It's incredible how life can transform in the span of just one year. As I glance back at the past 12 months, it feels like a whirlwind. I've been on a journey of self-discovery, learning to harness my energy and become more attuned to my body. There's still much for me to uncover about myself, and I'm committed to maintaining my health.
One question I've encountered repeatedly in social settings is, "What happens after thyroid cancer treatment?" Drawing from my own experiences and the knowledge I've gathered, I'd like to shed some light on this topic. Thyroid cancer treatment typically involves the removal of the thyroid gland and the eradication of cancer cells. While the treatment itself wasn't overly stressful, I must admit that I breathed a sigh of relief when it concluded. However, the fear of cancer returning still lingers, and it may take some time for those anxieties to dissipate.
For some individuals, thyroid cancer may never fully disappear. These individuals require ongoing monitoring and regular treatments to keep the cancer in check. In my case, I'll continue with six-month, lifetime follow-up care with my endocrinologist. During these appointments, my doctor will inquire about any symptoms, conduct physical examinations, and perform blood tests. These follow-ups are crucial for detecting any potential cancer recurrence, as thyroid cancer tends to grow slowly and can resurface even decades after initial treatment.
Having had papillary cancer and a complete thyroid gland removal, I'll also undergo another radioactive iodine scan on the anniversary of my last treatment. If the results come back negative, I won't need further scans unless I develop symptoms. Additionally, my blood will be tested every six months for TSH and Thyroglobulin levels. Thyroglobulin is produced by thyroid tissue, so after total thyroid removal, its presence in my blood should be minimal. Any rise in Thyroglobulin levels could signify a recurrence of thyroid cancer.
Outside of medical appointments, my day-to-day life is relatively normal. Yet, there are days when I grapple with fluctuating energy levels. Upon returning to work, I found myself drained and exhausted, prompting me to make the difficult decision to leave my job in pursuit of a career that allows me to work from home.
If you're reading this blog because you've recently been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or are recovering from treatment, please know that there will be both good days and bad days on this journey. When the tough days arrive, don't let them bring you down; instead, cherish and relish the good days.
There will be days when you'll need to accept help from others, recognizing that you can't do it all on your own. There will be days when you decide to step away or simply let things slide. And there will be days when you ponder the purpose of living this way, only to realize that life, despite its challenges, is too beautiful to let slip through your fingers.
Cancer has undoubtedly altered the course of my life. I now perceive things through a different lens. Rather than self-pity, I feel gratitude for life's precious moments. Instead of weakness, I sense strength within me. And instead of guilt, I experience contentment. In the depths of my soul, I know that this is not the end but a new beginning.
