LovesLife

I had no symptoms whatsoever. After reading the book "Lung Cancer-Myth, Facts, Choices and Hope" after a friend was diagnosed with lung ca I realized I had risk factors that were quite high (grew up in smoking household/smoked myself, although quit 18 years ago). I had to negotiate with my GP to get the chest x-ray (I wanted a CT scan which I would pay for-he thought that was not warranted in my case). Anyhow, after repeating the x-rays over a period of 3 months it was decided due to growth of the nodule that further work up must be done. It was seen at initial x-ray; however, the radiologist thought it was just a bony rib protrustion. I thank God for him and his eagle eye every day, because if not for him - well, who knows. Anyhow, another person lucky enough to have their cancer picked up via chest x-ray. Thanks to everyone for sharing their stories...many will be educated due to this thread. Linda

I am so sorry - please accept my sincere sympathy on the loss of your wonderful dad. Wishing you peace and strength for the upcoming days. Linda

Jamie - oh girl, how I LOVE reading these wonderful results from you! Enjoy the summer and CONGRATULATIONS!!! Linda

Cathy - what wonderful news ... and quoting Shakespeare yet - too funny! Congratulations on the good news all around. Linda

(((Kelly))) - I am so sorry you are going through such a nightmare right now. It is excellent news though that your biopsy appointment has been moved to a more reasonable date - next Tuesday sounds much better than August 5th! Is there any possibility of your sister holding off on making any decision regarding your mom until you have a firm plan of action in place? Perhaps she could attend the follow up appointment with the surgeon after biopsy and hear what your doctor has to say and whether he recommends you make other plans on a short term basis for your mom during your treatment. It seems to me at this point it doesn't have to be moving ahead so quickly; but perhaps there are things I don't understand as I have not been in this situation before. Just know I am thinking of you and hoping your day is better tomorrow. Linda

Lilly - doing the happy dance here! What fantastic news!!!! Linda

Dar - I am so sorry to hear this news. I hope they can get her pain under control quickly. Hugs and prayers, Linda

(((Chris))) - sending good thoughts to all of you. I am so glad Jerry is in the hospital getting the care he deserves. Linda

Congratulations Lilly! Linda

Good morning - Ned actually needs a raise (he is not above his pay grade) and he makes some excellent points. I was applying my PET to my situation; in which the surgeon told me I got in quicker and received a quick surgery date as he knew there wouldn't be any surprises going into surgery. It didn't change the fact that I was getting surgery - it was a tool to tell him they were on the right track in their staging, etc as I had absolutely no pathology testing done prior to surgery due to location. My SIL just recently had a CT scan and then a bronchoscopy done to diagnose and treat her lung cancer - no PET scan at all. They may do one in the near future; however, it didn't change the plans for the chemo she will be starting...that decision was based on the pathology results. So, I shouldn't have been in the role of only how it helped me, but where it wasn't a necessity for her. Sandra is another absolute sweetheart who will be more than helpful in all these areas where I have no expertise. As I am out of my scope of expertise Kelly, I will be now be your number 1 cheerleader and friend throughout. Sorry if I confused the issue on this PET scan - there are some very knowledgeable and wonderful people on this board (Ned and Sandra) to name just a few who can help navigate these areas. I hope you managed to get a little rest. Linda

Hey Kelly - get some sleep - this will all be there in the morning to be dealt with. As to the PET scan though - yes, a private one would likely get you in quicker; however, I don't believe you should have to spend your hard earned $$$ to pay for one (they are expensive). The reason I paid for a private one is because in all likelihood they would have never offered me one given that they thought I had a lower stage. You should get a PET scan offered to you on a much quicker basis than months - if not, find out if you can pay privately and get it done quicker and see if the province will reimburse you if it was deemed necessary testing. Just a thought. Anyhow, watch something funny on tv and get some sleep. We are all here for you to help however we can. I am sorry you are having to go through this, I truly am. Hugs, Linda P.S. Having an onc as a family friend is wonderful - use any and all avenues to get treatment - I sure did and didn't feel at all guilty about it!

Sandra - no help with any of these questions but sending you prayers, positive thoughts, and big hugs my friend. Linda

Kelly - Just wanted to add - I know we are in different provinces but waiting until August 5th is absolutely ridiculous! I know that during the summer things get backed up somewhat; however, that to me is much too long to wait. You sound like a go-getter to me and I would suggest that you start phoning and writing anyone who will listen...media, newspapers, whatever! I suggested that a lady here in Alberta contact the College of Physician's and Surgeons as she wasn't getting in very quickly either and that seemed to help in her situation. Your GP must be aggressive in getting you in quicker and I really would voice my opinion very loudly to my GP if he/she isn't moving things along quicker. So Kelly, Canada or not, that wait is not in your best interest - that is at least 8 weeks before treatment would start - I don't think that is acceptable. Let me know if I can try and help you out somehow - perhaps we can brainstorm together. Grrr-this makes me angry that a person has to deal with these issues on top of dealing with a cancer diagnosis - seems to be the way these days, but I sure don't have to like it! Take care and stay strong, Linda

(((Kelly))) - well, that certainly wasn't the news you were expecting to hear. I beleive that Dr. West at the GRACE website has had postings regarding surgery and lymph node involvement. Perhaps you can check over on that site for more information (cancergrace.org). It was great news that the bone/brain scan were clear. I'm sure there will be other folks along soon to help you out with your questions that have similar situations to yours. I will keep you in my prayers Kelly and will be here when you need me. Hugs, Linda

Robin - welcome. I am so sorry about the loss of your friend Hebbie. I am also sorry about the news of your MIL having her cancer return after being cancer free for 6 1/2 years - what a shock that must be to everyone. I will keep her in my prayers. Linda

Welcome Shedevil - hope you get some good news at your doctor's appointment today. Keep us posted. Linda

(((Nova))) I am so very sad to hear about Harry. When I read your posts the love you two shared was so evident in every word you wrote and I can't begin to imagine the heart ache you are experiencing. I pray that you find the strength you need to make it through the coming days and months. My heart is breaking for you and your family. Linda

Tracy - I am sitting here at the computer with the BIGGEST smile on my face!!! I am so-o-o happy for you and these excellent results. Happy tears at the doctor's office - how great is that. Linda

(((Dar))) - How horrible and how confusing for you and your mom. Will keeping you in my thoughts and prayers for good results in the upcoming MRI at Hopkins! Linda

Jackie - just wanted you to know we are all thinking about you and missing your wonderful spirit here. I thought today I would put out a quote just for you (don't worry - I do NOT want your job - this is just for you for today). "We can't have all bright days, But one thing is true, No cloud is so dark That the sun can't shine through!" Helen Steiner Ricer Hope your days are brimming with sunshine again soon Jackie. Blessings, Linda

((((Denise, Tom and Jayla)))). Hoping for a better day tomorrow for all of you...a back rub and kisses from a little one may be just the ticket! Linda

(((Nova))) ... I am so sorry to hear this news about Harry! I can't even begin to imagine how hard this is for you, Jacob and the entire family. I hope that you have some support for yourself during this difficult, horrible time. I will be keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs, Linda

Hi Ellie - I don't have any advice on your treatment, but I wanted to welcome you. I hope the treatments get better soon. Linda

Penni-what a tough road you have been on but you came out on top! Thank you so much for sharing your good news and for reiterating that lung cancer is not a death sentence. Warm wishes, Linda

Hi Diane - Welcome to this wonderful place of support and love at a time when it is so needed. I truly wish you didn't need to be here because of your dad, but it is full of HOPE and that is so important. Best wishes, Linda