The results of my recent full
body scan showed that I do not have any metastatic disease (in other words, the
thyroid cancer did not migrate anywhere else in my body). That is very
good news.
However . . . the scan, according to the
oncologist, “lit up” a section in the upper left area of my neck, indicating
there “may be something” in the lymph node region. He wants to address
this “cautiously,” meaning I will receive another radioactive iodine treatment
(smaller dose) during the 1st or 2nd week of April 2013.
I will receive more info on April 2nd. I will
probably be out for several days related to all this.
The take-a-ways from this are a bit mixed but mostly good.
The bad take-a-ways . . .
-I will not get what I really wanted for Christmas . . . the "all clear" report.
-Another treatment, meaning the process that I hoped would last no longer than 6 months will probably now take 10 months to a year from first detection of the lump in my neck to the time I get an "all clear" report.
-More dealing with my "not being in control" (which I find quite frustrating).
-Having to re-evaluate some future things I wanted to do, which may have to delayed a year. No big deal, except I made some promises . . . but everyone involved will understand
The good take-a-ways . . .
-I am feeling much, much better
physically.
-I am able to work full-time, and that feels really good. It's good to walk into Advent/Christmas carrying my fair share of the pastoral load.
-The thyroid cancer did not move to other parts of my body.
-There is no confirmation that what the scan revealed is cancer . . . but why not be agressive (what my oncologist calls "being cautious." I prefer aggressive . . . like "kill the damn thing now!!!"
-This is not a fatal disease . . . it's just going to be over when it's over.
I think in the end . . . the good take-a-ways win!!!!
God's grace still amazes me . . . ><>
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