Living with Kidney Cancer

In June 2007, I had my annual physical. After reviewing the results of my blood tests, the doctor recommended an ultrasound be performed. Later a CT scan confirmed that a tumor had formed on my right kidney — renal cell carninoma [carcinoma]. We made the decision to remove the kidney laporoscopically in August. The surgery was performed on Aug 8; I returned home on the 10th in time for lunch.

I returned to the gym after two weeks (light walking and light weights) and returned to work the following week. At the time, I was 53 and was working out at the gym twice/wk. Since then, I have increased my workouts 3 times/wk and have added more cardio to my routine. I also take my blood pressure regularly.

The doctors agreed that the regular exercise schedule before the surgery enabled me to recover quickly. The message that I give to my friends is — 1) take care of your body while you are healthy and 2) take the time for your annual physical. I had no pain or sypmtoms; the doctor diagnosed the tumor from routine blood tests.

Since August, I have regular CT scans to determine if the cancer had returned and have blood tests performed to check the health of the remaining kidney. So far there have been no problems.