Stage 4 thyroid cancer

Hey there Dom, 

Welcome to the forum, though I'm sorry you need to be here. 

First things first, the good news is you're not stage 4 as the thread title suggests. As you're only 30, stage 3 and stage 4 don't apply to you. 

As for the op, they do have to give everyone the worst case scenarios so that legally they are covered and can't be sued if something happens. Hopefully the paralysis of your vocal chord is only temporary, it does happen that they go into shock, but def get yourself referred to a speech therapist sooner rather than later. The earlier they can get their hands on you with an issue like this, then the better.

As for getting on and enjoying life, we all do whatever is going on or we're going through. That's why we put ourselves through these ops and procedures, so we can have as much life as possible to enjoy. 

Lass

Xx

Hi Lass,

Thank you for help. I wish you all the best 

Hi Dom

I was diagnosed with papillary cancer in March which had spread to my lymph nodes. I had a TT and 31 lymph nodes removed at the beginning of April. On getting my results back I discovered I had 2 tumours on my thyroid and 21 of my 31 lymph nodes were cancerous.

I have recovered from the operation well. The thing I am struggling with slightly is getting the dose of thyroxine correct. It takes time.

I have an appointment next with to discuss RAI therapy which is good get in August or September. 

I have carried on with life, always with cancer at the back of my mind, but haven’t let it stop me doing things. Just after the operation I was tired and before the last change of medication. I expected that and went to bed early and planned days of not doing much. 

I have found the mental aspect harder. I am learning the true meaning of the word patience.

Good Luck

Hi Runner 25,

Thank you for your reply. I would be interested to know how you get on after the rai therapy and wish you all the best.

Also did you have any problems with your voice after your thyroidectomy. That is my main concern really I have a 3year old and 7 month baby and would really suck to not be able to communicate with my kids. Especially after the consultant has told me my right vocal chord is not working from first op and a chance of losing my voice completely.

Did you just have the whole thyroid removed first time.

Best wishes

Hi Dom

i has my completely thyroid lymph nodes removed in 1 operation. I was very fortunate that my voice wasn’t effected, and  with the luck of the NHSwas operated on by an eminent endocrine surgeon. 

I had a meeting with my nuclear medicine consultant about my RAI therapy. Much to my relief I was told I don’t need to go on a low iodine diet. I have twins who are 12 and the restrictions when I leave hospital after treatment are very strict and my husband is going to take the children away for a few days. All my dishes will have to be washed separately, along with my clothes. Husband and I have to sleep apart. I am in Scotland where I know the restrictions are stricter.

Good luck with your treatment and remember to take time to recover.

Best wishes

Runner