I thought I would start this blog by giving you a brief synopsis of tests completed so far, I laugh because it resembles a medical journal lol.
February – Various blood test carried out by my GP
5th March – Ultra Sound Abdomen performed at Basingstoke
17th March – ERCP with stent insertion at Basingstoke
20th March CT Abdomen performed at Basingstoke
21st March admitted to Basingstoke
24th March Staging CT Chest
25th March USS liver, also discharged from Basingstoke Hospital
20th April Endoscopic Ultrasound and Biopsy Performed at Winchester
7th May Endoscopic Ultrasound and Biopsy Performed at Southampton
As you can imagine I was also taking a lot of medication for one thing or another. I’m sure I rattled. I was also as yellow as a canary, in fact my granddaughter said to me “Nanna why have you got orange eyes?” I replied I have an upset tummy and she replied “I think mine are too as I have a tummy ache” this made me laugh so much.
I was told that a mass in my pancreas was cancer and that I would need chemotherapy to reduce the size before it could be operated on. Also if it did not shrink then there was nothing that could be done. Being told this did not concern me at all because I knew I was not about to carry this baggage around with me, it had to go.
I remember doing my ironing and suddenly it hit me like a brick wall I’m having chemo. ” I have Cancer”. I started to get upset and decided I would call my sister, she said “What’s wrong?” I said “I’m upset because I’m crying and I have no tears”? We both started laughing, blip was over. (when I became ill my eyes would not water and still don’t )
Three endoscopys have not given a conclusive answer to the mass, and between being diagnosed and now they cannot be sure that it is a cancer despite all the tests, so I am being referred to London University Hospital for another endoscopy. I’m happy with this as I don’t want chemo if it is not needed. I must admit I have amazed myself with my positive thoughts all the way through this.
In my next blog I will tell you about some of the alternative therapies and products I have taken to assist me in my progress.
PS I have a wonderful family and friends who have supported me all through this and still are I love you all loads.
Until next time
Big Rainbow Hugs to you all
Zena
Early days of my illness, not feeling very good at the time.
Bless you, you have been through the mill. Well Zena you said the right thing that you have a wonderful family and friends. You are very courageous and have a lot of determination and a very positive attitude, so with all that on board it will definitely help you on your journey. So you go for it girl and get rid of that baggage. Will be thinking of you along the way. Love Mandy xxx
Thanks Mandy I will go for it xxxx
Zena, what a lovely idea to write your story, and so brave of you. Very strange to cry without tears; I had no idea this could happen in certain circumstances. You are physically and mentally strong which I’m sure will help you tremendously and I, and many others, will be praying for you in ‘multicolour’. May the love of your family and friends comfort you. Thinking of you with love,
Chic xx
Thank you Chic xxx