For the past, oh about, 10 years I have had what started out as a small growth on my left thyroid. Well, it’s not so small anymore, and while I’ve had two biopsies several years apart, and it’s not cancerous, it has grown to a size where the endocrinologist suggests that it come out. So tomorrow afternoon, this is what I’ll be doing or rather having done to me.
Over the years that I’ve had this nodule, I’ve seen three different endocrinologists, two men and most recently a woman. I was really impressed with the level of information she chose to share with me about the potential problems the growth could cause should I not have it removed.
She was the only doctor to tell me that once it reached a certain size, over four centimeters (I think) most endocrinologists are of the general opinion that it should come out. Hmmm…first time I’d heard this piece of key information.
Too bad for me, she was leaving the area to resume her practice in Louisiana. Lucky for me, though, I got a chance to meet with her, get her knowledgeable and thorough perspective that extended to the surgeons she recommended to perform the procedure.
Of course, once my mind was made up about having the nodule removed, I went online and did my own research so that I could intelligently discuss my concerns with the surgeon. From everything that I’ve read, this is a pretty routine surgery with thyroid nodules occurring in women significantly more so than men. Personally, though, I don’t consider anything routine about an invasive procedure.
One of my biggest concerns is the proximity of the thyroid nodule to my vocal cords. There is a small chance that nerve could be paralyzed (temporarily or permanently) and affect the sound of my voice. I like my voice. It’s definitely an important part of who I am, and sometimes, I’m a voiceover artist. Not to mention, I’ve got a ton of calls to make for a client that I’m pitching for speaking engagements.
So, yes, I’ll take one successful surgery with an unchanged voice, and all the well wishes and prayers you’d like to send my way. :-)
May your surgery go wonderfully well and you emerge not only with a healthy thyroid, but your silver voice. Thinking of you!
Posted by: Anne Ferguson | Thursday, September 07, 2006 at 01:18 AM
Roxie...I had the same surgery over 15 years ago and I understand your apprehensions. Please let us know how it goes! I'll be holding you in my thoughts and affirming a quick and healthy recovery, with your sweet voice intact!
Posted by: Franni Ferrero | Thursday, September 07, 2006 at 06:16 AM
Roxie -- Please know you have my best thoughts and prayer! By the time you read this, you may already be home recuperating. I'm familiar with this procedure as my mother had the same type of surgery when she was about 39 years of age, and all went well, thankfully. Do keep us posted when you can! ~ Gloria
Posted by: Gloria | Thursday, September 07, 2006 at 10:10 AM
Roxie, you are in my thoughts. Sending ~*~*~healing vibes~*~*~ your way and wishing you the very best of surgery results.
Hugs, Margot
Posted by: Margot Thompson | Thursday, September 07, 2006 at 11:22 AM
Ann, Franni, Gloria, and Margot, it felt so good to go online last Friday and read all these lovely messages filled with healing thoughts. With the exception of a few dizzy spells, every now and then, I'm doing fine. The doctor did an excellent job of staying away from my vocal chord. I did/have not experienced any hoarseness, and I'm so thankful for that.
Posted by: Roxie | Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 12:37 AM
Oh, Roxie, that's wonderful news!! YAY!! :)
Posted by: Gloria | Thursday, September 14, 2006 at 08:38 AM