This is my first blog so here goes...
I had a malignant melanoma removed in 1993 and after years of regular check ups, and thinking it was all behind me, in April 2009 I discovered a lump and immediately went to my GP. After lots of checks, ultrasound, blood test and MRI scan I was devastated to be told the melanoma cancer had returned as secondary cancer in both lungs and both breasts. It was such a terrible shock! Iinitially I just wanted to cry, then felt angry, but what good would that do?
Since then the 3 lumps that have since developed were treated with radiotherapy. Going for treatment at the start was very frightening, especially lying under the huge machine and being left alone whilst all kinds of buzzing noises were going on. Eventually I realised what the normal procedures were and had to learn to trust the nursing staff. Once I had overcome these fears, the treatment went well and the nurses are so supportive. With radiotherapy its important to coat your skin with the cream provided to keep your skin moist after the treatment and morning and night and during the day if necessary, and also drink lots of water. I believe this protected my skin.
During the treatment I started waking up very hot and gasping for water at night and could drink a 500ml bottle of water within half an hour. Nearly 3 weeks have passed since the radiotherapy and I am feeling really good in myself - though I still wake up for water. The treatment spots are still tender and discoloured, but I no longer have a tingling/sometimes burning taking place inside the areas where I think the cancer may have been developing. Once I was half way through the treatment I became extremely tired, and could not do much during the day. There were times when I would suddenly get very cold, and only a hot water bottle and blanket could help.
I decided to fight through every day, and have returned to work, working full time when I feel strong and shorter hours when I cant make it. I am supported by a wonderful team at work, and it gets my mind off "me" and back to normality when I start thinking about I would like to buy to wear....for my next outing.
I have also had a lump removed surgically from my back, just to the side of my shoulder blade. This lump was right in the middle of a pressure point when you sleep on your back or slightly on your side and I could no longer carry a handbag over my shoulder. Well i am recovering from this. Only take painkillers when I really need to as I hate side effects of feeling sleepy, or knocked out, not to mention the constipation that comes with it. O yes, and since the radiotherapy I have struggled with constipation... enough said.
I did discover its important to write down questions and prepare yourself in advance before each consultation with your doctor or hospital, so that when you have the full attention of your doctor and staff, you can make full use of time offered for your visit.
Well they call me a cat with 9 lives.. to add to this I nearly died from asthma as a young adult and have had to take medication for most of my years for this. I just try to be positive and not take on too much or fight the world. It doesn't do one any good. I am just thankful for being able to enjoy each day or year as long as I have them available to me. I know I have long uphill walk ahead of me!
Thanks for your time and you take care..
LJane
FormerMember
Hiya, My consultant said I was a cat with nine lives and was told not to use them up so quickly. About two years ago I nearly died from an allergic reaction and went into anaphalactic shock, my son who had just passed his driving test and got a car got me to the local hospital just in time. I thought my number was up! This time was oral cancer, they got adequate margins on the tumour and the neck glands were clear. Its now wait and see, but the consultan seems hopeful. Hope all goes well for you my feline friend . Ruthxx
Well its almost 6 weeks since completing radiotherapy and it certainly has helped by reducing the size of my 3 lumps. In the meantime another lump which was making it difficult to sleep or lie down has been removed from my back, and its great to be able to lie down without discomfort. Such small things we take for granted.
Another lump developed on my neck which was very sore, and for some reason suddenly disappeared. And another one under my left arm, which has also reduced in size, but left my arm feeling painful right in the middle, and uncomfortable at times to use. I refuse to give in to it.
My family, friends and work colleagues have been so wonderful and supportive and you know what, I need to get into the garden, smile, laugh and forget about hospitals and my next appointment.
Am looking so forward to our holiday with family in Orlando. They are talking excitedly about rollercoasters and rides and waterparks - and I am up for the challenge - even if I have to be given assistance to walk the distance around the parks.
