I am 75 yrs old and was told a week ago that I will be having a thyroidectomy. When I was told the results of my biopsy I thought ... "oh well-never mind, its better taken out and all will be well' (just like having a tooth out)
I wasn't worried until I started to ask questions a few days later. I could say it was shock; but really it was naivety on my part as I didn't no anything about cancer. Only yesterday I found out it would be a 5hr operation - NOW THAT WAS A SHOCK! as I presumed it would be 1 to 1 1/2 hrs at the most.
Beginning of next week I go for my pre-operation assessment and will be told again details I had missed when seeing my consultant . I have met my lovely Macmillan nurse and she will be there for me whenever I wish to talk.
As all the information is finally getting through to me my concern goes to my family as I don't want to cause them to worry 
My main question is to to all that have gone through the thyroidectomy -PLEASE tell me if it is painful " for me it is aways best to know these things then one is ready to deal with it 
Sending a group hug to all
Thank you Sidney78 
It has been good for me talking to everyone like this as I am trying to make light of the operation at home. My operation is booked in for the first week in September but I have mentioned on my questionnaire form that if they receive a cancelation then they can contact me with just 2 days notice. ( the sooner the better)
