Dear All,
I've visited this thread three times but was too overcome to write anything. I'm now composed, so here goes.
I visited my doctor back in March, who diagnosed a lipoma (a benign fatty tumour) and told me to return if it grew. I also had a blood sample taken, which came back negative! However, the lump grew (actually there are two, one under my left armpit and the other over my left pectoral muscle) so I went back. He took one look at me and referred me to a surgeon. Eventually, a letter arrived for an appointment with the surgeon and from here things really started to move. Another blood sample was taken and I was booked in for an MRI scan and an ultrasound scan. There is a waiting list of up to 14 months for an MRI scan but I was seen within two days. Obviously I was considered an urgent case.
The ultrasound scan seemed to reveal that I had two large, benign bloodclots - but the MRI scan revealed differently. The surgeon told me that when I first went to see him he was concerned that I might have a sarcoma, which would have meant urgent drastic surgery which could probably entail my losing the whole of my left arm. Fortunately (??) he diagnosed that I have a lymphoma and a biopsy was taken to determine which type, which would then determine the best method of treating it. At this stage it isn't thought surgery is necessary.
The prognosis for my type of lymphoma, I was told, is usually very good. They don't expect to have to perform any surgery but to shrivel the tumour cells through drugs (chemotherapy). Obviously, such treatment might result in hair loss, but as I'm virtually bald now that aspect doesn't bother me.
They say that one in five people will contract cancer, so I'm glad another four people will be saved all the trauma and emotional pain.
Thankfully, I'm not in any pain. My left arm aches occasionally and the fingers in my hand sometimes have pins and needles (obviously a nerve is being pressed on). Otherwise, you'd think I was perfectly healthy.
I have become a vegetarian and also cut out tea, coffee and chocolate (I LOVE chocolate) in order to have a healthier diet. At the moment I can't do anything too strenuous - so it does have some advantages in that I won't have to decorate the house or dig the garden
To anyone who sent me pms or e-mails these past few weeks and I haven't replied please accept my sincere apologies, but I had other things on my mind.
All your good wishes and words of encouragement really have built up my spirits. Grace (Mouthy) was right to suggest she let you all know. You've given me an extra reason for beating this thing. Thank you, Grace!
Thank you everyone, from the bottom of my heart.
Ian
