Positive vibes needed, please

[pecwae]

This saga just seems to continue...

I have a golf ball sized mediastinal mass. I've known about it for 2 years (was diagnosed between cancers) and haven't had any symptoms, but it lit up on my last PET and has grown. Met with a CT surgeon and he says it has to go. He's checking blood work just to make sure it's what he thinks it is: benign teratoma. He's talking with a Duke surgeon to see if it can be removed laprascopically.

You know, I won't mind it as much as long as the "C" word doesn't get attached along the line. I dread the surgery, but just don't want to hear "C" again this soon.

I sure could use a :grouphug: and some DU love right about now.

[LeighAnn]

1. Here's to you!

You'll feel better with it out of there!

~*Peace*~

[pecwae]

2. Thank you LeighAnn

That's what I'm hoping for.

[OzarkDem]

3. Hey, we're here!

I was just looking it up and it seems it would be pretty unusual for it to become cancerous. The surgery will probably take care of it, and if they do it laparoscopically, even better!

The changes in the PET scan can be just calcifications. They're probably just being super cautious.

I'm sending love and positive energy your way! :grouphug:

[pecwae]

4. I just knew

when I looked this morning I'd see a reply from you.

It's almost 100% positive that it's the teratoma. It's just the language used on PET interpretation, 'disease progression cannot be ruled out', that's a little off-putting.

Thanks for caring and :hug: back at ya!

[Tracer]

5. Good wishes to you!

n/t

[pecwae]

6. I truly appreciate those wishes! nt

[pecwae]

7. Having surgery Tuesday

Will be having the laprascopic procedure done by a top CT surgeon at Duke. It's 99.9% sure that there is NO malignancy involved!! The tumor markers they ran last week were normal. I'm nervous about the surgery although I know I'll do great and have a quick, complete recovery. Just being a patient again bothers me a little.

Thanks to this group for the support and caring.

[OzarkDem]

8. Excellent news about the tumor markers!

not so great about the surgery, but we'll be hoping for you to recover quickly!

[Maestro]

9. I'm sure all will be fine.

Good vibes being sent.

[LiberalinNC]

10. A little late, but want to wish you luck tomorrow!!!

Duke is a terrific hospital, been there for surgery many times, and all my doctors are there, including my oncologist - Dr. Marcom!!! Love him.

Anyway, keep positive!!! And sending you good vibes for tomorrow!!

[Skidmore]

11. Sending many good wishes your way for a good outcome.