Well after going through countless tests, CT scans, fna's, PET scans, examinations and finally excisional lymph node biopsy surgery; the Doctors are telling me that I have no cancer at this time. HOORAY!!
I am very relieved yet I feel so confused. I was absolutely convinced that I had lymphoma. Doctors and all I had read and also my symptoms led me to believe that.
I almost wonder if it is possible that I made myself 'feel' sick?
I doubt it as all these months (illness began Aug 2009; found lump in December) - I have been quite unwell. Doctor also can see abnormal nodes on the scans and by feeling in some cases, they just can not find a cause at this time.
Last CT showed a few more abnormal nodes and there was something mentioned about something by my lungs and spleen, but at this time it all adds up to nothing difinitive all I know for sure is right now it is not cancer. Biopsied node was looked at by two pathologists and 1 lymph node specialist.
The Doctor did say I will require more appointments as he believes still that cancer cells may show up.
I am still unsure of all that is going on and still have an upcoming surgery Sept 22 - bladder prolapse repair.
I want to thank you all for putting up with my questions etc. You were all wonderful. Please know that I am forever changed by this experience, and you will all be in my prayers. Healing blessings for you all!
Jill-
That's great news, I hope that cancer stays away. I know you've got other challenges ahead of you and I wish you the best of luck against those, but at least they no longer include cancer.
Thanks No One & Ross.
I would like to add my story is a good one for people who feel a swollen node and freak about cancer.
It does not always turn out that way.
It is good to get it checked out and have Doctors determine what steps to take.
I had all the Doctors telling me it was most likely cancer.
The surgeon who removed the node told me he was 98% sure I had lymphoma.
So moral of the story, do not believe all you read & hear, do not jump to conclusions just wait patiently for the results.
And get educated then advocate for yourself!
Based on your story and my experience, I think that surgeons should sign a contract that they will say nothing when it comes to their opinions regarding nodes that they have removed. My surgeon told me it was probably nothing, with the caveat that my Oncologist would have the final word. Currently stage 3A, and just had PET/CT scans today because I am hopefully at the half way point with ABVD. Not upset with the guy, but it is clearly not his area of expertise. Glad your experience was just the opposite. Phillip
Hi Phillip,
You are correct, the Doctors should not include opinion or guesses - they should help us find a way to patiently await the results. But it also makes them a little more human to give opinion. I directly asked the Doctor what he thought it was, so it was partially my fault I suppose.
I do think it is probably a lot easier for me to be okay with it as I ended up with a positive result.
Anyway I do understand the frusturation in it.
How are you doing now? Feeling good?
I sure hope so and am glad to hear you are at the halfway point treatment wise. I hope the PET/Ct scans went well.
Take Care
Jill
I actually feel great. The chemo effects have been pretty light by most standards. I just talked to my doctor tonight and the chemo seems to be working. I am feeling so relieved. Six more cycles and I should be done. Phillip