And life does go on....I have had a small bump on the side of my nose for many years, no change, until recently. I even had a check up a year ago by a dermatologist. She missed it, I will have to mention it on the visit next month. But I was able to get in to see her physicians assistant right away.
She stunned me saying "I will take it out today and send it in for a biopsy." I went in knowing there was a chance it might be basil cell cancer, but was not prepared to get it taken out 5 minutes later. The shots to deaden the pain were barely felt, and I felt nothing from the little surgery. A few hours later all I needed was Ibuprofen for discomfort. By the way, if it is basil cell, I will have to have a deeper surgery to get out all possible cells.
Just 2 days ago I was writing about my shoulder surgery and I was grateful for no cancer. I spoke too soon. Basil cell cancer is a very slow growing cancer, it came from too much sun, perhaps my teen years. Once taken out, patients need to go back for yearly check ups. The bump is about the size of a small pea. I had my first one on my back, which my doctor took out last July.
My point being, it threw me for a loop - I was stunned and felt pretty spacey. Rather than go home, I went to Trader Joe's and TJ Max until I felt like I could drive home safely. All I bought was a frozen pizza and tortilla chips - comfort food I suppose. We cannot take our health for granted and always must be grateful for every day!
Over the years, I have wondered how I would react if told I have a terminal illness. Maybe that is a perverted, sick thing to think about. But remember I am a writer and though very expressive and emotional, I am also a thinker. Now I know my first reaction would be fear. But I hope and pray that I could spend time with my children and grand children. I am also a pragmatic person and would make sure everything was in order (of course I have had a will for years).
Thank you, good night and God Bless! Aleta
I am in the mood to give you a bunch of favorite quotes!!
"Work like you don't need the money, love like you've never been hurt, and DANCE like no one's watching." Satchell Paige, African American Major League Baseball Player, and colorful character.
"I would always rather be happy than dignified." Charlotte Bronte, English author.
"Be yourself, who else is better qualified." Anonymous
Hi mom,
ReplyDeleteWow, that is scary. It's interesting to hear you say "stunned," because I'm certain that's what a lot of our reactions would be, kind of a shock to think this could be happening to me. Life is good and wonderful, but when it is threatened, we really feel it.
When will you find out the results? That's crazy how in 5 minutes, they just took it out.
I like your quotes. I recently read one that is similar to the last one: "Be yourself; everybody else is already taken."
Love you!