Well, it's official....

[KelDC]

My pathology report came back today. My surgeon called this afternoon.  As suspected, I have "multi-focal papillary carcinoma."  (Have? Had? It's gone, right?) There were "foci in both lobes, so the total was the perfect choice."  He said the margins were clean.  He repeated that the surgery went beautifully, and told me that it was one of the cleanest thyroidectomies he's ever had....he said "if there was a speck of thyroid tissue left in your neck, I'd be surprised."  Good news.

It was not a shock to me (nor to him - he said,"As we expected"), though I did hold out a bit of hope that it was benign.  Oh well.  I really lucked out getting him as my surgeon - he said, "I know it is a shock to hear that word" (cancer), and I said, "Well, I was expecting it."  I also told him that "I like for my enemies to have names so I know who I'm fighting."  He laughed and said, "That's a great attitude."  He also reminded me about the incredibly high success rate in treating this ("especially in young people"), and he said he had "a very good feeling about my case."   I just love him.  

So there you have it....now I see the nuclear med doc on Wednesday for an RAI consultation, and we'll lay out the plan of attack. I like having a plan.  

[Thypatient]

I'm sorry you've had to hear that news.  As your dr said, there is a high success rate.  The stats are on your side.

Your strength and attitude are amazing and it sounds like you're in good hands.  It seems like you have a lot of support at home.  I hope that and the support you have here will steady you.

Good luck on that next step.

[nissah46]

Best of luck with the RAI, You will do fine if that's the route you decide on after your consult.

[KelDC]

Well, as Cheryl predicted, the tears do come at unexpected times....like when I read all of these responses.  I feel completely surrounded by support and love, and, really, how can that be anything but positive and good?

The knowledge and support I gained on this forum have armed me to fight this battle - I truly believe that.  So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you all SO MUCH!  

[imedicmommy]

I'm sorry for the diagnosis but glad you feel so positive and well prepared. We're all here for you!!!!!

Lots of love and luck, your sister in cancer survival
Margie

[CatieC]

You are an amazing woman. Your optimistic outlook is a great inspiration to me. You will have this behind you and going on with your life in no time.

[MKlacza]

Oh Kel... you are my lucky charm!! :) Your strength and courage and hope  make feel so selfish with some of the complaints that I have had these last few weeks. I sit here as the tears run down my face, not for pity, but for the very brave person you are and the stronger person you are about to become!!

You are going to kick some serious cancer @SS sister and WE as your community and friend are going to be right there with you my friend!!!!

Here's to you Kel!!!

Love, MK

[kipland]

Sorry to hear the news, but congrats on keeping the positive attitude!  That will definitely help you through all of this.  

I'm sorry if you already posted this and I didn't read, but are you on meds yet or are they waiting until after your RAI?  

[stella5349]

Sound like a horrible chapter is about to close for you. YEAH!! Now it's time to start really living again.

With your wonderful attitude and positive outwardness - you will get this fixed and move one very quickly.

Congrats :)

[dscoochie]

Kel, you rock - and like I said in my personal message to you, because of your strength and courage, you are my Idol, my Thyroid Idol!

Who needs Jason Castro's twinkling eyes and brilliant smile? I have Kel - my Thyroid Idol, to turn to and look up to!  :)

Go kick some cancer butt!