Well, it's not good news.

[Longhorn]

I have cervical cancer. I don't know what stage yet but some spots showed up on my lungs so I'm getting another CT-scan first thing in the morning. It's inoperable (I need to find out more about why) so I'll be having both chemotherapy and radiation therapy, but those details are still not set until we find out if it has spread. My treatments could begin by the end of the week. I don't know how often or how long but the nurse thought I'd still be able to work if I schedule them so that it will be the weekend when I feel lousy.

It occurred to me tonight on the way home from teaching that I don't have any better idea when I'm going to die than when I get in my car every day. All I know right now is that I'm facing some uncomfortable medical treatments and I think I'm up to it.

Thanks for all the wonderful support! I'll be checking out the cancer group next. :)

First post on this: http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=105&topic_id=7526347&mesg_id=7526347

[ThomCat]

1. I'm very, very sorry about this news.

I've been hoping you were going to be able to post that it was benign. :(

I'm sending all the positive thoughts and can. :hug:

[Longhorn]

4. Thanks, Thomcat.

I didn't get to reply to you on the other thread so I'm glad I get a chance to say thank you now. I believe in positive thoughts and I appreciate receiving them from you! :hug:

[lost-in-nj]

2. this is more important than anything here

and I want to kick it....

I wonder when I get in my car to....
or when I wake up

I am humbled by your grace here....



:hug:
lost

[Longhorn]

12. Thanks very kind, lost.

You know what they say -- if we change how we live our lives, the terrorists win! ;)

No sense feeling sorry for myself -- it won't help and I'm not the first to face such a challenge. When I first got the news that it was even a possibility, I took a quick look at my life and realized that I have few regrets. I'm much better off than the young men and women who served in Iraq and are facing life with head injuries or missing limbs or severe burns, or even worse, no longer facing life. So I just want to stay physically strong, keep teaching, and hopefully beat this. :hug:

[Midlodemocrat]

3. Cervical cancer is a slow growing cancer.

God willing, it was caught early and you will go on to live a long, healthy life.

You are in my thoughts and prayers. :hug:

[Longhorn]

14. That's good to know!

Hopefully, I'll have a better idea tomorrow whether it was detected early -- it SHOULD be since I had a normal PAP just a year ago. Thanks so much for your encouragement! :hug:

[Midlodemocrat]

15. Hang in there and come to the lounge for support. We're here for you.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

22. You all have already helped me more than you know!

:hug:

[KitchenWitch]

5. I am so sorry for your news. Might I suggest a book?

"Love, Medicine, and Miracles" by Dr. Bernie Siegel.

He is an oncologist and the book is about the mind-body connection with regards to cancer treatment. I found it really helpful.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

16. Thank you! I'll definitely get it!

I truly believe we can affect our healing so it would be good to get some ideas on how to do it! Great advice! :hug:

[KitchenWitch]

24. PM me if you need to.

[Longhorn]

38. Thanks!

I hope your daughter is feeling better and that you got some rest! :hi:

[redwitch]

69. You already have the right attitude!

:hug: You're pretty wonderful and I am rooting for you to beat this thing!

[lildreamer316]

114. YES! My mother, who had cancer THREE times and survived the first 2 times for 20+ years, loved it!

I will run through my bookshelf (her bookshelf!) and see what else I can rec.
She had ovarian cancer when I was three, and breast cancer when I was six. She was in remission until the late 90s, and passed from lung cancer in the first days of '04 at 69.
SHe loved that book, and was a firm believer in the positive attitude and visualization approach.
I'll be thinking about you...:hug:

[JohnnyLib2]

6. Tough, tough news.

The cancer forum can be a big boost.

Will be thinking about you. :pals:

[Longhorn]

18. I look forward to chatting with them.

I'm sure there's a lot of knowledge and experience there that can be helpful and comforting for me. Thanks! :hug:

[BarenakedLady]

7. I'm sorry the diagnosis wasn't better.

You are in my thoughts.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

20. Thank you!

I truly appreciate it! :hug:

[Fran Kubelik]

8. Oh shit. That isn't good news.

:hug:

Your perspective is pretty amazing though. I am in awe.

[Longhorn]

23. Well, I've got a husband and four grown kids who will go to pieces

if I don't stay strong (though I'll let it out if I need to!) I may be bitchier than normal but I don't think anyone would notice. ;)

:hug:

[Swede]

9. I don't know what to say Longhorn.

I will pray for you.

[Longhorn]

25. Thank you!

:hug:

[SKKY]

10. If it was caught early enough, you'll be fine...

...My family sends you our best wishes. :grouphug:

[Longhorn]

27. That's certainly my hope!

I rarely missed a PAP all these years -- that should count for something! :)

:hug:

[graywarrior]

11. I'll be sending positive vibes your way.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

28. It's already working!

:) :hug:

[graywarrior]

30. Just remember...

cancer is not a death sentence. I'll be pulling for you.

[Longhorn]

33. That's exactly my attitude!

I've got a brother who was diagnosed as HIV-positive 13 years ago and he's doing great. He got some good medicine and I will, too! :)

[graywarrior]

36. Half the battle is attitude.

You'll be fine.

[Haole Girl]

13. I sure wish you'd gotten better news...

Still, it has to be a good sign that they'll treat it, right?

You seem very brave, and I have a feeling you are strong, too.

All the best to you in this fight. My friend, from work, went through something similar, two years ago... they never did operate but the radiation and chemo got most of it. She is doing very well... I just talked with her today, in fact.

You might want to make a list of questions for your doctor. It helps me, remember what I want to ask, when I go in.

Hold on!

:hug:

[Longhorn]

29. I don't know about brave but definitely determined!

:) Thanks for sharing about your friend! I hope I do as well as she has. :hug:

[Maestro]

17. Strength be with you.

I am sorry to hear about the diagnosis, but now that you know, the fight begins. Stay strong and you are in my thoughts.

[Longhorn]

31. Thanks, Maestro!

The concert was really great, by the way. Some members of the Austin Traditional Jazz Society, which sponsored the concert, got to jam with the band on the last couple of pieces. There's nothing more amazing to me than watching people of all ages and walks of life getting together for no other reason than to share their love of music! :)

[Maestro]

115. Glad you enjoyed it

PM me if you have questions about treatment. I went through a type of radiation treatment with radioactive iodine, but I think that yours will be different. There are some excellent resources besides your doctors of course on the web about cancer treatments. It is certainly not the way it used to be in the past.

[karmaqueen]

19. I am so sorry to hear this.....

You are so right about not knowing when we will go. I have 2 friends who were told the had very little time left. One of them found homes for all her animals, got every thing in order and here it is 10 years later & she is fine. The other was given 6 weeks and out lived her husband , sister, a bunch of friends and died at the age of 88 of something else. May you have strength to get through the medical stuff you need to and then live a long happy life, I have a feeling you will! I will be thinking & praying for you.

[Longhorn]

37. It ain't over till it's over, right?

I haven't been given any prognosis but I pretty much have things in order so I don't really want to know. My self-fulfilling prophecy is that I'm going to die of old age, like all of the other women in my family before me. :)

Thanks, Hon! :hug:

[BuelahWitch]

21. I am sorry Longhorn

:hug: Good vibes coming your way.

[Longhorn]

39. Thanks!

If I'm feeling lousy on the weekend, maybe I'll be able to watch some old movies -- comedies so that I benefit from laughing. :) :hug:

[lightningandsnow]

26. Oh honey...

So sorry to hear that. :hug:

I sincerely hope everything turns out for the best. You have a strong spirit, and I have faith that you can get through this.

Let us know how it all goes, ok?

[Longhorn]

40. I'll do that, thanks!

You're very kind. :hug:

[cordelia]

32. So very sorry.

This is not what I had hoped for or expected.

Sending you and yours positive thoughts as hard and fast as I can.

[Longhorn]

42. Yes, I think I had convinced myself that this wasn't going to turn out this way.

In fact, I was anticipating being a little embarrassed to come back to the Lounge and say, "False alarm." Silly me! :silly:

My daughter said today that it was such a shock because "other people get cancer" and I said, "Yes, that was my reaction when I had twins!" (She's one of the twins.) :)

[SallyMander]

34. Oh, Longhorn, what a long day you must've had!

I am sending healthy vibes your way... your attitude is amazing and truly inspiring. I hope this process can be as easy on you as possible!

:hug: :hug: :hug:

[Longhorn]

44. It's been a doozy, that's for sure!

I taught two classes, then dashed up to my appointment. I was there all afternoon with various tests and the exam. Then I had an hour at home fixing some issues on our computer and then had to drive 45 minutes away and back to teach a class! I convinced my husband to go ahead and go to band practice so it's me and the dogs right now -- and all of my kind and supportive DU buddies! :grouphug:

Thanks! :hug:

[SallyMander]

47. Not as much fun as a DUzy

Seriously, if i were you i would probably be having a really large pity-party for myself right about now... :yourock:

:hug: :loveya: :hug:

[Longhorn]

51. Well, there's still time for that!

:)

I'm not clever enough for a DUzy but I sure enjoy reading then and I got credit for referring one once. :D

[ulysses]

35. sorry to hear it, Longhorn.

Keep your chin up. :hug:

[Longhorn]

45. Okay, I will!

Thanks! :hug:

[FloridaJudy]

41. I'm so sorry.

Sometimes they do chemo/radiation first in oder to shrink the tumor enough that operating has a good chance. I certainly wish the news had been better.

I'll keep you in my prayers.

[Longhorn]

48. The nurse did mention that they might start with one

(I can't remember which) and then add the other. Or they might do both at the same time. My gynecologist said it wouldn't be operable because it bleeds so much but I'm not sure if that's the official reason.

Thanks for thinking of me! :hug:

[The Velveteen Ocelot]

43. Hoping for the best for you.

:hug: Hang in there... :hug:

[Longhorn]

53. I plan to!

Thanks! :hug:

[TK421]

46. Please hang in there...I'm sorry to hear the news, but know there are some

options out there....never lose hope. I saw your last post, but never got to respond, I'm sorry.


You will be in my thoughts :toast:

[Longhorn]

54. Even the older statistics show a decent five-year survival rate.

I'm sure they're making improvements all the time. Thanks! I think I'll join you! :toast:

[TK421]

64. Please do join me...and do plan on being around much longer than

five years...I think you will :thumbsup:

[Lex]

49. Longhorn, damn. That's tough, but you are tougher, I say.

We're here for you. I know it's 'just' the internet, but we are your friends here. :pals:

[Longhorn]

55. I'm definitely feeling the friendship

and it really, really helps! Thanks! :hug:

[Lex]

103. One more hug for you before

I turn in tonight. :hug:

Thinking of you and sending super-sonic good vibes.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

50. My dear Longhorn...

Oh, sweetie...

I am so very sorry to hear this...

We've got your back, OK?

:hug:

[Longhorn]

57. Thanks, Peggy!

What I love about the lounge is that it's open, 24-7, and there are lots of good people here. :hug:

[DemoTex]

52. Hang Dear! I assume M.D. Anderson is in on this.

If not .. get thee there!

[Longhorn]

58. My mother suggested that, too.

I'm going to ask my doctor about it tomorrow. I'm currently going to the Southwest Regional Cancer Center in Austin. Thanks!

[DemoTex]

62. NO! Get an immediate referral to M.D. Anderson if you can.

Waste no time in the mid-range. Don't ASK your doctor tomorrow. Take the initiative and TELL her/him.

[Longhorn]

71. There's really that much difference?

I don't even know how I'd go about it. Would my oncologist give me a referral? Wouldn't it take time to get an appointment, get started with treatment? My insurance wouldn't pay for a PET scan, which is why I'm getting another CT-scan.

Are you talking about a second opinion or the actual treatment? I know so little about all of this!

Thanks!

[flvegan]

56. Nice thing is that Longhorn can beat it.

That's the shit right there.

Right?

[Longhorn]

59. Right!

:D

Thanks! :hi:

[flvegan]

63. So you've got it in your heart and mind that you can and will

beat it, right?

You are, indeed, convinced of this, yes?

[Longhorn]

65. Yes, actually, I can't imagine anything else

and won't allow myself to.

[flvegan]

70. Congrats, you own it.

You're 10 steps ahead of everyone else.

*applause*

[Pushed To The Left]

60. I'm very sorry to hear that. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way

:hug: We are all pulling for you!

[Longhorn]

66. Thanks, I really appreciate that!

:hug:

[BeachBaby]

61. I'll give you a reason to think positive.....

my best friend's mom was diagnosed with what I believe was Stage Four cervical cancer. Advanced stages. Inoperable.

That was September, 1983.

Almost 25 years later, she's still here, driving my girlfriend insane. :)

You'll be fine, honey. Thinking about you. :hug:

[Longhorn]

67. Wow!

There's bound to have been advancements in the last 25 years! Thanks for sharing that! :hug:

[Tuesday Afternoon]

68. sorry to read this. Hang tough.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

73. Thank you!

:hug:

[CreekDog]

72. I wish for you successful treatements, confidence and strength

I hope we can help you laugh here as you go through this.

:hug:

[Longhorn]

74. The Lounge has always been good for a few laughs

as long as I can avoid getting rick-rolled (again)! ;) (How many 52-year-olds do you know who know what that means? :rofl:) And just a few weeks ago, I figured out "more cowbell!" :D

Thanks so much! :hug:

[LeftyFingerPop]

75. Stay strong....

try to keep a good attitude, and fight it hard. I have a good feeling that everything will be ok. One day at a time. :hug:

[Longhorn]

77. I was just visiting the cancer group.

How's your friend doing?

And thanks! :hug:

[LeftyFingerPop]

82. Thank you for asking...

It's a long story....but quite well!!

Diagnosed as a very rare, slow growing type of cancer that can be treated with a non-chemotherapy type of drug.

The doctor told my friend "it won't be this cancer that kills you".

Doc is very optimistic. The drug has some side effects, but overall health is improving already.

So many advances have been made in the past few years....my very best wishes to you.

[Longhorn]

86. That's fantastic!

I've loved hearing success stories and now even more so (obviously!) Thanks! :hi:

[Robeson]

76. Think positive, Longhorn...

...I KNOW you can beat this...:hug:

[Longhorn]

78. Thanks, I'll sure give it my best!

Right now, I've got to get something to eat even though I don't feel like it -- but I haven't eaten much all day and my body needs some protein!

:hug:

[Shakespeare]

79. I'm sorry the news wasn't better, but you have a great attitude.

Stay focused on that, and being well, and accepting the love (and help) of those around you. And don't ever forget we're all here for you!

[Longhorn]

84. Hopefully, y'all won't get sick of me!

;)

Thanks so much! :hug:

[Shakespeare]

88. Not a chance, sweetie.

In fact, we'll be MOST unhappy if you don't keep us updated! :hug:

[Longhorn]

91. Yes, Ma'am!

I might even be able to find something else to talk about from time to time. :) :hug:

[xchrom]

80. take care of yourself -- and let those who love you

step up and take care of you too.

you have everyone's best wishes here -- especially me -- i've had to do chemo -- but not radiation.

we're all with you here!

[Longhorn]

85. The nurse said they have good anti-nausea drugs these days.

I hope she's right! And I'm to eat six small high-protein meals a day. I had Lap-band surgery in November so I already eat like that (and I've lost 30 pounds.)

I hope you're doing well! :hug: Thanks! :hi:

[TexasBushwhacker]

134. They do have good anti-nausea drugs

but I've been told nothing works as well as pot. I begged my mother to try it when she was going through chemo for breast cancer, but she wouldn't.

I'm in Austin, so we're practically next door neighbors. PM me if you need anything, really.

[Longhorn]

156. Thanks for the suggestion!

Believe it or not, it would be a first for me. B-)

[skygazer]

81. I'm sorry to hear this news

And my best wishes and continued support to you. Positive thoughts. :hug:

[Longhorn]

87. Thanks for caring.

It truly means a lot to me! :hug:

[otherlander]

83. I'm so sorry.

:hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug::hug:

I hope they caught it early...

[Longhorn]

90. I'd feel very luck if they did

and I usually consider myself lucky in the ways that count -- no lottery winnings but a beautiful family. And now a bunch of great online friends, like you! Thanks! :hug:

[StrongBad]

89. Wishing you the best in your fight against this

Given your attitude and determination I think you've got great odds on your side.

Good vibes comin' your way...

[Longhorn]

92. I may have been training for this all my life and didn't know it,.

I'm not a Pollyanna but I'm generally optimistic because I'm too stubborn to be otherwise. :)

Thanks so much! :hug:

[CBHagman]

93. Oh, Longhorn.

I am so very sorry, and I wish you peace of mind and strength during the treatments you are about to receive.

Your presence of mind and straightforwardness and courage are inspirational to behold.

[Longhorn]

95. I appreciate hearing from you, CB!

Your words honor me far too much but they certainly mean a lot to me. I guess I don't think I have a choice but to take what comes -- I'm too afraid to find out how it would feel to give in. Thanks so much! :hug:

[CBHagman]

99. Again, I appreciate your clarity of vision.

:hug: Hang in there and be with us and know that we're all pulling for you.

[riderinthestorm]

94. The DU Cancer Support group is the best!

Even when your diagnosis is the worst....

I am so sorry to hear about your diagnosis. It's pretty incredible that they believe you can start treatment so early... the earlier the better.

I am hoping you have a tangible support group, as well as DU groups, to help you through. Check out the American Cancer Association for a lot of links for even more help.

There are a lot of people here to lean on when times are rough. :hug:

[Longhorn]

96. I saw that there is a support group at my center

but it meets while I'm teaching class. Maybe I can get there late or start going when this semester is over. Thanks for the advice! I haven't posted in the Cancer Support group yet but I added it to my groups and will check in later. For now, I need to get to bed -- my CT-scan is at 8 a.m. and I'm not a morning person. :)

:hug:

[Fox Mulder]

97. Oh no...

I'm so sorry. :( :hug:

[grace0418]

98. I can't offer much except healing vibes and

lots of :hug:. Good luck with your treatment Longhorn. Keep us updated. We'll be thinking of you.

[Zephyrbird]

100. Crap. All I can say is,

:hug: :hug: :hug: :hug:

I think the shock is the worst. Then when you find out just what it is, you can hunker down for the fight. Please let us know how it's going. We're your brothers and sisters here.

Zephyr

:hug:

[Sheltiemama]

101. Many hugs.

Imagine all of us standing behind you, supporting you.

[fortyfeetunder]

102. Hang in there...

Good vibes to you Longhorn.

From reading your posts, I can tell you will "DU" just fine!

:hug:

[Flaxbee]

104. shit.

The treatments you can handle, no doubt. My sister is about your age and just weathered chemo, major surgery, and radiation therapy (in the midst of which she had to evacuate her home because of the recent soCal fires). She also finished her dissertation during that time.

There were days she felt bad, physically - be prepared to have less energy. And some emotional days, but she just put her head down and got through it, and it sounds like you have the emotional and psychological strength to face the treatments, too.

:hug: I was so hoping you had fibroids! I found the cancer group to be very helpful as I was wondering how to help my sister. It's a great group.

[crim son]

105. Dear Longhorn

I hope you know that your DU friends will always be here to support you. Your positive attitude is admirable but we love you, however you feel. I wish you strength, and luck, and health.

[SeattleGirl]

106. Oh Longhorn!

Love and prayers to you as you undergo treatment. May you have the absolute BEST outcome. :hug:

[RFKHumphreyObama]

107. My thoughts, prayers, best wishes, positive vibes, healing energies, peace

and whatever else good I can extend to you goes out to you at the moment:hug: :hug: :hug:

[emilyg]

108. Fight.

I'm a cancer survivor. Love to you.

[auntAgonist]

109. all the best vibes I have are yours.

I just got home from work and saw this. PM on the way.

prayers and good thoughts Longhorn.


aA
kesha

[devilgrrl]

110. Sending good vibes your way.

:hug:

[Manifestor_of_Light]

111. I sent you a PM about treatments.

A doctor (a real M.D.) told me about an alternative treatment that works that is cheap and simple. He said M.D. Anderson knows about it, but refuses to use it.

Good luck whatever you do!!!

[Skittles]

112. you can kick cancer ass, Longhorn!

you can! Your attitude sounds great for someone receiving such hideous news. It tells me you can win! WE ARE HERE FOR YOU!!!

[donheld]

113. I'm so very sorry

:hug:

[tpsbmam]

116. I'm so sorry......

May your treatment course be as easy as possible and that wonderful attitude of your carry you though any tough times you may have. You're right -- none of us know, as much as we try to go through our lives denying that. My thoughts are with you!

[TZ]

117. Sorry to hear about this

I agree with above posters...MD Anderson is a great place for cancer treatments.
Also, it might be helpful to look at clinical trials in your area. There is an awful lot of new treatments on the horizon and if it is inoperable, looking into a trial might be your best bet.
FYI, be wary of anyone offering a cheap and easy "miracle" cure. There are a lot of snake oil merchants out there.
My best to you!
:hug:

[sarge43]

118. Longhorn, don't, repeat, don't give up.

I had cervical cancer over thirty years ago. As you can read, it can be defeated.

[sazemisery]

119. You seem to be in a good frame of mind and that is a plus.

Positive thinking and behavior are very important. The will to live is very important. We are all here for you.

[zanne]

120. You're tough enough to kick that varmint!

Just be sure to check in at DU for emotional support.

[NMDemDist2]

121. oh Longhorn!

:hug:

friends I know have found that drinking aloe vera juice can help with the 'upset tummy/can't eat' part of those treatments

I'm thinking of you and Mr Longhorn and sending best wishes for the best of outcomes

:hug:

[fight4my3sons]

122. I'm so sorry to hear your news.

I don't know what to say, but just wanted to give you a :hug: .

[soleft]

123. Sending you positive vibes

and wishing you great comfort as you begin the treatment.

[Wapsie B]

124. I am so sorry.

You can fight it! :)

Good vibes on the way.

[bertha katzenengel]

125. Hello, Longhorn

You make me wish I were in Texas so I could help. Truly. It's easy to say from across the miles, but I'd be there.

Please keep us updated, okay? You have a great attitude going in. Keep it if you can. And accept all the help and support that's offered.

:hug:

[MissMillie]

126. Longhorn, you're in my prayers

:hug:

Let us know what you need. And I mean that.

[Coyote_Bandit]

127. .

:hug:

[dropkickpa]

128. Been there,

Good luck!!

[gbate]

129. I am really sorry, Longhorn. You seem to have a pretty good attitude. Positive thoughts to you.

[Lydia Leftcoast]

130. What distressing news!

Take good care of yourself. :hug:

[momophile]

131. sending good vibes your way

hang in there. please take care of yourself.

[BobMorr]

135. prayers and good vibes

I'm sorry, you have a great attitude. My prayers and good vibes are coming your way. :hug:

[ceile]

132. I'm so sorry.

I hope they caught it in time. Stay strong and lean on us when you need to!
:hug:

[Andrea]

133. My prayers are with you

I don't even know you, but I wish you the best.

[Taverner]

136. I'm so very sorry

:hug:

[applegrove]

137. Very sorry. Sending you vibes.

[Akoto]

138. I won't offer you any sorries, since ...

I know you'll make it through just fine! ;)

I was recently diagnosed with a chronic pain condition, myself. It's nothing like cancer, but it can't be cured. I've had such anxiety over it, to the point of trembling in bed all night, though I will get past that. I'm finding determination, positive thinking and an available doctor to be very helpful.

[mwdem]

139. I'm so sorry to hear this, Longhorn.

I hope the treatments work, and you have a speedy recovery. I went through uterine cancer last year, breast cancer the year before. I'm still here and as ornery as ever! Just be positive and strong.:hug:

[puerco-bellies]

140. I am so sorry to hear that.

Best wishes.

[kimmerspixelated]

141. Please consider what a naturopath might offer

which would mostly be extreme nutrional therapy. I hate to see anyone have to go the chemo route without knowing they may have other options. Best wishes.

[GOPisEvil]

142. Well that sucks.

Kick its ass! Hard! :pals:

[Bunny]

143. I'm sorry, Longhorn.

But hopefully you caught it early, and this can have a speedy resolution. :hug:

[NC_Nurse]

144. I'm so sorry, Longhorn.

Please take good care of yourself and keep us updated. I hope your treatments go well.

:hug:

[Mike03]

145. Cervical Cancer

Everyone handles this hell of cancer in different ways. If you are kind of person who wants to know everything, gather sources and keep up to date with the cutting edge news, please check out this site that has been so helpful to me these past six months.

Google on "Vital Options" or "Group Room".

Check out the recorded archives of the radio program The Group Room, because this show has done many, many programs about female-related cancers. The host, Selma, is a three-time survivor or breast and ovarian and possibly cervical cancer.

My sister's best friend has been struggling on and off again with cervical cancer scares. It has not metastasized yet, luckily.

My heart goes out to you. You sound very strong, and strong can make a difference.

[Pale Blue Dot]

146. Inoperable?

You need to ask lots of questions about that one. In my experience thus far (I'm an RN working in ob/gyn in a large tertiary care hospital), that's not the norm. I don't know you're medical history and I'm not an oncologist, but I would think a radical hysterectomy would be the first plan of care.

I'm so sorry about your news. Lots of people care about you. :hug:

edit: sorry, this is SarahBelle, not Finnfan (forgot to log him out)

[Mike03]

147. Inoperable because of the metastasis?

She said it had metastasized to her lungs.

[SarahB]

150. If there's mets

that's probably why they're recommending chemo, but usually they don't leave in the uterus and cervix when it's cancerous. Like I said, I'm not an oncologist, but I do have some experience in this. Something she needs to research and ask questions about.

[dropkickpa]

149. Nope

In stages beyond 1a (1b, 1b2 etc) hysterectomy is not always the first course of action as the uterus acts as the best location to place and hold intenal radiation rods where they are needed to shrink the tumor, and the cure rates are comparable.

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_4X_Treatment_Options_by_Stage_8.asp?rnav=cri

[SarahB]

152. I guess when I think "inoperable"

I think it's meant as surgery is not being considered. I'm not one for unnecessary surgery at all. If it's in the earlier stages (and it looks like there's a question of mets which would not be an early stage), radiation can work well, but I guess I was inferring that her physician does not want to consider surgery as an option. Again, a question for her to ask her oncologist.

[Longhorn]

157. It's a uterine sarcoma.

Surgery may be advisable in the future but for now, they want to shrink the tumor and stop the bleeding. Thanks for input! :hug:

[SarahB]

158. I'll be thinking about you.

I know it's a long road and want you to be ok. :hug:

[Shine]

148. Getting a cancer diagnosis is NOT a death sentence anymore

that said, I'm really sorry to hear this news and to know you'll be challenged with some uncomfortable medical treatments.

hang in there and know we care about you. :hug:

[Connonym]

151. :hug:

Hope your treatment goes well and you're not too uncomfortable during it.

[mike_c]

153. aw damn, longhorn-- that sucks....

Be strong and do your best to beat it! :hug:

[harmonicon]

154. oh gosh...

... I know someone who's been going through the exact same thing the past few months. All I can say as a word of encouragement is that she's doing ok, and her biggest problem is having to miss so much work (she likes her work) because of treatments. hang in there.

[Karenina]

155. Live well, Longhorn!

:hug::hug::hug: You're in my thoughts and prayers!

[femmocrat]

159. I'm really sorry, Longhorn.

I have a close friend who taught through 2 years of treatment for breast cancer. It wasn't easy, but with the newer treatments now, it is possible. I hope your treatment goes smoothly and you will soon feel much better.

:hug: Keeping you in my prayers.

[UrbScotty]

160. We are with you, dear Longhorn.

:hug:

[Dinger]

161. Thought & Prayers & Healing Being Sent Your Way Longhorn

:grouphug: :loveya:

[uppityperson]

162. I am sorry and hope your treatment goes well, and things work out for you.

Hang in there. Just because someone/someplace shows some numbers, remember someone has to be the one who extends those numbers way the heck out there. I'm glad you are healthy otherwise and hope the chemo/zapping goes easy for you.

[japple]

163. Dear Longhorn, I'll be sending some positive energies to

you from Georgia. End of March, I'll send them from much closer, when we make our annual trek to Seguin, TX to visit family. BTW, if you haven't discovered blueberry Kefir, it's a great thing to make smoothies out of and is loaded with probiotics. They have it at Kroger, so you can probably find it at HEB! Blessings and peace to you in the days ahead.