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Bukoba
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Worried Mom of 3

4 Aug 2021 17:51

Hi Everyone

I have just joined the forum.

I just received news from my doctor today that my ca125 was elevated to 115. Eighteen months ago it was 40. He has now referred me for further investigations.

I am still very much in shock and afraid because 9 years ago my mother died of ovarian cancer at 74 years old. I am still suffering from the trauma of her death. I am 56 and my youngest is only 13 years old.

last year February, I had a spotting episode after not having a period for 20 months so I had several investigations done and they were all clear. However, the US scan showed that I had a little benign cyst on one of my ovaries. They said it was nothing to worry about and likely to disappear. I carried on with my life and remained healthy until 2 weeks ago when I started to have stomach cramps, then vomiting and diarrhoea. I put it down to a dodgy salad I ate the day before but the pain was unusually intense so went to the A&E. Gastroenteritis was diagnosed. Went back again when symptoms did not get better. They organised a CT scan. They said the CT scan only showed a tiny little stone in one of my kidneys but not an issue since all my tests were normal for kidneys. They said all internal organs looked ok. Conclusion: bad case of Gastro enteritis.

2 weeks in and I am much better but feeling a bit bloated so called doctors to request for further tests and mentioned ovarian cancer family history. Doctor now orders ca125 and full blood test that I did this morning.

Doctor called me 30 minutes ago to say ca125 has gone up from 40 (Feb 2020) to 115. platelet count has also gone up from 210 (April 2021) to 430. CRP is 15. They are referring me to a cancer hospital.

it is difficult to describe my emotions right now. Has anyone gone through a similar experience? Please get in touch. I am finding it difficult to process this information.

I look forward to hearing from someone.

 

Bukoba

 

  • Offline

    I understand not being able to process information, I was told a few days ago I have cancer and still can't come to terms with it, hence early morning awakening. 

    I am finding myself, keeping a daily journal of my feelings, thoughts and what I did to distract me from over thinking and talking to some friends with life experience of cancer is more insightful than family at times. This forum and reading other experiences both positive and negative does help.

    Everyone has to find their inner strength to fight or run away...I currently am running away but hope to turn around and fight once I know stage and grade.

    All the best.

  • Offline in reply to HB205

    Hi HB205

    sp sorry to hear about your diagnosis. I hope you find the strength to fight it and hope you win the fight.

    it is difficult not to overthink. Something that must be a complete shock to the system. Have you tried meditation? 

    I spent most of the night tossing and turning due to anxiety. I kept my Spotify meditation tracks on throughout the night so it helped me to sleep for a few hours. 

    what is the next step for you now? I am waiting for my appointment with the gynaecologists. I hope I get a quick one.

    Many people survive cancer and I hope you will be one of them.
    Take care and have a good day.

    Bukoba 
     

     

  • Offline in reply to HB205

    I am so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. Here for you if/when you need to off load. 
     

    I am due to have surgery in next 2 weeks. I have a 20cm mass on my left ovary. Causing pains in left leg, sharp pains in left side and groin. It seems to be confined so still hoping it's benign.   It's such a frightening time and I too find myself awake early hours when questions pop into my head and I find this site particularly helpful to know there are others going through the same thing. 
     

    Hoping you get some rest and some better news soon. 
    Take care

  • Offline in reply to Worriedas

    Hi.

    That sounds like a large mass, hopefully surgery will eliminate the pains you have.

    I have been avoiding any internet use as I cant help but keep on reading negative outcomes and applying to myself - A bad and hard temptation to erase. 

    Like you say, it is frightening and I have turned to meditation, faith and the support of a select few who I have shared with, unfortunately I experience good days and bad days, the good days are when I temporarily forget I have a ticking time bomb inside me. 

    I have been told I will be needing surgery and hope they do this soon. I do find sharing with others who have gone or are going through the same feels more comforting due to relatable experience.

    Good luck with your surgery, keep posting.

    Kind regards

     

     

     

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