Hello, I would like to tell my story of how I came to be diagnosed, this may help somebody who is starting the process of investigations.
October 2019
I went to the doctor as has symptoms of an ear infection... given antibiotics, beconase nasal spray and hayfever tablets to try and unclog my ear tube. All was fine and asked to come back if not cleared by end of Jan 2020... fast forward Jan came and went still not cleared. Forgot to go back due to working and Covid-19 happening at work (HR).
March 2020
I eventually phoned GP to go and see him but due to restrictions I could only talk on the phone. He referred me under the two week rule as suspected tumor blockingbthe tube.
April 2020
I had my appointment with the cancer ENT consultant on the 1st April, the weekend before I felt a lump on my neck... very small one and wouldn't of noticed it without prodding around. I had a camera up my nose to check for anything but luckily nothing was found for the fluid blockage. Surgery will be needed if it doesn't clear, consultant felt my neck and recommended a scan to get it checked out. Given a prescription of nasal drops... also had a pre existing hearing loss in other ear which turns out is otosclerosis... surgery to make it better. Went home and waited for the scan.
One week later I get the appointment and 6 days later I went for my scan, all looked fine to start with but then I get told I have an abnormal looking node and a nodule on my thyroid. My original node that was poking out looks fine but the other node was a concern. I had a FNA biopsy done, two samples taken, (only felt the anesthetic injections). Told 2 weeks for the results. Following week had call to say samples was inconclusive as was much debris. Got another appointment 1week later to repeat it, had it done with another 3 samples taken - again didn't hurt ( tender and sore for 2 days after). Missed the call 9 days after as phone was playing up. Called secretary to find out if results were back, told I would get a call, I received an appointment letter the next day to come in on 12th May.
May 2020
Arrived for the appointment with the consultant and another lady sat in the room (Macmillan nurse - didn'tknow who she was until got told i had cancer and i was alone for this appointment due to covid-19). I was told that there was cancer cells in my lymph nodes (where they biopsied) and i have papillary thyroid cancer! Shocked but somewhat had an idea it was bad.
Have a lovely Macmillan nurse and support worker who have been lovely and waiting for my surgery to remove my whole thyroid and cancerous lymph nodes and expect to have radioactive iodine treatment after. It is treatable which is great and reassure that type of cancer is the best form of cancer to have as it is very treatable and no chemo involved. Yay get to keep my hair.
I can tell you that waiting was the worst part and now I know I feel a slight form of relief but having the cancer is still lingering. Telling my boys was okay as i avoided the c as ncer word but telling other members of my family has been the hardest.
You are never alone in this and you will always be supported. If you have any question please feel free to ask. :). Covid 19 has not impacted my cancer diagnosis or treatment so far so please don't be afraid of getting the results.
