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R4

R4
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Just a little about myself , 20 years and 11 months ago I had a heart transplant. Every thing went very well, I was warned about being susectable to cancer, especially as time went on. About 6 Yers ago I had bladder cancer, which has now been in remission about 3 years. I later developed skin cancer at various times, mainly on the head. The top of my head, I had to have a skin graft, best haircut I have ever had all on the NHS. Recently on a routine call from the doctor,I mentioned about hard lump on my neck. I went in for an examination. Very quickly I had an examination, a biopsy was taken.The doctor was very good, he explained what he believed what was the cause was and the possible outcome, head scan was arranged and two weeks later a full body scan. It came back that I have cancer that appears to have started in the Lymph nodes and rapidly into my bones. An operation was not an option, but I have started treatment which may help to make my life a bit more comfortable.  It is terminal,I know I going to die because of the cancer. I remained calm and positive, I have had nearly 21 years extra life because of the heart transplant. 

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    Hi R4,

    I see that you have only recently joined us, so welcome. It sounds as if you have been dealt a pretty rotten hand in life. I am glad to hear that you have had 21 years since your heart transplant. My husband had a quadruple by-pass 12 years ago and, is now in heart failure. There is a strong chance that his heart will take him one day, but we never know. His youngest brother, who was the fittest of the family, was found dead in bed last year, cause still unknown. i have had 2 bouts of breast cancer in the past 11 years, yet we're still podding on and, thankful for each new day.

    It is always difficult to accept the inevitable, but you sound pretty positive about it all, although I'm sure that you have your darker days too. I am glad to hear that you have started treatment and, i sincerely hope that this helps.

    You will find that there are a number of great people on this site who are in a similar position and, I hope that some of them will come along to chat to you soon. Do please keep in touch and, remember that we are always here for you.

    Kind regards,

    Jolamine xx

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    Hi R4,

    I'm really sorry to hear about your terminal diagnosis. Your positivity will help you throughout your treatment and it's good to hear that your heart transplant has given you many happy years.

    Do you mind if I ask, is your cancer a progression of one of your earlier cancers and what treatment are you on? I only have knowledge of skin cancer, particularly melanoma and it's treatments.

    Take care and kind regards,

    Angie

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    Hi R4.

    Mines a bit different to you, i was diagnosed Feb 2016, prostate Cancer gone to lymph nodes, spine, ribs pelvis and a lung, been on palliative care since just living with my uninvited guest. Had chemo to steady it down a bit and on permanent hormone therapy for life to try to help stop it.

    I've found keeping positive and keep fighting helps. 

    I have to anyway I'm looking after my disabled wife she needs 24 /7 care she has Alzheimers and parkinsons plus other problems.

    Hope others will join you soon to talk as jolamine says there are some on the forum. Still going strong. 

    Best wishes for the future. 

    Billy

    P.s did Dr say it was terminal or is it possible it could be palliative. 

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