new diagnosis in nz

[Biba5]

cancerous tumour in lung, benign tumout in pancreas. I see specialist tomorrow. Any advice on questions I should ask?

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer]

sorry to respond so late. It’s already past tomorrow where you are at. I’ll post these questions though in case someone else needs them. Please let us know what you learned at your appointment and how we can help you.

go2.org/resources-and-suppo...

[Biba5 in reply to Denzie]

I saw specialist yesterday. My son came with me. He was very thorough, took us through PETscan etc. I am having a lobectomy in 2 weeks, they will take nodes at same time. Given my age (75), had pulmonary lung function test which showed heart strong enough for surgery. I am so very fortunate that they picked this intruder up on a scan for something else while it is still Stage1. Also grateful for the speedy reaction from the NZ health system which is under extreme pressure since COVID, with drastic shortages of all medical staff. Best wishes to my fellow travellers here x

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer in reply to Biba5]

So grateful to learn they caught it early so you have more treatment options. For those of us who advocate for early testing and diagnosis, this represents a kind of victory.

Consider starting a new post or looking at older posts to learn tips to recovering from surgery.

[Biba5 in reply to Denzie]

I will be going in to hospital in a week or so for lobectomy of top of right lung. Am unable to eat much, have lost 12kg since October, using protein powder in smoothies but it’s hard to swallow anything.

Also my skin on right side of torso is sore. There’s nothing to see but it so sore I can’t put my right arm down. Also just diagnosed with Small Fibre Neuropathy, feet and lower legs. Is this neuropathy or something to do with the cancer?

Any advice on prep for surgery, and/or immediate post op?

[Denzie Moderator Volunteer in reply to Biba5]

The cancer can prevent normal circulation. I’m my case my finger clubbed. Fluids pooled in my fingertips because circulation was affected. They looked a bit like piano hammers. I can’t say with any degree of certainty that is what is causing your discomfort or affecting the neuropathy but I can say it might contribute.

That would be a good question to ask your doctor. Do call their office tomorrow and ask the nurse to get that answered for you.

[JanetteR57]

one of the most important questions to ask is 'if I have more questions when I leave here, who can I contact for more information? hope it goes well.