the works chemo and every thing. Please do not talk about luck not being on your side. (what is luck?)This is part of life and we have to be strong and ask God to help us to endure this journey you are about to embark upon. Believe me, as time goes by you will be able to accept and move on. Boy, all of us on this board know exactly how you feel. But I remember one lady told me that "I should not go there before I get there" Please take note of this and try not to add more to your plate than you have to. We will be holding your hand during this journey. You need to take someone with you because you are not going to hear everything the Doc says take a pen and a pad. I wish you all the best and hope for a good dx. j0 -
Thank you Norma2 and nemparknempark said:So sorry
So Sorry about your dx. Norma said almost everything that anyone else would tell you. Talk about fear, yes we all went through that phase. Off course you will have a Hysterectomy and be sure to tell your Doc to remove the Omentum, some of them neglect to do so. I had stage 1 and had a full procedure and believe me my dear, it was a piece of cake. I know that I should not tell you not to worry and not to be scared, because it is only normal. Wait and see what the results are and then go from there. I am also 62 and was dx in 2009. Did the works chemo and every thing. Please do not talk about luck not being on your side. (what is luck?)This is part of life and we have to be strong and ask God to help us to endure this journey you are about to embark upon. Believe me, as time goes by you will be able to accept and move on. Boy, all of us on this board know exactly how you feel. But I remember one lady told me that "I should not go there before I get there" Please take note of this and try not to add more to your plate than you have to. We will be holding your hand during this journey. You need to take someone with you because you are not going to hear everything the Doc says take a pen and a pad. I wish you all the best and hope for a good dx. j
Thank you so much for your support, it really means so much to me. It brings tears to my eyes. No one knows what you are going thru unless they experience it themselves. I am so glad I found this site.0 -
Welcome aboard
Definitely don't beat yourself up over the weight or any other issue that you think might have contributed to this cancer. From what I've heard, being overweight is just part of a guideline that can tip doctors off to a certain disease.
After bleeding practically nonstop for six months, I went to a gynecologist I found in the phone book. He conducted an exam, ordered a transvaginal ultrasound that didn't go so well, and then an external ultrasound was performed. I really don't know the results, but figured if something was wrong, he would call me. He thought it was probably peri menopause. Finally, approx 11 months later, my endocrinologist referred me to a different gynecologist. She also said it was probably peri menopause but wanted to do a d and c and biopsy. She said she didn't expect to find anything. I almost backed out, thinking it was overkill and that I would go through pain needlessly. Then came the diagnosis of endometrial adenocarcinoma. I kicked myself all over the place for not being persistent in the first place. I've always been concerned about seeming like a hypochondriac so I failed to push through things. That didn't change where I was though. So you're right - the past isn't worth beating yourself up over. Save your energy to beat the cancer. It, after all, is the enemy.0 -
HI Chrismc:
Sorry you have
HI Chrismc:
Sorry you have to go through the testing, etc. It is a scary thing when you hear the "word". However, do not look up stuff on the internet. It is full of so many outdating material and stats.
If you need to have a hysterectomy, please be aware that they may remove besides your ovaries, tubes and uteris, your omentum and appendix, plus lymph nodes to give you a staging. They will probably due a blood test called a CA125. Normal range is 36 or below but be aware that this is not an indicator for everyone. For example, myself, it was not an indicator.
My diagnosis in 2005 (when I was 45) was Grade 2, Stage iii/a endometrial adenocarcinoma. I was treated with chemo and brachytherapy. I am now 52 years old.
My best to you on your upcoming appointments and tests.
(((Hugs)))
Kathy
P.S. I live in PA too!0 -
I am trying to keep busy soKaleena said:HI Chrismc:
Sorry you have
HI Chrismc:
Sorry you have to go through the testing, etc. It is a scary thing when you hear the "word". However, do not look up stuff on the internet. It is full of so many outdating material and stats.
If you need to have a hysterectomy, please be aware that they may remove besides your ovaries, tubes and uteris, your omentum and appendix, plus lymph nodes to give you a staging. They will probably due a blood test called a CA125. Normal range is 36 or below but be aware that this is not an indicator for everyone. For example, myself, it was not an indicator.
My diagnosis in 2005 (when I was 45) was Grade 2, Stage iii/a endometrial adenocarcinoma. I was treated with chemo and brachytherapy. I am now 52 years old.
My best to you on your upcoming appointments and tests.
(((Hugs)))
Kathy
P.S. I live in PA too!
I am trying to keep busy so my mind is on something else besides C. I am retired so I don't have to deal with work. I am going to makeover my bedroom so I will have a nice place for my recovery after surgery.
Called the Gyn/Onc today for an appointment but they won't make one for me until my records are faxed to the office. Since all my tests are not yet at the local gyn's office, I thought I would wait until I see him on Friday when he will discuss staging and then ask for the records to be transferred . When I was on the phone with Gyn/Onc office they would not even give me an idea of how long you have to wait for an appt. They said they determine that when they recieve the records. There are 3 Gyn/Oncs in the practice and they asked which one I wanted. I really don't know which would be the best so I told them probably the one I could see the quickest. I hope I am not making any mistakes in my plannning of this. I was just wondering how long did any of you girls have to wait for a gyn/Onc appt?
I would also like to thank everyone for your replies. I know feel like I am not alone in this.0 -
Welcome and sorry you have to join.chrismc said:I am trying to keep busy so
I am trying to keep busy so my mind is on something else besides C. I am retired so I don't have to deal with work. I am going to makeover my bedroom so I will have a nice place for my recovery after surgery.
Called the Gyn/Onc today for an appointment but they won't make one for me until my records are faxed to the office. Since all my tests are not yet at the local gyn's office, I thought I would wait until I see him on Friday when he will discuss staging and then ask for the records to be transferred . When I was on the phone with Gyn/Onc office they would not even give me an idea of how long you have to wait for an appt. They said they determine that when they recieve the records. There are 3 Gyn/Oncs in the practice and they asked which one I wanted. I really don't know which would be the best so I told them probably the one I could see the quickest. I hope I am not making any mistakes in my plannning of this. I was just wondering how long did any of you girls have to wait for a gyn/Onc appt?
I would also like to thank everyone for your replies. I know feel like I am not alone in this.
Sorry you have to join this group but there are a lot of helpful ladies on this site. I am in Dallas Tx and my Gyn is in the University of Texas Southwestern Hospital group. After I had a D&C when said there were cancer cells, my Gyn called and set up the appt with the Gyn/Onc in network for me. I got the results on Friday, April 1 and had an appointment on Mon April 4. Surgery was set for Friday April 8. I think because I was in the same hospital group they had access to my records faster.
You are not alone in this fight, we have all been there and know what you are going through. Try to remain positive and do not spend a lot of time thinking and worrying about What If. Your weight might be a contributor to the cancer but I found that there are a lot of women on this site that were in the best of shape and they still got Uterine cancer. It is just bad luck.
Do you have someone that can go with you to the gyn/onc when you go? Take an extra set of ears when you go, someone to take notes, ask other questions, etc. It helps.0 -
Holachrismc said:I am trying to keep busy so
I am trying to keep busy so my mind is on something else besides C. I am retired so I don't have to deal with work. I am going to makeover my bedroom so I will have a nice place for my recovery after surgery.
Called the Gyn/Onc today for an appointment but they won't make one for me until my records are faxed to the office. Since all my tests are not yet at the local gyn's office, I thought I would wait until I see him on Friday when he will discuss staging and then ask for the records to be transferred . When I was on the phone with Gyn/Onc office they would not even give me an idea of how long you have to wait for an appt. They said they determine that when they recieve the records. There are 3 Gyn/Oncs in the practice and they asked which one I wanted. I really don't know which would be the best so I told them probably the one I could see the quickest. I hope I am not making any mistakes in my plannning of this. I was just wondering how long did any of you girls have to wait for a gyn/Onc appt?
I would also like to thank everyone for your replies. I know feel like I am not alone in this.
I am glad you came to this board.
I had a biopsy at the end of November 2010 and surgery December 23, 2010.
I waited so long because there was not an operating room available at the hospital, but my gyn/onco wanted to do surgery immediately.
I think that once the gyn/onco receives your files, he/she will push for the surgery.
Even though your head is on something else now, start building up your own file.
Every time you have a test done, have the Dr. or hospital send you a copy, including CDs (CT, CAT, PET scans).
Get records of the surgery, blood work, and biopsy.
I have been scanning everything, so my file is in my computer.
It is very convenient, in case you switch insurance, doctor, or just simply want a second opinion, and of course it will keep you busy!
Also, before and after going to appointments, write down your questions.
Feel free to ask any questions you might have.
We are here to support you!
((((HUGS))))0 -
Thank you so much for theFayard said:Hola
I am glad you came to this board.
I had a biopsy at the end of November 2010 and surgery December 23, 2010.
I waited so long because there was not an operating room available at the hospital, but my gyn/onco wanted to do surgery immediately.
I think that once the gyn/onco receives your files, he/she will push for the surgery.
Even though your head is on something else now, start building up your own file.
Every time you have a test done, have the Dr. or hospital send you a copy, including CDs (CT, CAT, PET scans).
Get records of the surgery, blood work, and biopsy.
I have been scanning everything, so my file is in my computer.
It is very convenient, in case you switch insurance, doctor, or just simply want a second opinion, and of course it will keep you busy!
Also, before and after going to appointments, write down your questions.
Feel free to ask any questions you might have.
We are here to support you!
((((HUGS))))
Thank you so much for the suggestions Hola.
I am really a mess today anxiety wise because I have that appt with my Gyn on Friday to get results of cat scan and chest xray. Can't help but think this may be worse than he thought. I don't know if I am strong enough for this. I am trying to keep my mind busy but it is not working. Just got a reminder call of my Fri appt and felt sick after hearing the message. Will I ever be able to relax again in my life.0 -
Your feelings right now arechrismc said:Thank you so much for the
Thank you so much for the suggestions Hola.
I am really a mess today anxiety wise because I have that appt with my Gyn on Friday to get results of cat scan and chest xray. Can't help but think this may be worse than he thought. I don't know if I am strong enough for this. I am trying to keep my mind busy but it is not working. Just got a reminder call of my Fri appt and felt sick after hearing the message. Will I ever be able to relax again in my life.
Your feelings right now are normal.
It is the unknown what makes us anxious.
I am not going to advice you to relax, because I know for fact it won't work.
However, keep in mind that it is what it is. Worrying about it will not change the diagnosis, but it could affect your immune system.
Right now, you need to eat well and exercise if you can.
You will be surprise to discover how strong you are.
This is a very hard road to walk through, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
The most important event right know is to schedule the surgery, so the doctor can determine the stage and grade.
In the mean time, try to focus on the positive things you have in your life right now.
Please keep us posted.0 -
You came to the right placeFayard said:Your feelings right now are
Your feelings right now are normal.
It is the unknown what makes us anxious.
I am not going to advice you to relax, because I know for fact it won't work.
However, keep in mind that it is what it is. Worrying about it will not change the diagnosis, but it could affect your immune system.
Right now, you need to eat well and exercise if you can.
You will be surprise to discover how strong you are.
This is a very hard road to walk through, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.
The most important event right know is to schedule the surgery, so the doctor can determine the stage and grade.
In the mean time, try to focus on the positive things you have in your life right now.
Please keep us posted.
Glad you found us Chrismc, but not happy about your diagnosis. This is a very knowledgeable, caring, and kind group of women. We each have had different types, grades, and stages of endometrial/uterine cancers, yet we all share a common bond. I guarantee you, you will find the support you need here.
I was right where you are 2 years ago, 62 years old, and hit by the words no one wants to hear. Then the wait, the awful wait. And the fear of the unknown. And all of the what ifs.
So please come here with your questions and concerns. We don't think any of them are stupid or naive, because we've all asked them, or if we haven't, we've thought them.
I hope everything works out well for you. The cancer thing is out of your hands, but what is in your control is to focus on being as well and as strong as you can be to get you through this. You will be amazed when you look back on this time - we just have to get you through it.
Suzanne0 -
I'm trying to be strong butDouble Whammy said:You came to the right place
Glad you found us Chrismc, but not happy about your diagnosis. This is a very knowledgeable, caring, and kind group of women. We each have had different types, grades, and stages of endometrial/uterine cancers, yet we all share a common bond. I guarantee you, you will find the support you need here.
I was right where you are 2 years ago, 62 years old, and hit by the words no one wants to hear. Then the wait, the awful wait. And the fear of the unknown. And all of the what ifs.
So please come here with your questions and concerns. We don't think any of them are stupid or naive, because we've all asked them, or if we haven't, we've thought them.
I hope everything works out well for you. The cancer thing is out of your hands, but what is in your control is to focus on being as well and as strong as you can be to get you through this. You will be amazed when you look back on this time - we just have to get you through it.
Suzanne
I'm trying to be strong but is is really tough. Hope I don't sound like I am whining. I live alone and always did not mind it,but at a time like this I would very much like someone elese in this house with me. I don't want to take on the attitude of poor me and feel sorry for myself. I have done some things in my lifetime that some ask " how did you do that by yourself", but I have never faced something like this. Oh well, enough of that. I went shopping today and bought a new picture for my bedroom that says "Learn How to Sail in All Winds". Very appropriate for this time. Thanks for listening
Chris0 -
Please do not feel you arechrismc said:I'm trying to be strong but
I'm trying to be strong but is is really tough. Hope I don't sound like I am whining. I live alone and always did not mind it,but at a time like this I would very much like someone elese in this house with me. I don't want to take on the attitude of poor me and feel sorry for myself. I have done some things in my lifetime that some ask " how did you do that by yourself", but I have never faced something like this. Oh well, enough of that. I went shopping today and bought a new picture for my bedroom that says "Learn How to Sail in All Winds". Very appropriate for this time. Thanks for listening
Chris
Please do not feel you are whining. You have a very valid reason to feel the way you do right now. Let it out!
As someone else said, you came to the right place. We are here to support you and hear you, no matter what it is.
If you want to talk more, please feel free to email me at luisafayard@yahoo.com.
Stay well!0 -
I'm also glad you found us.Fayard said:Please do not feel you are
Please do not feel you are whining. You have a very valid reason to feel the way you do right now. Let it out!
As someone else said, you came to the right place. We are here to support you and hear you, no matter what it is.
If you want to talk more, please feel free to email me at luisafayard@yahoo.com.
Stay well!
I'm also glad you found us. Nobody can understand the fear and anxiety of having cancer until you've experienced it.
Sending prayers and comfort to you.....that your appointment today goes well and you hear good news from your doctor. Once you've talked it over and formulate a treatment plan you somehow find the strength to move forward.
You are stronger than you know........and someday, looking back on this, you'll understand that it takes enormous strength and courage to move after a cancer diagnosis.
But you WILL get through it, step by step, one day at a time.
Please let us know how your appointment went....there's strength in numbers and we're all behind you!
Take care.....0 -
Just returned from mysunflash said:I'm also glad you found us.
I'm also glad you found us. Nobody can understand the fear and anxiety of having cancer until you've experienced it.
Sending prayers and comfort to you.....that your appointment today goes well and you hear good news from your doctor. Once you've talked it over and formulate a treatment plan you somehow find the strength to move forward.
You are stronger than you know........and someday, looking back on this, you'll understand that it takes enormous strength and courage to move after a cancer diagnosis.
But you WILL get through it, step by step, one day at a time.
Please let us know how your appointment went....there's strength in numbers and we're all behind you!
Take care.....
Just returned from my Gyn.appt.with results of ct scan and chest xray. He told me that I do have some enlarged lymph nodes but everything else was clear. He called Lehigh Valley Womans Cancer Center in Allentown Pa to get me an appt which is for Tues.He also scheduled a consultation appt with a radiological oncologist for monday in the local area. He said I can have the surgery in Allentown but the treatments if needed could be done locally. I know I will probably have to have radation and chemo but I can do this. At least I feel better at this point knowing nothing else showed up on ct scan but I am aware the surgery can tell a different story.
My doctor was so wonderful, he said this can be cured. He told me to take care of myself, get enough rest and eat properly to maintain my strength.
It is just so wonderful having a support system from the girls on this message boards. I just cannot thank you all enough.
Chris0 -
Chrischrismc said:Just returned from my
Just returned from my Gyn.appt.with results of ct scan and chest xray. He told me that I do have some enlarged lymph nodes but everything else was clear. He called Lehigh Valley Womans Cancer Center in Allentown Pa to get me an appt which is for Tues.He also scheduled a consultation appt with a radiological oncologist for monday in the local area. He said I can have the surgery in Allentown but the treatments if needed could be done locally. I know I will probably have to have radation and chemo but I can do this. At least I feel better at this point knowing nothing else showed up on ct scan but I am aware the surgery can tell a different story.
My doctor was so wonderful, he said this can be cured. He told me to take care of myself, get enough rest and eat properly to maintain my strength.
It is just so wonderful having a support system from the girls on this message boards. I just cannot thank you all enough.
Chris
I am glad everything went well.
Hopefully the surgery will be very soon.
Just follow your doctor's advice: rest and eat well to stay strong.
And yes, you can do it!
Keep us posted!0 -
We'll be with you every step of the wayFayard said:Chris
I am glad everything went well.
Hopefully the surgery will be very soon.
Just follow your doctor's advice: rest and eat well to stay strong.
And yes, you can do it!
Keep us posted!
It sounds like the wheels are in motion and moving forward. Please take good care of youself and keep us posted.
Suzanne0 -
Congratulaions on the good news.chrismc said:Just returned from my
Just returned from my Gyn.appt.with results of ct scan and chest xray. He told me that I do have some enlarged lymph nodes but everything else was clear. He called Lehigh Valley Womans Cancer Center in Allentown Pa to get me an appt which is for Tues.He also scheduled a consultation appt with a radiological oncologist for monday in the local area. He said I can have the surgery in Allentown but the treatments if needed could be done locally. I know I will probably have to have radation and chemo but I can do this. At least I feel better at this point knowing nothing else showed up on ct scan but I am aware the surgery can tell a different story.
My doctor was so wonderful, he said this can be cured. He told me to take care of myself, get enough rest and eat properly to maintain my strength.
It is just so wonderful having a support system from the girls on this message boards. I just cannot thank you all enough.
Chris
That is good news. yes, after surgery will tell more but it does lessen the worry some. This board is here for you when you need it. Keep us posted. trish0 -
Good luck, Chrischrismc said:Just returned from my
Just returned from my Gyn.appt.with results of ct scan and chest xray. He told me that I do have some enlarged lymph nodes but everything else was clear. He called Lehigh Valley Womans Cancer Center in Allentown Pa to get me an appt which is for Tues.He also scheduled a consultation appt with a radiological oncologist for monday in the local area. He said I can have the surgery in Allentown but the treatments if needed could be done locally. I know I will probably have to have radation and chemo but I can do this. At least I feel better at this point knowing nothing else showed up on ct scan but I am aware the surgery can tell a different story.
My doctor was so wonderful, he said this can be cured. He told me to take care of myself, get enough rest and eat properly to maintain my strength.
It is just so wonderful having a support system from the girls on this message boards. I just cannot thank you all enough.
Chris
It's good that you now have a plan. If you need us, we will support you all the way through.
If you're interested in healthy "anti cancer" eating, there is a good book called "Anticancer: a new way of life" by Dr David Servan-Schreiber. It is a very interesting book with lots of diet information.
Take care and look after yourself
Kindest wishes
Helen0 -
Anxietychrismc said:Just returned from my
Just returned from my Gyn.appt.with results of ct scan and chest xray. He told me that I do have some enlarged lymph nodes but everything else was clear. He called Lehigh Valley Womans Cancer Center in Allentown Pa to get me an appt which is for Tues.He also scheduled a consultation appt with a radiological oncologist for monday in the local area. He said I can have the surgery in Allentown but the treatments if needed could be done locally. I know I will probably have to have radation and chemo but I can do this. At least I feel better at this point knowing nothing else showed up on ct scan but I am aware the surgery can tell a different story.
My doctor was so wonderful, he said this can be cured. He told me to take care of myself, get enough rest and eat properly to maintain my strength.
It is just so wonderful having a support system from the girls on this message boards. I just cannot thank you all enough.
Chris
I found the worst period was between waiting for the biopsy results and having surgery. After that I had a schedule to follow and a job to do (defeat this thing trying to harm me). So get through that time with the help of the people here and then you can get on with recovery.
I, too, have struggled with weight all my life and guess what? I got UPSC, which tends to favor thin women. Go figure!0
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