Diagnosis
The Facts: On Thursday, January 15, I had a routine colonoscopy completed. After I woke from the sedation, the doctor shared the news that I had a large mass, and based on the size, it was likely cancerous. On Monday, January 19, the doctor called and confirmed that the mass did have cancer cells and that it was rather large. On Wednesday, January 21, I met with the surgeon who explained that "in my case," surgery is not the first line of defense, but that I likely would begin with chemo and radiation, followed by surgery. A permanent colostomy is a possibility. Friday, January 23, I met with the Oncologist. He came in on his day off to be there and meet with me for my first visit. He confirmed everything I have heard thus far, but offered a little more sunshine and a little less gloom. Next steps include waiting on the pathology report for MMR status, DNA testing, CT testing, and an MRI. The Emotions: I had my first colonoscopy eleven years ago, and the symptoms I had that l...