Hi everyone,
This is a post I never, ever thought I’d be writing, but I do have thyroid cancer. I got the call from my doctor in the late afternoon on Monday. Yesterday was a really hard day. Did you ever read this book?
Yep, that was me. Things started looking up as the day progressed, though. I have spoken with a lot of different people who know a lot about thyroid cancer. I have the most treatable kind that is also the type that rarely spreads. So, once I have the surgery to remove the gland (sometime in the next 6 weeks), I should be cancer-free and live a normal, healthy life.
I also took comfort from all of your support this last week and the love that I received yesterday from the people who I told first. I really can’t even express what yesterday was like because it was so overwhelming in the sense that I went from the deepest low I have ever felt to actually gaining strength from those around me and ending the day feeling exhausted, but much more like myself.
Alan, my husband, has been a pillar of strength and has not wavered one second in reassuring me that we/I will get through this. He even offered to make dinner on Monday night and that was enough to make me laugh and re-focus for a minute. 
So, I want to let you know that I am okay and feeling very positive about the future. Maybe some of you are wondering about this, but one of my first thoughts was how ironic it is that I have been eating so healthfully these past several years and why would NOW be the time that I would get cancer? I mean, come on, it’s only been a month since I left Dr. Fuhrman’s Getaway where we were learning about cancer prevention and living the very lifestyle that has been shown to fight against cancer!
From what I understand, thyroid cancer has a genetic component and so who knows how long it has been developing in my cells. I had at least several nodules for several years, although they appeared normal and within safe size guidelines until last week. At this point in science, I don’t think we have the capability to know what exactly caused the genetic disposition to develop and then show itself now.
What I do know is that my body is very, very healthy, the healthiest it’s ever been, and I am doing the best I can to have a strong immune system. I had the opportunity to speak with someone in Dr. Fuhrman’s office yesterday who has fought cancer. Then, as a total and complete surprise, I received a call from Dr. Fuhrman himself who had only kind, supportive and encouraging words for me. I couldn’t believe he took the time out of his busy schedule to make that call to me; how awesome is that?!?
I’m sure you can understand that these past several days have been an emotional roller-coaster, but today I feel pretty darned good. I will keep you updated on my progress and hopefully get back to more “normal” blog posts with less intense topics such as bean brownies and kale salads. Mmmmm!
{ 101 comments… read them below or add one }
Carrie, dear one, you are strong and powerful. Your attitude alone is miraculous. You are in my thoughts and I am here for anything that you need. Anything.
Thank you, JL!!!!!!
Carrie, I teared up as I was reading your post today and want you to know that probably more people than you could imagine do care about you. I’m so happy that you got a call from Dr. F – what a thrill – and I know your healthy diet and your positive attitude will get you through whatever is next.
I’m so sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but it sounds like you have a great attitude and with your healthy living, you’re in a perfect position to fight this. That was big of Dr. Fuhrman to call you, and I’m sure his encouragement made you feel that much better about your prognosis. Thinking of you with healing thoughts!
A former supervisor of mine had thyroid cancer and she came out of the surgery just fine. She did have to have some treatments, but everything went well and she is cancer free.
It didn’t appear to take a heavy toll on her body like some of the other cancers do so I pray you will have a very positive outcome from your surgery.
A call from Dr. Fuhrman is awesome definitely a highlight from a tough day.
P.S.
I always have loved the Alexander story
Thank you, Rachel, your post made me smile.
Hi Carrie,
With your great attitude, diet, and support from friends and family, you will be fine. Good luck with the surgery.
Jonathan
Hi Carrie,
I’m so sorry for your news, and sad that you are struggling with this right now. Please know you have a circle of love and support around you every step of the way. Sending all best wishes, positive thoughts, and sincere prayers of quick recovery and resolve!
Your friend, Ada
Carrie – I had a thyroidectomy in 1995, and have not had any problems from it. I take synthroid and have my blood levels monitored. My weight is in a healthy low range and my energy level is fine. I have no problems with moods or emotions. My diet is vegetarian (mostly vegan).
You should be fine. If you’re going to get cancer – thyroid cancer is one of the least detrimental.
Thanks, Jean, it really helps to hear stories of good outcomes. I am so glad you are doing well and I hope to be in your shoes soon.
Carrie,
I am praying for you. The advantage you have is that you are otherwise healthy and optimistic. I know that you will fight through this and reach recovery.
Dominique
You are in my thoughts. I know you will pull through this & come out on top. Many blessings to you.
Rosa
So sorry to hear your news. With your positive attitude and lifestyle you will be fine. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.
Carrie, You have prepared your body to be the best warrior it can be in this battle. There will be sweet victory on the other side. I’m so grateful you have supportive & encouraging people along side of you. Thank you for sharing this with us– it is so inspiring. Thinking of you much!
Hi Carrie. I’ve been following your site for a few months now as I embark on changing my diet. I received the same call you did on a Monday a few months ago. You’re never quite prepared to hear it. My dad, who is a cancer survivor, came over that same day, held my hand and told me “today is the worst day… it will get better.” He was right… facing the fact that cancer is in your body is the worst… but it will get better. My thyroid cancer treatment is now finished and the scar on my neck, I plan to wear proudly. I’m so grateful for you and your website as I learn more about eating in a way that promotes good health. You are in my thoughts and I will be praying for you as you begin this journey – Jen
Wow, thank you for your honesty, Jen, I really appreciate the words of encouragement. It helps so much to know that other people have gone through this and are healthy and “normal” again.
Carrie, I am so sorry to hear your news. Thankfully you know how to care and nourish your body. I am sure you will be another nutritarian success story!
Your positive outlook on things is inspiring to say the least. I know your healthy habits will aid in a quick recovery and you are in my prayers.
I had to pick my jaw up off the floor when I read the first line of this post since you are doing everything right with regards to your health. Like you said though, there are other reasons that could have led to the cancer. I’m so glad you are feeling better about it (already!) and how special to be able to talk to Dr. Furhman about it. Your physical and mental strength will get you through this – attitude is everything and you should be proud of your 180-degree turn in perspective in just two days! I hope all of your family’s, friends’ and readers’ prayers & words of encouragement are a help as well. We are pulling for you and surrounding you with as much love and warmth as possible!
Hi Carrie
What a terrible shock this must have been for you. I’m so sorry you’re having to go through this. It seems so unfair when like you say you’re so healthy, but it’s great that it is easily treated and your healthy diet will stand you in good stead I’m sure.
I’ll be praying for you and my thoughts are with you at this tough time.
Katherine
You have prepared your body to take this on and WIN! Super Immunity!!! How absolutely awesome that Dr Fuhrman called you. I teared up too as I read this Carrie, but you will get beat it because you CAN!
Carrie — I know we’ve spoken, and, deal with it, but we will continue to speak regularly as you get through this (and after that too). We are both thinking of you and sending loads of love. These things are inexplicable, so I’d focus on healing rather than making sense of it. As I told you, this can still be the Year of Carrie. There is a lot of love around you, and a ton of support. Personally, I’d take Alan up on his offer to make you dinner! At the very least, it would create for a very entertaining blog post!
Haha, I kid. Love to Alan, too. And please stay in touch, Carrie. Also, not to sound like that person, but perhaps incorporate some meditation into your days. I’d use this as a time to reconnect with your body, since I’m sure in so many ways it feels like your body is betraying you. You are a strong, beautiful, healthy, energetic, smart, talented, compassionate person. Breathe deep.
xoxox jasmin
I am so amazed, impressed, and inspired by you right now. You are a phenomenal human being and your being able to bring yourself back to a more positive outlook is incredible. I truly admire your strength and I have no doubt in my mind that you will be able to beat this. Thank you so much for sharing this experience with all of us. Take care.
Wow, Kristy, thank you for such a sweet comment, I very much appreciate it.
Hi Carrie,
I had a thyroid full of nodules 10 years ago, but none of the biopsies showed cancer. The recommendation was to have surgery to remove the thyroid anyway. The interesting thing is that they did find cancer in the post-surgical biopsy, and it was in the “healthy” tissue in between the nodules, not in any of the nodules themselves. Since the surgery, I have had a healthy baby and barely even think about my thyroid. I see an endocrinologist once a year to make sure my medication is at a proper level. The surgeon told me that many, many people have thyroid cancer, and don’t know it. No one dies from it. In any event, try not to worry. Get through the surgery and make plans for positive and fun things after recovery. Best wishes, Suzanne
Thank you, Suzanne, it really helps to read a story like this!!!!!
Words cannot express my sorry and commitment to see you recover fully. My confidence is based on the fact of your observation that yours is an easily treatable type and you have an excellent juicer!
Do avail yourself of the cancer prevention and treatment protocol . God’s speed to you Carrie on a swift and complete recovery. Stay strong!
Paul
Thanks, Angry Face Paul!!!
sigh, I have to take an afternoon and get rid of that nasty avatar which does not behoove me!
I know some people I might hang it on though!! Hey there’s a thought. };)
Nefarious Paul
Ha ha ha!
As an oncology nurse, I see people struggling with various forms of this terrible disease on a daily basis. Their strength and grace always astound me. You are very lucky to have a form of the disease that responds well to surgery and I am certain that you will be just fine! Never think for a moment that your recent lifestyle changes have let you down. Know that, by the time cancer has grown large enough to be detectable, it has been in place for years and years. Unfortunately, it was almost certainly already there long before you began to change your diet, and your recent commitment to health can only serve to improve your outcome. By following Dr. Fuhrman’s plan, you have put yourself in the best possible position to fight this and win. My thoughts are with you. You are an inspiration to us all.
I think you are right about this, Jenn, and I do appreciate your input.
Carrie,
I say this with total confidence: you’ve got this, girl. And we’re all here with you along the way. *big hugs*
-x-
Rebecca
What a blessing they found the cancer and now can take it out!! Also, what a great blessing that you have been eating so healthy because now your body is in great shape to move forward and be healed. You are doing everything you can for your body and you’re going to do great! Sending happy thoughts your way!!
You are such an amazing woman Carrie! I am so glad you have loving people around you and that you take great care of yourself. You can take this! hugs
Just emailed you…I’m here for you if you need me/anyone. Stay strong! <3
O Carrie! You’ve got a fab crew pulling for you, and we reflect the fabulousness of your own self. I’ll be sending healing mojo for your surgery for sure for sure!
Dear Carrie….my heart stopped, but then picked up again as I read through your post. You know that so many of us are praying for you and offering up positive thoughts. From personal experience, both a dear friend of mine and also my mother had this and went through surgeries and are absolutely in perfect health (and have been so for many many years). I know the same will be for you. Sending you love and prayers…… xoxo
Hi Carrie I was really quite shocked to hear your news and so sorry that you got this news. However on a very positive note your immune will be strong to fight this due to your exceptionally healthy eating so give it all you have got! Those veggies and fruit will win this war! How very thoughtful of Dr F to ring you. He seems a very genuine caring person. Wishing you all the best xx
Carrie…I forgot to include this in my last post. While definitely not the same diagnosis as yours, I have always found much hope and strength with this gal. http://kriscarr.com/
PS. I meant to type that your ‘immune system’ will be strong to fight this……..!
Dear Carrie – I’ve been keeping you in my prayers the last few days, and especially now. I’m so sorry that you had such a rough day yesterday, but the way you resolved it and felt much better by the end was awesome. I’m so glad that Dr. Fuhrman called you, too. I really feel in my heart that you are going to do great, and that like you said your body is strong and healthy. Your positive spirit is super-inspirational in every way! Thank you for your wonderful blog and everything you share! Keeping you in my thoughts and sending hugs, love and prayers…
I will be praying for you and I know you will be beat this
You have healthy eating and habits on your side.
That was so kind of Dr. Furhman to call you.
Carrie, I’m so sorry about your diagnosis but you are so very strong. Your healthy habits will only help you in this battle. I had my thyroid out because they couldn’t determine if it was cancerous or not so I know the stress it places on you and your body. Mine fortunately wasn’t cancerous but I know you your positive outlook and family will help your healing process.
I have a lot of cancer running through my family so I feel that being as healthy as I can in case I have to fight that battle is my only option. You’ve got a great start and I wish you a speedy recovery.
I haven’t got much to say that I didn’t say via email, but Carrie, today is the start of your moving toward fast and full recovery from this. Period.
I’m 100% here for you, if you need anything at all.
Wow – I am shocked! I appreciate that many people following will learn from your experience with this happening in your life. I have recently learned a lot of women getting thyroid cancer and in fact my holistic dentist who is extremely healthy. It boggles my mind. I always thought if I got cancer that it would definitely be emotionally related as I do everything possible to be healthy physically. Carrie, you seem to be very balanced emotionally, physically etc., but perhaps something to look at as most of us carry around some emotional past issues. Please keep us posted on what you are going through. You are a leader in this food/diet revolution. We want to learn from you. Love to you…. -Linda
Carrie, my heart goes out to you. I have known enough people who have had (and survived) cancer to recognize that sometimes what is wanted is anger and commiseration, other times what is desired is cheerleading and optimism. I express both to you here.
Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I have been a blog reader for some time now and do not think I have ever commented, but I always appreciate hearing your thoughts and enjoying glimpses into your life.
Carrie,
This is just a small setback in the beautiful life you are living. Don’t let it get you down. Be strong. We are all thinking of you!
Carrie, I’m so sorry to hear this, but so inspired that you are confronting this with such positivity. It sounds like you have a strong, loving support system to help you through this time. I think it’s great that you’re eating so healthfully and wholesomely, not only to help your body recover but to show others that eating a nutritious, vegan diet can keep you strong at all stages and phases of life. I hope you get to enjoy a few bean brownies in the near future
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
With lots of virtual hugs,
Angela
Positive thoughts, prayers and hugs.
Gary
You’ll be fine, I admire you and you inspire all of us with your healthy eating habits and wish you nothing but the best. Thank you for sharing
Much love to you Carrie! The irony of the situation of eating healthy would not be lost on me either (actually I think I would be ANGRY!) So props to you for being so positive. We’re here for you!
Oh Carrie! How scary this must be! I’m sure you’re still In a bit of shock from hearing the diagnosis, but just read what people with experience with this condition have said here. You are young, strong, and doing everything good for your health that’s possible. You can be treated, you’ve put yourself in the best possible position for a great outcome. Just expect and believe that you will be 100% fine very soon. You inspire us all with your courage and your candor. Sending you a big virtual hug!
Hugs back, Donna!
Carrie, I am so sad to hear of your diagnosis. Huge hugs! I firmly believe you can get through it though and you will come out the other side strong and healthy. You are strong and healthy now, so keep on the path and you’ll get through it.
Much universal love and take care
In response to several comments above expressing surprise that someone who is so healthy could have this diagnosis (or the idea that, if cancer is not from lifestyle and habits, then it is “emotional”), I just wanted to point out that cancer is and always has been incredibly mysterious, and built deeply into our genes and our biology. Yes, certain specific types of cancers do respond positively to lifestyle choices (or are associated with poor lifestyle choices), and I do believe wholeheartedly that Carrie’s very healthy lifestyle will have a positive impact on her healing process!
But the idea that we somehow can entirely control our susceptibility to cancer is untrue and misleading, and it can often make those who have suffered this kind of diagnosis feel somehow responsible. Cancer has been with us since the earliest recorded human history, and our longer life spans have put the errant division of cells into greater relief. Again, I’m not denying the power of healthy living on managing it, but I do feel compelled to speak out against the idea that we have total “control.”
Carrie, I’ve been a long time reader but have never posted. I just wanted to say I’m sorry about your news, the ‘C’ word is always horrible. It’s great to see you seem positive about the whole process and by keeping strong, happy thoughts and a strong, happy body, you’ll be back up to scratch in no time. I will keep my fingers crossed for you. You are a true inspiration x
Hugs, Kath.
Oh Carrie, I am so incredibly sorry. I am keeping you in my thoughts!
That being said, you are incredibly strong and you absolutely will pull through. I have total faith in you
Hi Carrie, as a casual reader of your blog (I only started following you recently through Healthy Vegan Fridays) – I can’t resist sending you 100% of the love and attention you deserve in this time! I appreciate very much your open and candid thoughts in this post and agree very much with what Gena expressed up above in her comment about whether or not we have ‘control’ over something like this. Soldier on as you have and your positive attitude is admirable, truly! Wishing you every possible ounce of strength & faith
And of course, many a needed laugh… X
Carrie,
I’ve only just stumbled on your blog while looking through the list of participants in Vegan MoFo last year. Read this post and just wanted to wish you luck. Don’t let anything anybody is saying about how you got cancer get you down. When someone who is very healthy and doing everything right gets it, it scares others who are trying desperately to prevent it. Hopefully this will all be over for you soon! It’s good that you’re in such good health because that will surely help you recover quickly from the surgery.
I was so sorry to read your blog entry today. I know that the news must have been devastating you and your family. As a former oncology pharmacist and cancer patient (3 and counting…let’s hope no more but you never know) I agree that you cannot control cancer and it takes a long time to grow into a noticeable tumor. However it has been my experience professionally and personally that a positive attitude and positive lifestyle change are incredibly strong weapons in your arsenal in this battle. Regrettably often underestimated by doctors but not paramedical staff! The very action of taking control of your life is very empowering in a situation when patients often feel completely at the mercy of the medical establishment and their disease. If you have moments of fear and doubt, my advice is to feel them so they pass quickly and don’t fester. Talking about mine with my husband and close friends helped me gain perspective and strength. I consider myself to have an extremely positive outlook but every now and then those blue moments sneaked in (usually in the early hours….) during those first few days. The good news is that you have a definitive diagnosis and treatment options (no more waiting and mind games) so as I said before in a previous comment, reset your navigation and move onward on your journey of happy and healthy life. You remain in my thoughts and prayers. I’m looking forward to another kale salad recipe!
Thank you, Caroline, I will take your advice about not letting the fear and doubt fester, but to move on as quickly as possible.
Dear Carrie, my heart reaches out to you, you are in my thoughts and prayers with love. This very emotional situation reminds me of appreciating my life and body even more, I hope that it can do the same for you. I meditated after reading your words and remembered all the beaty in my life.
Love, Oly <3
Hi Carrie,
I can understand how scary this may be for you, but as you likely know there are many different kinds of thyroid cancer. Some of them have very good prognoses. (I hope that is the one you have, and you most likely do as you are a young otherwise-healthy woman). Glad to know your family and friends have rallied around you.
(((Carrie)))
Shocked to hear that you have thyroid cancer, but like you, encouraged to hear that it is very treatable and you are a great role model in that you have built up your immunity with the superfoods that you eat. We’re on this journey with you!
Carrie,
As a nurse, and experienced with working with those diagnosed and surviving cancer, I can tell you this is MOST beatable!! And you are in such a good place with your lifestyle, your attitude, and the tremendous support you have. Look ahead girl, with confidence!!!
Fondly, Karen
Thanks, Karen, I needed to hear that, it helps a lot!
Oh Carrie!!! Hugs and kisses! You are strong and you will beat this, and then you will have an even more important story and voice. The silver lining is that you don’t have to start changing your lifestyle and eating habits now . . . you already know what your body needs! That’s not the situation for most people diagnosed with this, I’m sure!
Hi Carrie,
When I was 15 I went through a slew of tests to determine whether or not I had thyroid cancer. All of the scans and biopsies came back inconclusive, but I had a nodule you could see when looking at my neck, and my mom had had thyroid cancer when she was in her early 30′s (speaking to what you said about a genetic link). Anyway, my mom’s cancer was a breeze, and it turned out my nodule was benign (only determined after half my thyroid was removed so I am on suppressant/replacement medication for life). Just wanted to send you some words of encouragement, because as far as cancers go, thyroid is a pretty easy one to deal with. Hope everything goes well for you!
Hi Carrie,
I’m sorry to hear about your diagnosis but very happy and inspired to hear about the support and strength you have found.. and that your recovery is so promising.
My positive thoughts go with you.
Em
Carrie,
I have no idea how I missed this post on Wednesday. I am in shock. However, I’m positive that you will beat this 100%. I think that your diet and lifestyle will surely have an amazing impact on your healing and empower you to take on the world.
I’m thinking of you and sending you the most positive vibes. Feel good, rest, and juice!
Lauren
http://www.brooklynnatural.blogspot.com
Thanks, Lauren!!!
Carrie,
I am just now going through my reader for the last few days that I’ve missed so I just saw this post. I am so sorry that you are having to go through this. You positive attitude, as well as your plant strong diet will surely have a huge impact on your recovery. Take care of yourself and know that my thoughts are with you.
Thanks, Debbie, I very much appreciate the note.
I have NO doubt whatsoever that you will be happy, healthy and cancer free very soon – you seem like such a strong and mindful person that this cancer has not a chance!
I always think that attitude has such a huge impact of healing – mind set and positivity is way more powerful than we give it credit for…. you will be fine
Love +light + healing positivity coming your way from Australia, Carrie
Thank you, Lou!!!
Sorry this comment is so late- I’m behind with my reading but please know I wish you all the best (as always). You’re in the perfect position to fight this, you’re a strong wonderful woman who I know can see this through. If you ever need anything at all, please just say what! I know being given attention can be uncomfortable but we’re all here to help in any small way we can.
Thinking of you & sending you super healing vibes!
Lots of love, Claire xxx
Thank you, Claire, for the love and healing vibes!!!
Hi Carrie -
I just stumbled on your blog – I have an alert on “thyroid cancer” and your blog popped up today. I was diagnosed last year, and I, too, am vegan, exercise & thought that I was doing all the right things to stay healthy. Oddly, similar to you, I was diagnosed about a month after attending a yoga therapy training that focused on cancer :p
Mine was papillary TC, and I had my thyroid completely removed along with about 30 lymph nodes that all turned out to be benign. Now, 14 months later, I can say that everything has gone pretty smoothly. There’s a lot about this whole crazy experience – physical, psychological, physiological – that you will only understand when you go through it. Just know that lots of people have dealt with this, and you are not alone! I’m here and more than happy to talk with you at any time during your journey.
Huge hugs,
Julia
Hi Julia! Thank you so much for the message. I have e-mailed you to ask you a few more questions.
Hi Carrie, I wanted to offer my words of support. You have a strong, vibrant outlook on your future (to match your strong, vibrant body)! I believe your readers will continue to give you love, strength, and healing energy. We don’t really know one another but I will send prayers and healing vibes your way. Keep your beautiful spirit bright and you will soon be able to tell others how *you* won the fight. You already are winning with your outlook and good health.
Thank you so much, Dreena! Your message means a lot to me. Your “Eat, Drink & Be Vegan” book was one of my first vegan cookbooks and it was so inspiring and fantastic. I very much appreciate the words of support and the healing vibes.
Hi Carrie,
I found your blog through Dr Fuhrman’s facebook page. Cancer is indeed a very scary word and one that we never want to hear. My mother-in-law was diagnosed with Thyroid cancer 3 years ago and had to have them both removed. She goes for her yearly check up and is doing wonderful! They told her it was curable by surgery! yay! She did have to take a radioactive iodine pill after the surgery but that was all. Good luck and God bless you! I see that you are an inspiration to many.
Thank you so, so much Pamela. I love hearing stories of recovery from thyroid cancer and I’m happy to hear that your mother-in-law is doing well. Yay!
Carrie, Im so sorry to hear your news – it’s the worst thing most people can be told, Im sure – but I’m so glad to hear that it is treatable and you will soon be living your life cancer free. Sending you prayers, light, and love during this time.
Thank you so much, Heather!
How stressful for you, but I have no doubt that you will beat this very soon! Sending positive healing vibes your way…..
Thank you, Sarina!
I can’t believe it. Sending you love and strength. For what it’s worth- a girlfriend had it too- totally curable. Lives cancer-free now…as will you. Hugs.
Thanks for the note, Deb. I hope we can get together sometime early next year, maybe?
Yes! Let me know when you’re in the desert, feeling good and wanting to have lunch together! Sending you hugs.
Hugs back!!!
as the tears stream down my face i’m truly sorry that you’ve had to experience this but i’m so touched at all the love and support that you’re getting…even from Dr. F!! you are in the best position ever to get past this and come out stronger, healthier and feistier!
big hugs!
Thank you so much, Isa, and hugs back!!!
A friend of mine sent me the link to this post. You have such a wonderful outlook and that will undoubtedly make things go smoothly for you.
I had thyroid cancer and had my thyroid removed in 2005. I took it pretty badly, was negative and didn’t really appreciate how lucky I really was until a couple of years after the surgery. I only had surgery, I did not need any further treatments after the full removal of my thyroid and I just take synthroid. I actually now consider it the best thing that ever happened to me. Before, I was extremely unhealthy as I ate very terribly and did not take good care of myself. It made me a strong and healthy person. I completely changed my diet and lifestyle and haven’t looked back except to be grateful for the experience.
I wish you the best of luck, but know you will be fine =)
Kim, I am going to email you, thank you so much for reaching out to me!
Hi Carrie,
I just read about your thyroid cancer and hope you’re doing well. I too have had thyroid cancer, twice. I am fine, and live a healthy normal life.
I had it first in 1997, 16 lymph nodes removed along with two tumors.
I had the cancer for awhile because 6 years before I went to the doctor and he told me the pea sized spot in my neck was a calcium deposit. Well he was wrong.
I had the surgery and recovered well.
It came back on my vocal chord in 95, 7 nodules. Surgery went well, and all is good.
You just have to stay positive, strong and happy.
We are women and we’re tough.
I know you don’t know me, but if you have any questions please feel free to ask me.
Wishing you all the best,
Eva
Hi Eva! Thank you so, so much for your message and for letting me know that you are doing well after thyroid cancer. Wow, you are definitely a survivor and I love your attitude about being tough, positive, strong and happy. I am really nervous about my surgery on Monday, but I just want to get it over with and then move onto the next part of my treatment. Thank you for your kind offer to answer any questions that come up, I might just take you up on that in the future. Hugs!
I was just introduced to your blog via the thyca Facebook page. I had my TT in March of 2010. I had papillary and have been fine since. You can barely see my scar and my endo says I am very healthy-healthier than I have ever been, probably even prior to getting cancer as it turned me into a health nut and a very regular exerciser. The only issues I had were regarding getting my Synthroid levels adjusted. I had never in my life been on any medication and I am hyper sensitive to it. I can’t take any form of cough meds/cold meds as they make my heart race. As they have to keep the dose of Synthroid pretty high after your surgery to keep cancer from returning, it can be a shock to some people’s bodies. I had issues with heart palpitations and panic attacks for the first few months and was placed on a beta blocker. Yet, that is the only issue I ever had. It meant I can no longer have caffeine but that is ok. In the grand scheme of things and seeing what some of my friends have gone through with other cancers, I feel like I had it very easy. I hope all goes well for you tomorrow. You will be fine. I look forward to reading your blog and trying out some of your recipes!
Thanks for the awesome message, Barbara! I am home now and doing pretty well. I’m glad to hear you are doing well and thanks for sharing the info about your experience.
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