I faced the most daunting challenge of my life.
A CT scan revealed that a 4cm mass of thyroid tissue had grown outside of my actual thyroid, and a biopsy determined it was cancerous, so on January 22nd, I went in for what my ENT described as a neck dissection.
I had only had surgery once in my life to that point, and that was in 2nd grade. It was a simple procedure to remove scar tissue from the malformed growth that emerged after having my fingertip sewn back on after a freak toy box accident. No, that is not a typo, sadly.
This was going to be vastly different. This operation would be much more invasive and would be centered around several vital parts of my anatomy. I was so filled with anxiety that my doctor put me on a beta-blocker a week before the procedure to reduce my heart rate and blood pressure.
The operation lasted 5 hours, and I was in recovery for another 2 hours. My thyroid was removed, along with 53 lymph nodes. I woke with 16 staples in my neck and looked like a reject from a Tim Burton movie.
I’m once again fighting constant fatigue. The effects of radiation therapy can last from 4 to 8 weeks. I can barely taste anything, and my neck and part of my right cheek have swelled back up.
BUT…everything is looking good. At least, that’s what they’re telling me. So, for that, I am thankful.
If all this suffering keeps me around to continue watching my children grow, I’ll gladly endure it. Okay, maybe not gladly.
As I slowly come back together, the world outside is falling apart. This pandemic has shutdown nearly everything, and C’s stepfather was diagnosed with COVID-19, despite not being tested due to a shortage of tests. So C’s stuck here with me while I’m hoping that 1) the diagnosis is wrong and 2) if it isn’t, he didn’t bring it here with him.
Aside: I’m not a medical professional, but I’m not sure why they wouldn’t at least do a flu test to rule that out first…
To sum this rambling shitshow up, 2020 can go suck a big, dirty…toe. What a bunch of suck this year has been.
How’s everyone fairing during these trying times? I hope everyone is healthy!
Mental Defecation 
I’m going to show my ass because it’s always fun to poke fun at my expense. But I learned something. So, I thought 53 was a typo so I googled how many lymph nodes are in the neck; turns out a whopping 150. Maybe I should’ve taken an anatomy course or two when I had the chance… I hope all is well with you and C! And I’m with you, they could do a regular flu test to rule out, but better safe than sorry.
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Thanks! For some reason I thought there were only four lymph nodes. Before the surgery I was all, “How will I fight off infections without lymph nodes?” He kinda chuckled at my ignorance.
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Well for your second surgery, you sure go overboard. I sure hope 11 didn’t bring anything with him. At his age he is unfortunately likely to be a carrier rather than having symptoms ( or so they say). I will keep you and 11 in my thoughts. Best to both of you
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Hello, TD! Sorry to hear about your health woes and glad to hear you’re on the mend. Good timing too, since if it had happened now, the would likely make you wait for surgery.
I’m ok. Working from home and making my way back to blogland.
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Hi! It’s been a long time! Glad you’re doing well.
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Glad to hear you’re doing better.
From what I understand, a flu test wouldn’t rule anything out except the flu – it’s completely possible to have both COVID19 and flu at the same time.
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Well, THAT would suck, but I’m guessing that would be very unlikely.
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All sounds a bit hideous but I’m glad you’re slowly healing and the op went so well.
Here…home is quiet. Work is risky, but as I’m in the hospital ya gotta suck it up and keep going.
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I can’t imagine what it must be like to work in a hospital right now. Stay safe!
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I wish you a complete recovery, and many happy years of watching your children. Feel better soon!
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Thank you.
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