Subject: 30 Year HD survivor; Secondary Cancer Issues-Long
Date: 11/30/2007
Hi Everyone,
I was not really sure where to post some questions as I am almost 30 years out from my dx of HD Stage IIA. I have developed a lump in my neck that is currently going under some diagnostic testing (I had a CT scan last week-do not know the results).
I was seventeen at dx; I am now almost 50. I have had some major issues with secondary cancer's; tons of skin cancers within all the radiation field; Thyroid Cancer 2000; and most recently Stage IIIA Breast Cancer in 2004 in both breasts; IDC in the left (tumor was 2.5 cm with comedo components of DCIS) and the right breast was DCIS. I had an aggressive tumor with angiolymphatic invasion. This past June I had a hysterectomy; because of ovary issues and fibroids. Fourtunately, there was no cancer to be found. I go every 6 months for checkups with my oncologist for follow-up with the BC issues--I have also had serious issues with anemia and periodically get infused at the hospital. (Iron)
A few weeks ago, I noticed the lef side upper portion of my neck looked swollen. I had my SO feel around that area and he felt something; which in turn I called my ENT and saw him. Now, within a week I have felt another hard (lump?) midline neck more to the back area. This is hard and seems "fixed".
Two questions:
Have any of you heard HD returning after this long of remission?
Do your Doctor's call with results, or do you have to wait to see them so they can go over them?
I'm sorry if this is all alittle long winded. Just wondering if any of you have experienced this.
Side Note: For all you woman out there with previous radiation to the chest. Please be diligent in mammos and self exam. Although my 6 month mammo did not pick up anything unusual; within 5 months I had cancer in both breasts. I think the guidelines for us woman who have had radiation therapy in our teens should be watched VERY closely.
Thanks for your time, I wish you all the best.
Lorie Anne