September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month

I am a 14 year Thyroid Cancer survivor, yet I didn't know until a few days ago that September is Thyroid Cancer Awareness Month.  It's not a cancer you hear too much about, but I know quite a few people who have had it or are fighting it now.  There were at least three of us from my graduating class diagnosed around the same time and through my volunteer work with the Relay for Life in Central Chester County, I have met others. 

I first found a small lump on my neck in 1995. The doctor I was seeing at the time, told me to forget about it.  I had just fought mononucleosis for 3 months, so it was dismissed as a swollen lymph node. 

Two years went by and in the summer of 1997 I had a cold and sore throat that I could not shake.  I had recently moved back to the area and was using a new doctor.  She asked if I was aware of the lump on my neck and I told her that I had forgotten all about it, but had pointed it out to another doctor two years earlier.  By 1997, it had grown rather large.  Tests were ordered, and my thyroid panel came back clean, but the ultra sound showed cause for concern. 

The majority of my thyroid was removed a couple weeks later by a wonderful surgeon at Phoenixville Hospital.  Six weeks after that, I was admitted to the University of Penn Hospital for radiation.  Because the radiation I was given could damage the thyroid of others, I was placed in isolation for three days.  Once the level of radiation was at a point where it would not harm others, I was released, but had to stay away from family members and pets in the home for two weeks. 

I am happy to say that I have been cancer free since, but will require medication and follow up for life.  I decided to use Fox Chase Cancer Center for follow up for many years.  A few years ago, I was released from the care of the Oncologist at FCCC and I now see an Endocrinologist who is wonderful! As a result of my experience with the first doctor in 1995, I learned to be an advocate for myself.  I know my body better than anyone and if I feel there is a concern, I make sure I am listened to. 

For further information on Thyroid Cancer you may visit:

Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association: http://www.thyca.org/index.htm

The American Cancer Society: http://www.cancer.org/Cancer/ThyroidCancer/index