Chapter One...the unexpected "C" word

You are never prepared to hear the "C" word, you never think it can happen to you. At least that's what I thought...Cancer? Me? God must have me and someone else mixed up. Doesn't God know I have a family to take care of and a job to do? That's what I thought when I was told I have Thyroid Cancer.

About two months ago, I just happened to feel a little bump on the left side of my neck. Wasn't quite sure what it was, I told Tim about it and he urged me to go get it checked out. I made an appointment for the next day and my Doctor had me get a Thyroid Ultrasound and also ordered blood work to test my Thyroid levels. She was concerned because I had explained I have had symptoms of Hypothyroidism (fatigue, weak, etc).

After having the ultrasound and seeing my primary doctor, I was referred to an Endocrinologist (specializes in the thyroid and throat areas) in Rancho Cucamonga. After reviewing the ultrasound the doctor informed me that a biopsy of my thyroid gland should be completed to tell whether cancer was present or not. We scheduled the biopsy, completed it and was told that the follow-up appointment would be July 1st. Thursday (June 23rd) Tim got a call at home from the Medical Assistant for the Endo. and she told Tim that the Dr. had the biopsy results and wanted to see me sooner than my original scheduled time of July 1st.....tomorrow at 2:45pm she wanted to see me....I knew when Tim told me all of this that I had cancer.

When meeting with the Endo I was told that I have a type of Thyroid Cancer called, Papillary Carcinoma. This cancer is VERY curable and operable...I just wanted it all to be done then and there and move on. =) She wanted me to have an MRI done on Monday June 27 and had already scheduled it for me. She wanted to make sure that the cancer didn't spread to the lymph nodes. I have an appointment Friday July 1st to get the results of the MRI and we will discuss surgery dates at that time.

Everyone says things happen for a reason and I believe this is true. In life, we experience many things and God only gives us what He believes we can handle...but Cancer? Does He really think I can handle this....I guess so!

When I first heard that I have cancer the song that came to mind is a song by Matt Redman called, "You Never Let Go". I have this one line running through my head all the time that helps me stay positive, "I can see the light, that is coming, for the heart that holds on. There will be an end to these troubles, but until that day comes, still I will praise You, still I will praise You!!" The light for me is meaning cancer free!

Thank you for your prayers and support. I will be updating you all when more information is known. God is in control and He is taking care of me. I am just trying to stay positive. =)