Do you have a family history of thyroid cancer?

No, however my sister has also had thyroid problems and has had part of hers removed. We are led to believe that the intensive X-ray ‘treatment’ for acne we both had when we were in our late teens caused my cancer and her ‘abnormalities’. The X-ray treatment was done by a well-known dermatologist and was common practice then. He did say to us that we might have “problems” due to this treatment in about 30 years’ time. His prediction was very accurate, almost to the year, for both of us.

When were you diagnosed?

I noticed a large lump growing in my neck in the mid-1990s.

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At the hospital after the operation, the aftermath of which was extremely painful, the surgeon came in and without any apology or sympathy said: “You have cancer”. I was stunned. Then I became very angry – about his misdiagnosis, the delay in treatment, his lack of care and caring. I did not return to him but was referred by a recommended oncologist to my current specialist, Dr X.

What form of cancer did you have?

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What symptoms did you have?

The symptoms were a significantly swollen neck.

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What tests were done to confirm the diagnosis?

Two FNAB’s were done, 13 months apart.

Did this condition affect your thyroid hormone levels?

...

What treatment did you have?

I was operated on for a total thyroidectomy.

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Did your specialist explain your condition and treatment thoroughly?

The general surgeon who did the original operation most certainly did not. However, ...

How did the treatment affect you physically and emotionally?

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What was your recovery like?

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Was thyroid hormone replacement needed after treatment?

Yes, I was put onto thyroid hormone replacement immediately after the initial operation. Over the ensuing five years my dosage has increased. I am now on 250mcg a day. This is, I believe, at the high end of the range, however I feel very fatigued if the dosage is decreased.

Have you had a follow-up scan and what were your experiences?

...

How are you feeling now?

I am cautiously relieved but not altogether convinced that the disease won’t return. I am still overweight and cannot shed the kilos, no matter how I try. I believe that this is common amongst thyroid disease patients. I tire very easily. However, my migraines have disappeared.

[Neck X-rays are well recognised as a cause of throid problems. Precautions are now taken to protect the thyroid.]

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