Having 2 types of cancer

Hi there.

Having read some concerns, I just want to add just how important it is to always have someone to travel with and go into the consultations.

Last Nov,  I went to my dentist who told me to see my gp soon. I had a lump on the back of my neck and a small raised area by my ear. Both lymph nodes, he said. Within 4 days I was at my first ENT consultation, then scan and facial biopsy few days later. Christmas eve I was diagnosed with follicular  non hodgkin's lymphoma. In shock, that came and went, panick attacks I am told? Never felt so alone. 

More waiting as bank holidays, then CT scan, pet scan, octreotide scan. Having shown up problems with my thyroid, another scan and biopsy revealed papilliary cancer as well. Also, chance I had carcinoma  syndrome as well.

I found myself feeling very thankful I only had 2, not 3 types of cancer !!! By now the panicks were long gone , only to be replaced by a sort of unrealness( is that a word!)

I have had some amazing nursing staff and compassionate consultants (5 at one point as I also have rheumatoid arthritis and now cannot take the low dose chemo meds)

But I have also come across 2 who literally were so desensitised and removed from any compassion etc, that I complained and challenged them and chosen a different surgeon. " how would you like a bone  marrow biopsy ."....and ,no, one can't keep ones leg still, as it's a reflex action!!..worst biopsy ever. That's 3 in all.

So, .....to take someone with you is a must. Your brain can go numb, your emotions come to the surface and you forget what is said.and want to cry all the way home.

I found myself so busy asking questions, that I failed to hear the word " cure"...yes, cure. It wasn't til the next morning, I rejoiced in that little word. Targeted radiotherapy here we come....but first the thyroid has to be removed and healed. Just hoping the tumours don't get any bigger

So, I feel positive, but also aware of the worst outcome of any surgery and Infection....so theres more to think about. Being on my own for a year, (husband in a nursing home, and died 2 months ago).

Wills, trust funds and appointing trustees  to add to the stress!! Least I forget, I run a hobby smallholding with various poultry, with thinking who on earth can help me. ? Worst time of year for geese. Mating season !!  They can even try to have a go at me, so this is challenging!! 

But,its all a very good distraction !! 

And....there is hope, and I am so very glad and grateful. And spring is here, with summer just round the corner. What better time of year to be treated?. xx