VOCAL CHORD CANCER

[younginmind]

Well saw the surgeon today - the oncologist recommended that his lymph glands on the right side should be removed, apparently some of the lymph glands on the left side are questionable - so it has been decided that he has biopsy 1st to see how they are but definitely right side to be surgically removed - that is when a theatre is available!! So on 28/09 he starts the chemo - yesterday we spent hours waiting then he had an MRI - today spent a few hours more for the above - but at least he is getting looked after which so many people aren't. It is nice writing to you cos I don't tell anyone else, but this is really doing me in. As he keeps talking about it being a death sentence & I keep telling him how many times have I had cancer & I'm still here, I know you will go through a nasty experience but you will still be here - but I have noticed unfortunately and I don't know who to talk to this about - since the diagnosis he has started shuffling when walking, can't remember things. etc - so am very concerned if the shock of the diagnosis has brought on dementia - he still drives, but worries me - could a shock do this? It is nice I can talk to you, as obviously he does not want anyone to know about this apart from a very few close friends to which I have not mentioned the memory lapses. Today he said he hadn't eaten, it was yesterday, but it was this afternoon. He doesn't eat properly & has now lost weight. He keeps on about the quality of life & doesn't want to have treatment & would be happy to die - all I can do if try to keep his spirits up by saying I am here having had cancer 5 times & are alive & kicking & I expect you to be the same after your treatment. I have told him to be in touch with people who have had the same and are still here - have been through trying to help him with someone from the church, someone who has been through it before - got no were. All I can say that at the moment he will be starting chemo on 28/09 & I hope God that he can eventually get his head round. Thank you all for listening to me, without you I don't know what I would do.

[kiddy]

Hi sorry to hear he is struggling. Do not know about vocal chord cancer as mine was Oesphagal. Have you spoke to his CNS on your own about his condition. It could be medication and anxiety causing his memory. You sound a lovely positive person. Let’s hope the treatment goes well.

Take care

Best Wishes

Debbie

[younginmind in reply to kiddy]

Thank you

[AlanWare]

My father in law had the same problem. He had radio therapy. It totally killed off the cancer. The only side effects was his voice went a bit deeper. I will pray for you both.

[younginmind in reply to AlanWare]

Thank you

[Mauser1905]

There is upheaval of emotions and rollercoaster journey right on the doortstep.

Key is to talk, get help, and be willing to be helped, choose to enjoy the present time. Tomorrow is not guaranteed.

Have you both managed to speak t the OPA and try to speak to patient buddy?

Not sharing the emotions and concerns with anybody is your choice, but comes with a price same time. Suggest be practical and wise same time.

All the best of wishes on your journey.

[younginmind]

Thank you