Newly Diagnosed - Really Nervous Waiting For My Doctor's Appointment

Hi everyone I was diagnosed with papillary cancer on Dec 27, 2006 during my hemi-thyroidectomy. The radiologist found a nodule on my left thyroid and because it was slightly obstructing my esophagus (I felt that way), my doctor recommended surgery. During which, he did a frozen section and found it was cancerous and decided to remove my whole thyroid. I was then scheduled to undergo I-131 thyroid ablation procedure (79.4 mCi) on Jan 26, 2007, which means I was just released from being quarantined. I just finished my RAI whole body scan today without having to take another I-131 pill because I still have enough radioactive iodine inside me. I still have to go for the second part of the RAI whole body scan this Friday and already I am feeling anxious. Even though my doctor told me the cancer was really small (multi-focal with the larger one 2.9 cm x 1.8 cm). I am still very nervous. I am 27-year-old and never thought I could get cancer. I found out I have cancer while I was still waking up from the anesthesia and my mom was telling a friend of hers. Since then, I have mix feelings about my cancer status. I mean one moment I feel like I am lucky because this type of cancer has very high cure rate; on another, I feel like why me? why do I have to have cancer? can I ever trust my body again? I am constantly worry about that I might have other types of cancers. I guess I am just really really nervous. Also, the left area below my tongue is a bit swollen compared to the right side and I am already worrying about metastasis. My doctor's appointment is not until March 28 and I am just full of questions...thanks for listening to me...

I have one more question. Does any of you have a cat or a dog? I am just wondering how dangerous I am to my cat after the ablation procedure. The doctor said I should stay away from any pregnant women and children for 2 weeks. However, would it be ok if I stroke my cat without holding her or sleeping with her? I put her in my brother's room and restrict her from coming into mine but she cries everytime she sees me not understanding why I am keeping her out and this really breaks my heart...

Don't worry you are not alone!!  There is a light at the end of the tunnel.  I have been told that thyroid cancer is the best to have because it is so treatable.  Your life changes quite a bit but is managable.  Just keep the faith.  If you get a chance, read "Cancer Again! Now What?".  Keep up with your doctor's and try to stay on top of things.  Good Luck in your speedy recovery.  Take Care & God Bless. Aloha, Paulette

Pet your cat!  If you want to minimize the risk to your cat, don't sleep with her or spend lots of time with her very close to you.  If your cat is elderly, the chance of giving her cancer from your radiation is small, so snuggle up all you want.  Actually RAI is used in cats to treat hyperthryoidism.  I would treat a cat like you would treat another adult in the household; follow the guidelines they set for you.

What you are feeling is completely  normal.  I was diagnosed with Papillary Thyroid Cancer in 1991 at the age of 15.  I received a complete thyroidectomy and underwent the same treatment you  have just completed.  The good news about Thyroid Cancer is that it is considered the "head cold" of cancers- being that it is so highly cureable.  Granted when you are going through this, you don't feel this way at all!  I have two small children 3 & 1 who are happy healthy babies!  Keep your head up and talk with anyone and everyone who will listen.   I am here for you if you have any questions! 

I haven't seen my new doctor yet, but I have some close living arrangements right now.  I have a 2 yr old child, husband, a dog, a 6 yr old nephew, mother in law and a brother in law I'm living with at the present time.  My first time, I slept on the couch for a week and stayed away from physical contact.  Now, I have more at stake.  I'm considering staying at a hotel after my treatment.  Is that too extreme?  I know, I should wait till I see the doctor.  Anyways, thanks for listening.  Aloha, Paulette. 

My story ifyou get a chance, please read "Cancer Again !, Now What?".