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Long time no see


marisa

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Hi everyone. I used to post here but haven't in a long long time. I had surgery for Stage 1 lung cancer in November of 2000. Lately I have been feeling very poorly, headaches, loss of appetite, no energy, the list goes on. Yesterday I went to my doctor.. he ordered an xray, compared it to the one I had done last year which was clear and lo and behold there is a 4 centimetre tumour in the right lung. Off I go today to the lung specialist. I am trying to remain optimistic but in my heart I know it's back. More than likely a new cancer. Please will everyone pray for me.

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Hi Marisa,

I thnk you were just about making your last posts here as I was just beginning. I did see some of them though and went back and read the rest. So I remember you well. I sure hope this time it's caught early once again and that it's taken care of and you'll be on your way. Lots of new 'stuff' since 2000, Marisa, in the line of tx. Wishing you lots of luck

Kasey

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thank you everyone for your replies. I went to the lung specialist this morning. I wasn't too fond of his bedside manner but the worst was the man who did the breathing test. He was so unfriendly and abrupt. I have an appointment for next Tuesday and then have to go back to the lung specialist the tuesday after that for the results. So here we go again!

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I am so sorry you are experiencing this uncertainty about whether or not you cancer has reared it's ugly head again. The waiting "to know" is often worse than actually receiving the diagnosis. I pray all goes well and the cancer has not returned. It's bad enough to be going such an ordeal, then to have healthcare professionals not show consideration and concern. THIS JUST BURNS ME UP. My mom experienced the same thing with the pulmonologist...WHAT IS WRONG WITH PEOPLE??? Anyway, I write to encourage you. Think positive because nothing has ever gotten accomplished by thinking negative. I tell myself this often too. :)

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  • 2 weeks later...

Just got back from the lung specialist. He told me that it will be a malignant tumour. He doesn't seem too worried about the other smaller ones in there. On Monday I have to go to Westmead hospital for a biopsy on the big one to determine what type of cancer it is. I guess there are a few different types of lung cancers. He said where it is situated a bronchosophy will not reach it. He feels that it will be a new cancer not a met from the old one. He also said the tumour would have started 6 to 9 months ago. After the biopsy they are arranging a PET scan for the staging of it. He told me the PET scan will determine if it is operatable and if not it can be treated with chemo and radiation. I told him I would not opt for that because to me it is just a means to the end and I don't want my remaining time being sick from the treatment. I haven't fully decided but at this moment that's how I'm feeling. I'm scared to death and numb.

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Marisa,

So sorry to hear this news. A friend of mine was told her lung cancer was inoperable two years ago. She found another doctor. She had chemo, then surgery, then more chemo. She is happy with her current life, working, traveling, etc. If you choose to not have chemo and radiation, we are here to support that decision, but give yourself time to make that decision (there is never enough time to know if it is the right decision!)

Hugs - and try not to let the week get to you - go do something fun or something.

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Marisa,

I am sorry that you are going through this. My respect goes out to you on any decision you make, but because of experience, my instincts tell me to encourage a second opinion (most definitely).

In the meanwhile, try to keep as positive in thought as you are able.

The week will pass before you realize it.

Barbara

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  • 3 weeks later...

I spoke to Marisa this afternoon. She has been told that she has NSCLC and mets to the brain. This came from her general practisioner. She was due to see her oncologist either today or tomorrow. I am sure once she has all of the updated information she will let us know.

She is really having a rough time with this please say extra prayerd for her tonight.

Marisa you know that you are in my thoughts. Anytime you want to call again please do. I will be praying that things are better than you feel they are right now.

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Marisa, I'm new here since your first cancer. I wanted to come in and say how devastating I imagine it must be after all these years. I was devastated when my cancer progressed after a year.

I agree a second opinion, if possible, just to find more survivior-friendly doctors. Also, believe me, my RN daughter and I were dreading my response to chemo since I'm a real chucker when it comes to anesthesias and pain meds. They have made great improvement with chemo and anti-med drugs. They are not always a cake-walk but usually not the horrow they used to be years ago.

Sending much positive healing energy your way.

Judy in Key West

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Marisa,

I am also new since your first bough with LC. I'm sorry you have to be back here and sorry the cancer has returned.

I agree that a second opinion is essential. And do research on your options. There are many here who are long time survivors of Stage IV LC. The decision to treat or not to treat is always up to you, but you should know that it is not necessarily a complete trade-off between quality and quantity of life. Many undergoing chemo and/or radiation are able to maintain a good quality of life.

You can go over the GRACE www.cancergrace.org for the latest information on treatments. You can also ask the oncologists there questions. They are great about responding and while they can't give medical advice, they can talk about the treatment options and what to expect from them.

Whatever decision you make, we will support you.

Susan

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I have to tell you that I am very concerned about Mirisa. We spoke for a few minutes the other night. She told me that she had to go lay down because she had a bad headache. I haven't heard from her sense.

I have sent her 2 pms voicing my concern and still nothing. She was supposed to see her oncologist either that day or the next. Please everyone keep her in your prayers.

Marisa if you read this please let us know how you are doing. We are all waiting to hear.

I know she has a husband but not sure if he knows much about the board or would know to post an update if she is unable.

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Marissa Just want Ya t know I am pulling for YA whatsoever decision is and Yes it is YOUR decision!! I know this is a hard time tight now and You are in my thoughts and prayers..

for what it is worth you may want to check out some of Dean Carl thoughts on no treatments!He was the creator f that forum and a wise man to boot with a ton of courage and inspiration to share with us!!!

If i can help in any small way please let me know... Hugs and Prayers Randy IN NC!!!

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