New here....

Hi . Can I offer you a warm welcome to the Macmillan Online Community. I’m sorry to read about your diagnosis but I’m glad you’ve found us.

My cancer is different, but a cancer diagnosis of any kind makes us ask lots of questions, causes confusion, stress and probably emotions we’ve never experienced before. We all agree, the endless waiting for tests, results and Consultations is so debilitating so to be able to talk to other people who are in the same situation will help you get through this.

The Macmillan Community is organised into dedicated support hubs. You’ve joined our Thyroid cancer group, this will be a good place to meet up with others on the same type of cancer journey. I'm sorry to read your husband is squeamish so you won't be able to discuss things with him but the others on this forum will be able to answer your questions.

The Macmillan Support Services also provide lots of information, support, financial guidance or just someone to listen.

Most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week and it's free to call on 0808 808 00 00 have a look by Clicking here to see what is available and we also have our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.

Sending you welcoming hugs B xx 

Hi there, I’m scheduled for surgery on the 1st, however my friend has also had this surgery and she was uncomfortable for 5 days or so, but managed with ordinary painkillers.  I’ll happily update once I have first hand experience but hope this helps in the mean time.   Her scar was also smaller than I thought it would be too.  She’s 4 weeks post surgery. Look after yourself x

Thanks. I hope your surgery is straightforward.  I've read about minimally invasive procedures,  but haven't had a chance to ask re my procedure yet. I might be 53, but my neck doesn't have much in the way of lines to hide any incision scar. Do let me know how things go for you. x

Hi Chatterbox, 

I had my hemithyroidectomy a month ago. It was much easier than I’d expected. The only time when I really felt pain that needed painkillers was as I woke up from the anaesthesia. Apart from that it was only discomfort, but not pain. I recovered within a week! It was incredible, I could do pretty much anything except strenuous exercises and lifting heavy objects. My scar is really small as well! 

hope this helps. Lucia

Hi Lucia

Thank you for your message. I'm glad it wasn't too traumatic for you. Dust you have traditional surgery, or keyhole?

Rachel 

HI Chatterbox and DeeC

I agree with Lucia, I had the operation in February. I only had a bit of discomfort and was back to normal in a couple of days. I only have a thin scare line.  I don't think they do this surgery via Keyhole. 

I wish you all the best to you both.

Hi Rachel,

it was a traditional one, but the surgeon managed to get it out through a very small hole. Tomorrow I will have the other side of my thyroid removed and they will go in through the same incision. 
Really, do not worry about the surgery, it is nothing. Just make sure you have plenty of vitamins before the surgery, so eat well, sleep well, take some supplements, and your body will surprise you! 

All the best, Lucia.

Hi. Been thinking of you this week, and wondering how your surgery went. x