Just diagnosed

[Tab]

Colon cancer, malignant. Not sure what stage yet, or if it's metastasized. Apparently a good sized one (4 inches) but hopefully in the sigmoid colon.

I'm making a point to be positive - if I descend into negativity, I might as well forget about it right now. If it turns out that it has metastasized, then I can't vouch for my mental state, but so far I'm taking it as a challenge and I plan to beat this f*cker. I'll have to really get in shape - fortunately I'm young enough (45) but unfortunately I'm also quite tired (from anemia, related), but my mental state is good. Taking it as it comes. I'll know more later in the week. My wife seemed to take it pretty hard but I think I've got her more comfortable with the idea, and not everything's going to go to hell right away. I just lost my job (downsized) but fortunately managed to kick in COBRA just in time so I'm insured, so at least I don't have to worry about that part of it, thankfully. Probably as good of a time to have to deal with this as any.

Anyway, saw this group and figured I'll probably be needing to get involved. I know a few people here, but not most. So, life goes on.

- Tab

[Longhorn]

1. Oh, Tab, I'm so sorry!

The hardest part about this is the unknown and right now, practically everything is unknown to you. But you're right to remain positive, even if it turns out there is a malignancy. I have Stage IV uterine or cervical cancer and it's been about seven months since my diagnosis. The treatments have reduced the tumors in my pelvis and my lungs. I realize that once they're gone, they will likely return but my job is to remain strong enough to be able to take the treatments. And there are new treatments coming along all the time!

I've believed from the beginning that this is harder on our loved ones than it is on us. I strongly recommend finding a support group and attending a couple of meetings with your wife and possibly other close family members. You will meet people who have been surviving cancer of all stages and recurrences for many years. I only went to a few meetings due to my schedule but it gave me a lot of hope.

As time goes by, you will do more and more research on your own but remember as you encounter statistics that they are always based on old studies (two years is old in cancer research!) and were performed on people for whom regular treatments were no longer working. So they always sound gloomier than it is and they do not predict what will happen in your case.

Believe it or not, you and your family will learn to live with the cancer and treatments. I'm not one of those people who find it a blessing by any means but it's not quite the curse that I thought it was before my diagnosis. Good luck and take care! :hug:

[noiretextatique]

2. hi Tab

life does go on, amazingly, even after cancer.

when i was diagnosed with 2nd stage breast cancer last november, i came across the richard bloch foundation website. he was one of the co-founders of H&R Block and a 20+year lung cancer survivor when he died of heart failure in 2004.
there's lots of great information here:

http://www.blochcancer.org

Tab, this is a cliche, but one that happens to very true with regard to health challenges:
Knowledge is Power

so sorry you are a member of this club, but this is a good place for support and resources.

i am holding you in thought, and claiming the best outcome for you :hug:

[JohnnyLib2]

3. Rats!

That's the polite version. I'm sorry to hear that. Sounds like your attitude is great and that will really help. Every best wish to you, hope you keep updating.

[Tab]

4. Thanks all

I intend to kick its ass.

[Uben]

5. Hang tough, Bro

I'm going in tomorrow to see if I have testicular cancer. I know something is wrong, and from what I have read, I'm a good candidate. Fortunately, it is one of the more curable cancers, but nobody gets a free pass with this crap. My wife is a six year survivor of breast cancer, so we've been through it before. I have insurance too, but it is a $5000 deuctible and 50% of the next $10K, so I could only be out $10K/yr. I already pay $15K/yr in premiums (private policy)

If you need an ear to listen, ever, we are here. Most of us know what it's like waiting for pathology, the fear and uncerttainty.
I suggest you spend this time studying your cancer and your options. If for nothing else, to be able to understand what the doctor is telling you, and to be involved in your own treatment.

Good luck. I'm praying for you!

[LeighAnn]

6. Prayers for You and Tab

I'm thinking and praying for you both.

~*Peace*~

[KitchenWitch]

7. Gosh, Tab, I am at a loss.

I am sending you loving and healing vibes.

:hug: