Cancer, and me.

hedonist

I wanted to share this here, as I've come to know and grow fond of some of you over these many years.

So, I recently found out I have it.

It's stage 2 or 3 throat cancer (upcoming PET scan will determine its "class" and whether it's spread beyond the lymph nodes in my throat).  I know this is part of life; I'm not so special to think I would be passed by...if that makes sense.

Because of the cirrhosis, we're hesitant to go the surgery/radiation route (plus I'd much prefer to keep my lymph nodes along with other body parts), which would mean radiation five times a week for eight weeks, along with low-dose chemo.  Should be starting in the next couple of weeks.

It's funny, I'm nervous but not.  I know that after the past almost-five years and how far I've come since, I can handle this next step on my journey to....?  Well, I will handle it.  I'm fortunate to have a rock of a husband and great team of doctors.  I've also had wonderful examples of grace under this kind of pressure from people I know/knew and admire, from my late father and cousin, to another cousin, and our very own Wob.

So, that's it for now

Malroth

You are special.

hedonist

Malroth said:

You are special.

Thanks, Mal. If I am, then everyone is

pjhawks

good luck with everything.  You seem to have such a positive attitude and it’s wonderful you have such a good support team.  Be well 

mickeyrat

one foot in front of the other......

hedonist

Thanks, guys.

mickey, at least I’m sure this won’t send me back to the booze!

Spunkie

I know Hedo, your a hell of a girl. Let us know how your Jewish holiday celebration you were looking forward to goes. That's nice that you light candles for your dad (and other reasons including faith). I'm glad you have faith to lean into and gain strength and serenity from.

We're here for you when you need us. I have come to love and appreciate you, especially your quick wit, good temper, wisdom, intelligence, humor, and artistic expressive flair.

Hugs girlfriend ❤ 

bootlegger10

My dad beat throat cancer 23 years ago.   He also did the radiation/chemo treatment.  He had an amazing spouse by his side and it sounds like you do too.  You got this!

1ThoughtKnown

Wishing you nothing but the best.  Keep up the good fight h! 

GlowGirl

You are a warrior, Hedo. You definitely got this!! It sounds like you have a wonderful support system at home. But you have us as well. Keep that positive attitude. 

F Me In The Brain

Know how strong you are, and who you have at your side there.  We are with you each step.
Much love, my friend.

Purple Fairy Tree

Sorry to hear this. Stay strong, we're all here for you xxx

tempo_n_groove

This was heavy and thx for sharing with us all.  I am extending good thoughts and a virtual hug your way Hedo.

Merkin Baller

Fuck cancer, kick it's ass, Hedo. 

OffSheGoes35

I think you're capable of spontaneous remission, but yeah the radiation/chemo is a solid backup plan. You will prevail, lady.

dankind

Throat cancer is no match for a Jedi.

You’ve got this!

Gern Blansten

So sorry you are dealing with this...best wishes to you. Fight it hard!

a5pj

Thinking of you. Lean on your support. Kick it's ass.

Cliffy6745

Sorry to hear you are dealing with this but best wishes to you and yours. You got it!

Wobbie

damn, hedo

I’m confused by your first post….you are or are not going the radiation/surgery route? I remember being half pissed when I was being “mapped” for radiation and being told to move centimeters in this direction and that. And then I realized how lucky I was to have access to this multi-million dollar machine. Same with the PET scan.

with a great team and great medicine, you’ll beat this! I asked a nurse if a great attitude could cure me….he said, “no, but a bad attitude will kill you.” So, I kept my usual sunny outlook on life!

hedonist

You all make me….smile.

And leave me at a goddamn loss for words.

Seriously, thank you

hedonist

Wobbie said:

damn, hedo

I’m confused by your first post….you are or are not going the radiation/surgery route? I remember being half pissed when I was being “mapped” for radiation and being told to move centimeters in this direction and that. And then I realized how lucky I was to have access to this multi-million dollar machine. Same with the PET scan.

with a great team and great medicine, you’ll beat this! I asked a nurse if a great attitude could cure me….he said, “no, but a bad attitude will kill you.” So, I kept my usual sunny outlook on life!

Oh, Mr. Sunshine

Treatment will be two of the following: surgery, radiation, chemo. Surgery itself is a bit risky given the state of my body, so it looks like radiation and chemo will be the way to
go.

I just want to get it going already so I can kick that fucker to the curb.

Merkin Baller

mfc2006

So sorry to read this. That being said, your attitude and support group will help you immensely. Sending best wishes to you, Hedo. Kick its ASS! 

Loujoe

Life is sooooo full of everything. Thanks for sharing this with my dumb a... Lots of whatever you need whenever you need it. 

hedonist

eeriepadave

praying for the best

Poncier

Sorry to hear this news Hedo. But you can will beat this. Your attitude seems to be where it should...take the fucker head on and beat it.
I look forward to you joining me, Wobbie and others as official "survivors". Sounds like your husband is great support, which is awesome. We are all happy to be your online support.

Asterisk on the Street

Wishing you all the best. My thoughts are with you.

Wobbie

poncier…..you’re still my nemesis…..but I didn’t realize you also had gone through this.

morning for hedo, too.

mickeyrat

Wobbie said:

poncier…..you’re still my nemesis…..but I didn’t realize you also had gone through this.

morning for hedo, too.

keep your distance. she'll  be immunocompromised.

wave from over there....