Living with Testicular Cancer

It was May 2008 that I had my right testicle removed due to cancer, stage 3. The cancer had spread to my lungs. A few weeks later I started intensive chemotherapy, daily for 1 week, next 2 weeks, 1 treatment, repeated the cycle for 9 weeks. Often, my routine was chemo during the day and blood transfusions during the afternoon. Often I did not recognize myself in the mirror, I solved that problem by stop looking.

I then had a non cancerous tumor removed from my chest, this surgery was more difficult for myself to recovery from than the prior chemotherapy routine. I was waiting for the OK to return to work when I was told that my tumor markers were increasing and the CT Scans reflected new tumors in my lungs.

I am now awaiting consultation with staff of a cancer institute out of state. This process has been going on now for the past 8 months. I have been doing good, positive support from family and friends. The process has been a humbling experience, has helped me examine my life more closely, and helped me realize how fortunate I am. I have had my bad days, still 20lbs under weight, hair has grown back, curly now, and I have resumed a light exercise routine. I have had excellent care, despite problems with insurances and co pays.

Life does happen, to everyone eventually. Enjoy what you have and those you love, sometimes change happens, unexpected change, which can alter your life for the rest of your life. I will continue to have faith that this new team of experts will be able to help me.