Update and upcoming surgery date.

Hi everyone,

     I have been quiet lately. (I wanted to wait to post until we knew the status of our Lion).  I've had a few weeks of medical appointments and took time to go on a road trip vacation with two of my grandchildren.  During this last week, I found the CT scan showed a lump in my thyroid as well as a lump in the abdomen.  (The same lump I've been waiting 6 weeks to speak to the new surgeon).  They did a ultrasound and biopsy and found that the lump on my thyroid is BENIGN.  I'm very happy about that news!

     I met with the surgeon on Friday.  At first, I thought he was very self serving until 5 minutes into the almost hour he spent with us.   He explained that even though the biopsy was benign it did not mean the mass was benign.  It's a 10 inch 2.5 cm by 1.5 cm mass.  It was not on the CT scan a year ago.) He said that if it had tested as cancerous they would know it was cancer.  By testing the three sites and getting the result of benign, they only know that those sites are not cancerous.  The reality is that he doesn't know the result until they remove the mass.

     I am scheduled for surgery on May 7.  (His schedule is 2-3 months out).  He slipped me in to a spot on May 7 and may slip me in closer if someone cancels.  My CEA was 2.9 after surgery it is 3.7 now.  He said under 5 is usually a good sign.  He did tell us that if this mass is cancerous, there is no known chemotherapy for treatment.  He said several things but that seemed to be what stuck in my head.  He told us I have the best situation for a optimal response to surgery.  In fact, he said you'll be JUST FINE! 

     It's easy to say for him, but I am concerned.  I'm keeping busy busy busy!  I think of you all often.  I've had my prayer hat on for everyone.  Welcome to the new members.  And as always....Cyber hugs

Yolanda