I am scheduled for a lung biopsy next week (week of Oct 22). I gotten to this point the hard way:
July 2010: Radiation for layngeal cancer.
Nov 2011: Total Layngectomy (removal of vocal cords)
Jan 2012: More Radiation and Lite Chemo (not much nausea; no hair loss)
Oct 2012: PET Scan detected “stuff” in the lungs.
I use all three methods to regain speech after removal of vocal cords. 1) Electrolarynx: a vibrator held to neck or chin, 2) TEP voice prosthesis, a one-way valve surgically placed between the trachea and esophagus, 3) esophageal speech - “swallowing air” and burping. I consider myself “intermediate” in all three methods.
I was forcefully retired in 2008 due to the economy. I took a year off. Was a census taker in 2010. Just as I wanted to seriously look for work, laryngeal cancer struck.
I never smoked. However, I was exposed to extensive second-hand smoke during my formative years. I lived with three chain smokers, father, grandmother, and uncle. There seemed to always be two lit cigarettes in our flat. I think everyone born in the 1940's (or 50's) was a smoker whether or not he/she lit up. (Sorry for the political statement.)
I am a sober alcoholic (have not drunk in 20 years). No recreational drugs. Very dull person, overall.
My nickname, ToBeGolden, refers to Golden Retrievers. I've always wished I had their personality. Once a neighbor threw a rock and hit my Golden in the head. After a dazed moment, Angus picked the rock up and returned it. Dropped it as my angry neighbor's feet. What a way to win an argument. Wish I could learn to react in such a manner.
I see the rapids ahead, and the waterfall beyond them. What is the best route thru the rapids? How can I avoid not be smashed against a rock? Of course, I worry about the waterfall. Is there a way to beach my craft and not launch over the waterfall? But the challenge of the waterfall is a little ahead. I have to figure out whether to attack the rapids on the right, left, or center. RickW.