Things will never be the same again.

With only a month into 2010, it has already proved to be one of my most life-altering years. Early fall of 2009, I noticed my heart seemed to beat a little faster than normal. I figured I was just out of shape or a little stressed and brushed it off, thinking it will go away soon. Several months passed and it didn’t go away, but rather became more noticeable to the point of being able to see my heartbeat through my shirt. I was taking my pulse by sight, and at 102 beats per minute, I became more concerned. After following the advice of a tremendous friend, to whom I will forever be indebted, I made an appointment to see my doctor. I, otherwise, would have put this off probably another few months or so.

My physical exam did not produce anything truly alarming. I had great cholesterol levels and blood pressure. No outward signs or symptoms of any problems and above all, I had felt great, better than I had in years. The blood work showed a border high thyroid level. This could possibly explain the tachycardia I was experiencing.

Week of January 19-22
The following tests were ordered:
- Stress test/EKG, ultra-sound of my heart, and a chest x-ray.
These were to rule out heart disease. Results of the chest x-ray showed a considerably large size mass, possibly an enlarged thyroid.

Further tests same week
- Thyroid scan
- CAT scan of chest
Results showed my thyroid was functioning and processing as normal. The mass would now require a biopsy, as it appeared to be a malignant tumor, Lymphoma in nature.

Thursday January 28
-Biopsy performed on lymph node, left side of my neck.
This really pissed off Marla, because she immediately started to fight back. After a 20 minute procedure under general anesthesia, recovery took all day. Sending my body temperature to the low 90’s, low oxygen levels and a racing pulse of 109 for most of the day, it was a night in the hospital for observation.

Tuesday February 2
Consultation with the Oncologist.
Confirmation of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. As much as you try to prepare yourself for the actual uttering of the words, “You have --insert name of devastating disease here--“…I don’t think it’s humanly possible to do so.

Pending further test results, my treatment will begin in one week. Chemotherapy once a week for 3 months following by Radiation.

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS:
This disease is highly treatable and can be cured.
If tests indicate the disease is gone following treatment, and it has not come back in the next 5 years, it won’t come back again.

Staging Process
These tests will indicate the stage of the disease. Currently, I appear to have Stage 2. That includes the large mass in my chest & up to the lymph node in my neck. If it has spread below the diaphragm, Stage 3. Existing in bone marrow, Stage 4.

Thursday February 4
Bone marrow biopsy.

Friday February 5
PET scan. Injected with radioactive isotopes, this scan indicates the location of the infected cells.

So….now what?

I can’t thank my family, friends, and neighbors enough for their unconditional love, generous support, and countless offers to help.
THANK YOU – THANK YOU – THANK YOU!
Next week I’ll have a few more tests, ball up my fists, and get ready to knock this thing to the ground.