NorCal Kayak Anglers

General => Pay It Forward => Topic started by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 04:09:34 PM

Title: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 04:09:34 PM
Hi, my name is Joel aka "Mooch"....I have 4th Stage Cancer....and I was not responsible enough to have myself checked by the doctor sooner so now I'm paying the price....PLEASE GET YOURSELF CHECKED AT LEAST EVERY 3 to 6 MONTHS TO A YEAR. Don't make the mistake I made.

Even though you feel and look Healthy, you can still be screwed from the inside.

Take care of yourself and everyone around you...life is short enough as it is!

Spread da word / Thank you !!!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: polepole on June 16, 2010, 04:12:21 PM
I've been putting off my 40 year old physical.  Not anymore!!!  Thanks for the important reminder Mooch.

-Allen
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: bmb on June 16, 2010, 04:18:02 PM
don't be a tough guy if something feels wrong inside of you!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on June 16, 2010, 04:24:52 PM
....I have 4th Stage Cancer....

Oh my goodness.  I knew you'd been diagnosed but I guess I missed to what extent.  Where is it located?

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on June 16, 2010, 04:29:59 PM
yeah man, your a good man for this message.... Its the awareness part that counts..

I have to admit, as hard as it is...... ill be getting checked next week.... Ive had some heavy abdominal pressure on my left side for a while now I need to tend too, been too FREAKED out after seeing my Pops so sick.

Seeing your post announcing you were sick a few weeks back, really woke me up.... I couldn't get it out of my mind.... Still cant...


Also guys, we got 3 cases of sunscreen we will be handing out the day of the Paddle event, please take one and use it... its free...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 04:35:58 PM
* and being fishermen, we are good candidates of too much sun exposure.....protect your self!!!!

Here's a great example (and a nice person to boot :smt001)

*even though I always give jedmo a hard time and call him an "infidel"...(or the Filipino Michael Jackson) he takes the proper precaution and I salute him for it   :salut:

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on June 16, 2010, 04:39:00 PM
that rules..... hes smart!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 04:39:26 PM
Quote
Also guys, we got 3 cases of sunscreen we will be handing out the day of the Paddle event, please take one and use it... its free...

U DA MAN PORKY  :smt023  
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on June 16, 2010, 04:46:51 PM
Its all in your honor..

Well, it was also a thought after I saw my homie Stoogies lobster arms, burnt to a crisp a few weeks ago, crispy critters!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 04:48:31 PM
....I have 4th Stage Cancer....

Oh my goodness.  I knew you'd been diagnosed but I guess I missed to what extent.  Where is it located?







....I'm getting the results of my Biopsy next week. Doc took a bone fragment off my spine and sent it away for testing - to find out what type of cancer it is. They stuck me in the back - at the topside on my butt crack - with a needle and scrapped away....I was awake during the procedure but sedated in the said area. It was painfull visually.......the good thing is that I was sent home the same day - (had to stay for 4 hours for observation before I was released)....let's just say Vicodin is my best friend at the moment  :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on June 16, 2010, 04:48:52 PM
Coincidentally, June is Men's Health Month  http://www.menshealthmonth.org/
and this week is Men's Health Week  http://www.menshealthmonth.org/week/index.html

Here's this month's ACS Cancer Awareness Calendar  http://www.cancer.org/
    * National Cancer Survivors Day (June 6)
    * National Men’s Health Week (June 14-20)
    * Men’s health/cancer awareness (Father’s Day: June 20)

July is UV Safety Month, but don't wait 'til then to use the sunscreen.  :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on June 16, 2010, 05:50:12 PM
Thx for the reminder Joel!

You guys should all try face potion.  Its the shiznick
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Great Bass 2 on June 16, 2010, 08:39:34 PM
Joel

If you are feeling fine then a checkup once a year should be fine. If you have symptoms, get them checked out. Cancer screening for men doesn't start until 40-50 years for prostate and colon cancer. There is no routine screening for other cancers for men. Don't be too hard on yourself my friend. A few months earlier may not make a difference in the long run. We all make the best decisions for the most part given the information we have.  Hindsight is always 20/20. What does matter is what we do moving foreward. Hang in there.

Scott
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on June 16, 2010, 08:51:43 PM
Nicely said Scott.

Joel, excuse my ignorance, but if the doctors don't have the biopsy results, how can they tell that it is stage 4?  You're a stronger man than myself; I was wincing in pain just reading what they did to you.


Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on June 16, 2010, 08:55:45 PM
Thanks Mooch for putting the reminder out there

"And that Jimmy is the story of the first colonoscopy"

I saw that on an "old guys"  birthday card years ago and it always stuck in my head, well all my co-workers now know the full blow by blow story of MY first colonoscopy.

But seriously, the prep was unpleasant, but that's all just unpleasant, and the procedure from start to finish was really no big deal (sedated of course).  And the five women in the exam room were a kick, said they were having a party and I was invited,

The best part was waking up half-way thru and seeing my very own insides up on the bigscreen, Woo Hoo..

It's just not that big of a deal, If you're in the age bracket "get'er done".

My doc said yeh it's unpleasant but think of the alternative.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ben on June 16, 2010, 09:33:38 PM
Joel, I'm so sorry my friend to hear this news. You have been an inspiration to us all and we wish you the very best. I know a few people that have had stage four cancer and have beat it. I know that if yours is beatable you will! Very much appreciate the updates. Your in our prayers.

Like Dale L, I went for my first colonoscopy last year. To all of you who are putting this off, DON'T! The worse thing about having one is drinking the laxative the night before and running to the bathroom. The actual procedure is nothing. I had a couple of polyps removed during the procedure but didn't know anything until I was told afterword. I'm clear for 5 years before I have to have another one. If your 50 and over, don't put this off.

Ben

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 09:52:33 PM
Quote
There is no routine screening for other cancers for men.

Scott, it's not just about cancer. It's really anything that's out there to kill us is what we need to address. Symptoms or not, get yourself checked anyway.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Jedmo on June 16, 2010, 09:54:48 PM
Thanks for the push Mooch. Yeah, I'm guilty as well of not getting a yearly physical exam. I will make an appointment first thing tomorrow. Take good care
of yourself bro and keep thinking positive. Remember you have tons of bros and sis
ready to be there for you.

Jedmo
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 16, 2010, 09:58:07 PM
Nicely said Scott.

Joel, excuse my ignorance, but if the doctors don't have the biopsy results, how can they tell that it is stage 4?  You're a stronger man than myself; I was wincing in pain just reading what they did to you.





Michael, the PET scan found metastasized cancer.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on June 16, 2010, 10:19:20 PM
I tend to agree with you here Mooch. My dad self diagnosed his "really sore throat" as a cold. A year and a half later, he was medically diagnosed with stage 4 throat cancer. A simple trip to the doc a year and a half earlier would have made a huge difference. With that said, I haven't seen a doc in years, I admit I'm a pussy, the doc freaks me out.  To Scotts point, even once a year is a great game plan, but don't ignore those nagging pains or even a simple sore throat. Now that I have a daughter, and Mooch has awaken me to the seriousness of not getting checked, I'm going to be responsible and get checked.  It doesn't take much time and takes minimal effort.

Your a posive influence man, I don't mean to be negative or a whiner about my dad, but we miss him dearly. I appreciate you speaking up and getting people talking, that's what it's all about man, keep up the positive vibe dude.  
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Great Bass 2 on June 17, 2010, 06:50:40 AM
That is correct Joel. The annual checkup includes screening for chronic conditions (heart disese, diabetes), immunizations, BMI and blood pressure.

As far as colon cancer screening after age 50 there are 3 options including annual stool tests to check for blood which is what I chose.

Scott
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: HDRich on June 17, 2010, 07:20:20 AM
I have a full physical every year, and had my first colonoscopy at 50.

Had my first corotid ultrasound at 50, and was told I had the arterial system of a 77 year old man. Advanced arterial scelrosis.

Don't smoke, not a heavy drinker, not much of a meat eater, exercise a lot...... Got my Dad's genes.....

Cool thing is my Doc has now specialized in preventing heart attacks in guys my age with this disease. In 4 years, I now have the arterial system of a 71 year old man. That's an amazing 10 year swing.

Joel, the technology we have today is incredible. Keep the faith brother!!

Rich
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FisHunter on June 17, 2010, 09:19:42 AM
i am soooooo not wanting to get a scope up my rectum yet,,,,,but what i am really not wanting to do is miss a meal, like i heard is needed. 

they say Latinos need to go in at 40 = i'm only half mexican, so i'll round it out to 45 and go then,,,,,i just remembered.... i just turned 45 :smt013  a laxative the night before? WHY!!!!!!!!!!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: INSANEDUANE on June 17, 2010, 09:31:39 AM
dam I haven't been to a doctor in 10 years I think it is time to go  :smt012
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on June 17, 2010, 09:58:56 AM
Honestly I'd feel more comfortable going to a veterinarian.  Can't stand doctors and hospitals.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: HDRich on June 17, 2010, 10:00:54 AM
Adam,

Dude, its oh so much more than a laxative. It is an entire purge..... You'll be clean as a whistle, and then the camera can see what's going on. And you can watch the whole process (in color)...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PISCEAN on June 17, 2010, 10:27:07 AM
  a laxative the night before? WHY!!!!!!!!!!!

traffic reduction. Got to have a clear road for the camera :smt002.

I also have been guilty of taking the "tough guy" path on occasion, but that's been more about my PCP changing every couple of years. I've been through 3 so far. The first thing I asked my current doc was "are you going to live here in Santa Cruz?" He wanted to raise his kid in a coastal town & was prepared for the monetary sacrifice so he's been my Dr for 4 years now.

Shoot, I'm 40 now? When did that happen? :smt012

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: HDRich on June 17, 2010, 11:15:18 AM
You're just a kid Sean.....
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: LilRiverMan on June 17, 2010, 11:33:43 AM

Quote
Honestly I'd feel more comfortable going to a veterinarian.  Can't stand doctors and hospitals

Well Eric, everybody says, "You're such an animal".
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on June 17, 2010, 11:45:13 AM
Honestly I'd feel more comfortable going to a veterinarian.  Can't stand doctors and hospitals.

OK Kramer!   :smt005  You are one funny dude, e

And the five women in the exam room were a kick, said they were having a party and I was invited,

Kidding right?  Man, I cannot wait ...  :smt011
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sin Coast on June 17, 2010, 11:59:35 AM
Thanks for reminding us to take care of ourselves, Moochy.  We all need a little nudge every now and then.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FisHunter on June 17, 2010, 12:16:32 PM
Adam,

 And you can watch the whole process (in color)...
SWEET! i always wondered what my boss saw in me, and now I'll get to see his point of view for a change.  :smt003 &inCOLORtoo?!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on June 17, 2010, 01:36:09 PM
Honestly I'd feel more comfortable going to a veterinarian.  Can't stand doctors and hospitals.

OK Kramer!   :smt005  You are one funny dude, e

And the five women in the exam room were a kick, said they were having a party and I was invited,

Kidding right?  Man, I cannot wait ...  :smt011

Not kidding one bit,,
The only other guy involved was the first nurse I had, he's the one that gave me the gown and slipped the needle into my arm. In the exam room I was the only guy, by the time you get that far a little humor and a what the hell attitude prevailed.  They were all wearing face shields too :smt044

Seriously though at that point do you really want a guy with his hand on the probe?:smt005

The whole point of this thread is just do it!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: swellrider on June 17, 2010, 03:48:53 PM
Joel,
You've been in my thoughts constantly since I read you were diagnosed with Cancer. I've known you on this site for years now and though we haven't met in person, you've always had my deepest respect as a kayaking professional and stand up guy. You have such a big heart and it's a tough situation you're put in. You are no doubt feeling a wide range of emotions and at the same time getting advice from all angles. This brotherhood here is a good support network and if ever there was a time to just let go and be supported now is the time.

We are very reluctant demographic for going to the doc. I consider myself a hypochondriac but rarely do I actually get anything checked out. I lived at a monastery in the Himalayas for a short period of my life and after I had been there a month the Abbot asked me if I had been to see the doctor yet. He was very emphatic about it. I assured him I was feeling fine, healthy as a horse. He hit me over the head with his prayer book and said here in the East we don't go see doctors when we are sick, we see doctors to prevent from getting sick in the first place.
Our western doctors and even culture is designed around treating disease and sickness not preventing it. We have to take it on ourselves and follow Mooch's timely advice and make sure our doctors look us over like a stockcar at the indy 500

I put your name on the prayer list at that Monastery Joel. I don't know your spiritual inclinations but my Grandpa would always tell me to steer for any port in the storm. I'll keep you in my thoughts and ready the driftboat for when you're up for a Klamath/Smith run.
-Hawk
http://monlam.org/
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 17, 2010, 04:08:39 PM
Thank you Hawk  :smt006

 
Quote
my Grandpa would always tell me to steer for any port in the storm.

 :smt023 :smt023 :smt023 :smt023 Wise words from a wise man!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: RacinRob on June 17, 2010, 05:00:23 PM
Honestly I'd feel more comfortable going to a veterinarian.  Can't stand doctors and hospitals.
My wife is a veterinarian, but no exams at the Pay It Forward Paddle. Although she does have those long gloves for examining cattle. :smt003
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: kayakjack on June 17, 2010, 08:24:12 PM
my doctor said he wouldn't give me a colonoscopy until i am 50. i am not afraid of this procedure but apparently my doctor is. I am however, terrified of catheters.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: jonesz on June 17, 2010, 10:44:18 PM
Hawk, very well put. Especially the first paragragh.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: ex-kayaker on June 18, 2010, 08:17:02 AM
i am not afraid of this procedure but apparently my doctor is.


Haha.....Jim Rome discussed this on his show once, I believe the topic was Dr. JellyFinger.  The show producers dad told Jim a story about his Doc and "the test."  The dad is in Dr. JellyFingers exam room and he starts putting on his glove, the Dad looks at him and says, "geez Doc, I hate this part," to which dr. JellyFinger replies, "the day you start enjoying this part is the day I'm gonna ask that you find a new physician." 


so kayakjack....would you rather have a doc that enjoyed giving the exam? 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: eyeatbay on June 19, 2010, 11:41:05 PM
Joel -
Wish you best!  You are a positive influencer in this community. I am proud of you as an accomplished kayak angler and great coach to beginners of this sports. More importantly you have always reminded people of safety with kayak fishing. Many of us have benefited from listening to you!

Thanks for speaking up. I am guilty of deferring physical checkup. It is overdue. This sad news reminds me of needing to set up an appt with dr. asap.  exam/checkup is no longer nice-have!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on June 21, 2010, 11:00:02 AM
The dad is in Dr. JellyFingers exam room and he starts putting on his glove, the Dad looks at him and says, "geez Doc, I hate this part," to which dr. JellyFinger replies, "the day you start enjoying this part is the day I'm gonna ask that you find a new physician." 

ROFLMAO!!

 :smt044
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Squidder K on June 21, 2010, 12:12:49 PM
Joel points the need to get checked for cancer, but get checked for other things.  I meet Veterans all the time who are otherwise fine and have a resting blood pressure of 170/120, I ask them if they have high blood pressure, and I get the standard answer of "no, I feel fine."  Those numbers lead to kidney failure, stroke and or death.  It is called the silent killer for a reason.  My own introduction to the wonderful world of healthcare came after my tour in Iraq.  I felt crappy, always tired, getting up everynight to urinate, headaches, and mood swings.  I finally went in for my post deployment physical, not thinking anything is wrong and the doc asks me "How long hav eyou been a diabetic?"  WTF, I am not a diabetic, I don't weigh 300 pounds and am sedintary?  Sure enough I was and still am.  I know others on the forum are too.  We deal with it.  We are all sucepitbal to other wonderful things if we don't manage it properly. 


Some folks I have worked with over the years ar eprone for stuff:

Pale skin white folks: we need to make sure we wear plenty of SPF, check yourself for moles, if they are odd shaped or changed recently in size or shape go get checked ASAP.  I recently heard a report that talked about the size of a mole to the chance of cancer survival and it 1/8th inch difference can be the difference between 80% survival and 50% survival.

Black/Afro American: watch the sodium intake, hypertension is a killer in Afro Americans.

Hispanic/Latinos:  High numbers in hypertension and diabetes

2 types of cancer I keep hearing more and more of is male prostate and pancreatic cancer.  I am not sure if it is men are talking about it more or there is a rising trend. 

Much of this stuff is preventable and or treatable.  Go get checked!

On a lighter note, I gotta ask, Fish hunter what is up with your Avatar?  You look your like pole dancing or something.  Scary image indeed!

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on June 21, 2010, 12:40:07 PM
Quote
I felt crappy, always tired, getting up everynight to urinate, headaches, and mood swings.

Minus the headaches, you are describing what I assumed is normal....

and skin cancer?  I figured they just cut off the offending mole, not thinking people actually die from it...  I have one that has definitely gotten larger.



Ok ok, I'll make an appointment today.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on June 21, 2010, 02:10:16 PM
Regarding skin cancer, today is Summer Solstice, the longest day of the year and a good time to remind ourselves to cover up, sunblock or otherwise.

Remember to re-apply sunblock while out in the sun, too - most sunblocks don't last all day. I'm guilty of not doing this and end up a little burned at the end of the day.

Be sure to protect your eyes with polarized sunglasses as well, especially on the water. Sun damage may be a factor in macular degeneration, which is irreversible.

Here's some info you might want to pass on to family members, particularly younger women who like to tan: http://news.yahoo.com/s/livescience/20100620/sc_livescience/whyskincancerisontherise
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Wldrnshntr on June 21, 2010, 03:01:41 PM
my doctor said he wouldn't give me a colonoscopy until i am 50. i am not afraid of this procedure but apparently my doctor is. I am however, terrified of catheters.

my first was when I was 37 family history , Gramma died at 54 gramps 67 of colon cancer  going in next month again at least the laxative has improved the new stuff doesn't leave you dehydrated
I hate the part  where the doc is pulling the cam out of my ass yes you can feel everything when you wake up. Is kind of neat to watch.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Squidder K on June 24, 2010, 09:14:34 PM
Quote
I felt crappy, always tired, getting up everynight to urinate, headaches, and mood swings.

Minus the headaches, you are describing what I assumed is normal....

and skin cancer?  I figured they just cut off the offending mole, not thinking people actually die from it...  I have one that has definitely gotten larger.



Ok ok, I'll make an appointment today.

Eric, I was getting up 3,4,5,6,7,8, times a night, headaches that never went away, moods that were just plain nasty.  I kept thinking it was PTSD or something, never once did think it was Diabetes.  My urine levels were 1000, and normal levels are <100.  Blood glucose was around 280, and normal is also <100.  Those numbers explained a lot, I was stunned.  As for the moles it can get serious quicker than you think.  get them checked ASAP!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sledge on June 25, 2010, 08:52:28 PM
All right Damit I'll get checked...nxt month after i turn 50...hate hospitals...lots of broken bones..........man u can be healthy and go to a hospital and get STAFF!!!  Been there done that...bone infection in my leg from the freaking hospital... :smt009  and every mememory of a hospital is "not good"...PAIN GAME!!! 

 Just Because we have someone to remind us...I will...thanks bro...how can i not after reading all these posts... :smt044 :smt044 :smt044


Look what u started... if your  in that "age range"....hello 5 hot honeys... :smt005  wait a minute...were thos nurses hot???  hehehe
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: baitNbeer on June 29, 2010, 05:54:24 PM
yesterday i got word from my uncle,freind of the family had backpain that kept getting worse and she finally went in , they x rayed her and found 2 huge masses , there gonna open her up to see what there dealing with but its not looking good, shes in her 40s still with a husband and 2 teenage children

shes in the same cancer section of the hospitable that she works in.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on June 29, 2010, 08:10:28 PM
Quote
I felt crappy, always tired, getting up everynight to urinate, headaches, and mood swings.

Minus the headaches, you are describing what I assumed is normal....

and skin cancer?  I figured they just cut off the offending mole, not thinking people actually die from it...  I have one that has definitely gotten larger.



Ok ok, I'll make an appointment today.

Eric, I was getting up 3,4,5,6,7,8, times a night, headaches that never went away, moods that were just plain nasty.  I kept thinking it was PTSD or something, never once did think it was Diabetes.  My urine levels were 1000, and normal levels are <100.  Blood glucose was around 280, and normal is also <100.  Those numbers explained a lot, I was stunned.  As for the moles it can get serious quicker than you think.  get them checked ASAP!
Hummm... Though not as extreme as you reiterated, I've definetly felt similar to Eric in this regard.  Ok... Time to setup an appointment.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 29, 2010, 10:41:47 PM
glad everyone is stepping up to the plate! Go see a doc now, prolong your life, get healthy and get everyone else involved.....

...just imagine how much fun it would be when we old NCKA'ers get together 20 - 30 years from now for a badass reunion :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on June 30, 2010, 09:13:36 AM
My appointment is tomorrow @ 12:30.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on June 30, 2010, 09:25:10 AM
Well, i got checked. Had a nagging side pain an heavy abdominal pressure on my left side under my ribs, feels swollwn inside, and my hearts been jumping around randomly in my chest.  The doc got to know my arse, NOT FUN, but part of the deal i guess.

Went to urgent care. Gave 3 things of blood. No infection. But my liver enzymes are elevated and my potassium is low, not a good thing. Didnt know how important potassium is to your heart, might explain my heart jumping around.

Had to return yesterday for an ultra sound. No lumps or bumbs, but my GI tract is swollen.

Off work today and back to the doc tomorrow. Hope to figure this out soon. Ive been ignoring it for months.

Thanks Mooch for getting me motivated to go man. Things could have got worse maybe.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: ex-kayaker on June 30, 2010, 09:29:03 AM
...just imagine how much fun it would be when we old NCKA'ers get together 20 - 30 years from now for a badass reunion :smt002




Hmmm....I'll only be about 50, I'm not sure that me and Brian G can handle all the wheel chairs and diaper changings.  :smt003
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on June 30, 2010, 09:49:19 AM
That damn ZOOSK ad is giving me transient hypertension lol
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Surf Hunter on June 30, 2010, 11:58:13 AM
My appointment is tomorrow @ 12:30.

Yay!  Hope all goe well.


Mooch,
Were they able to identify the type of cancer yet?
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Blue Jeans on June 30, 2010, 12:57:58 PM
...just imagine how much fun it would be when we old NCKA'ers get together 20 - 30 years from now for a badass reunion :smt002




Hmmm....I'll only be about 50, I'm not sure that me and Brian G can handle all the wheel chairs and diaper changings.  :smt003

Not sure what shape I will be in at that point either! I have asthma. I have take albuterol and starting to see low potassium levels and chest pains at times. Went to the doc, said to get some exercise and lose another 10 lbs and cut salt from my diet to get the blood pressure down. Not so young and invincible anymore.

-Brian G
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: bluekayak on June 30, 2010, 01:23:12 PM
Not to be spreading fear factor here but asthma symptoms and chest pain are classic symptoms of PE

Might at least be worth asking about the possibility
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PISCEAN on June 30, 2010, 03:10:26 PM
cursed mortality :smt011

Ok, got my mid-life checkup scheduled, soonest appt I could get was in a week.

good luck to all out there.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Wldrnshntr on June 30, 2010, 04:21:15 PM
cursed mortality :smt011
amen to that

Reading this stuff I'm right with Mooch about getting checked

but then again if I look at my own situation truth be told I'm the least likely person I know to go to a doctor when something ain't right



+1 I always try to fix myself can't help but think my Doc. is an idiot but no one else around taking new patients
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: TailWalk on June 30, 2010, 07:55:02 PM
...just imagine how much fun it would be when we old NCKA'ers get together 20 - 30 years from now for a badass reunion :smt002

Looking forward to see you then... Keep that spirit high, Brother!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: shasta_steve on June 30, 2010, 08:59:17 PM
I know I am horrible about going to the doctor.  My dad had colon cancer about 8 years ago.   He is doing great but I know my chances are much greater because of it.   My mom is on me all the time to go and get checked so I guess it is about time for me also.
 
Recently my wife was not feeling well and I pretty much made her go to the doctor.  Luckily it was only a sinus infection but I made an appointment for a physical for her anyway.  The doctor found lump on her thyroid gland and after further tests it looks like it might be cancerous but they are not 100% sure.  In a couple of weeks she will have her thyroid removed and completely checked for cancer.  The doctor says even if it is cancer she will likely be just fine but it is still a scary time.   As much as I hate going to the doctor I guess it is a lesson for me to go and get checked too. 

Good luck Mooch.  I have not gotten active in NCKA events like I had planned yet but I have always enjoyed reading your posts.   You can tell a lot about a man by the number and quality of his friends.  You sound like a hell of a guy and I look forward to meeting you someday. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on June 30, 2010, 09:07:29 PM
Thanks Steve - I hope for the best for your wife! Keep us in the loop. The more we can share our personal experiences, the more we can make a difference as a group of like minded people!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: beenfishin on July 16, 2010, 11:40:43 AM
I went to the doc last week to have two moles checked out that have looked strange for a few years.  My wife had been bugging me forever to get them looked at, never thought it too important.  I thought he would simply "shave" them off, nope...cored them like an apple.  10 stitches, moles gone, test results this morning they were benign..it's all good but early detection is critical.  With as much time in the sun we spend, keep it covered and keep an eye on it.

Wishing you the best Mooch, thanks for inspiring me to get my clean bill of health.

-beenfishin (Ben)
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on July 16, 2010, 12:05:47 PM
Good for you Ben  :smt023 And thank you for sharing your experience. Hope we can get others motivated enough to go see a doctor NOW. We are no longer the teenagers we once were.....our one to two day healing process is looooong gone  :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PISCEAN on July 16, 2010, 12:16:07 PM
We are no longer the teenagers we once were.....

...except mentally :smt003
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on July 16, 2010, 12:18:55 PM
We are no longer the teenagers we once were.....

...except mentally :smt003

AMEN!  I say "Stay young at heart"  :smt045
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on July 16, 2010, 12:41:30 PM
A while back when the reports here first surfaced, I was talking to some coworkers and the subject came up. Several people said they would go get checked, four did it, three got a clean report, one found some polyps and she is being treated, it looks like it was caught in time. Good news overall. Let me reiterate, GET CHECKED!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dogpound on July 16, 2010, 01:57:01 PM
I don't want to beat a dead horse but getting checked saved me from a probable heart attack.  I also had a mole removed from my head that had been there for too long, fortutnately was benign.  I too was neglectfull in going for a check up I did not get a physical for 11 years from 18-29.  When I finally went for one, I found out my cholesterol and triglycerides were higher than my doctor had ever seen in some one my age and with a family history on both sides of heart problems needless to say he and I were quite concerned.;  i have since with diet and medicine got them under control, and have routine blood tests to monitor.  The doctor said that even a few more years left unchecked I more than likely would have had a heart attck in my early thirties.   Like has been said here before, doesn't matter what the ailment, Cancer, heart disease, etc.  get it checked, even if you feel fine.  I had no symptoms of anything. Thank you Mooch for sharing your experience with us, and inspiring all of us to be a little more proactive in our health.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: guitarzan on July 16, 2010, 02:44:27 PM
Anita is a cancer survivor. She had a mole on her arm checked and it was melanoma but she caught it before it got deep or in her bloodstream, so she just has a scar where they took out a medallion sized chunk, if you have spots and spent your youth in the sun, get them checked, when they get too deep, they hit your bloodstream and spread very rapidly, most melanoma deaths are from spots that have been there for a long time and never checked out. There are certain types of moles to look for, others that dont fit the bill......
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: beenfishin on July 16, 2010, 03:46:30 PM
For moles my doc said anything two-toned (brown/red) or very dark, anything rough on the surface, one that bleeds, or anything that's noticeably growing in size.  My old man is going in and having melanoma plugs removed every few months, years of SoCal surfing and highway construction.  Makes me a bit paranoid, my munchkins barely leave the house without sunscreen and a big hat!
-ben
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PISCEAN on July 20, 2010, 10:34:24 AM
I finally shut up the teenager in me & listened to the guy who said "you are over 40 now" (funny, that little guy seems to communicate through knee & elbow pain most often, the bastard) & did the big checkup.

All systems good at the baseline, now off to the skin doc next.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on July 20, 2010, 10:58:43 AM
I finally shut up the teenager in me & listened to the guy who said "you are over 40 now" (funny, that little guy seems to communicate through knee & elbow pain most often, the bastard) & did the big checkup.

All systems good at the baseline, now off to the skin doc next.

Sean, do you know a good doctor here in the area??

I usually just go to the walk in Mar Monte clinic in Watsonville when I have gotten sick or burned myself with hot-oil while frying fish!!

I got some skin/mole/growth stuff I'd like to get checked out and maybe get the "big check-up" done too, but don't have a ton of faith in the walk-in place...I went once before and they just burned one off (didn't check it to see if it was benign or anything as far as I know) and now it is back and there are several more that have popped up right around it.... :smt012

Worst thing is the location...right between upper thigh, nutt-sack and butt-cheek...to be honest I thought it might have been a little something that followed me from my single days down in Nicaragua, but doc at the clinic said no...

Now with it coming back, and there being a few more that seem to be coming up right around it, I think I should get a second opinion??? :smt009

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on July 20, 2010, 11:02:25 AM
Glad to see this thread growing!

I've been asked many times why I went public with my Cancer. It's simply "awareness" and I know Brent and Jim are with me on this.

Being in a family plagued by cancer, it's something that's hard to ignore. Early detection can make a big difference and that's where I failed. I was stubborn and now I'm paying for it. Don't do what I did - DON'T WAIT and DON'T think you are invincible. You can look and act healthy but that's just not enough.

In my family of 8, (mom, dad, 3 boys and 3 girls) my mom and my eldest sister battled and survived breast cancer. My dad passed at age 52 of Lymphatic cancer and my other sister at age 42, passed from breast cancer. And now I'm the 5th in the family with cancer. My biggest fear is having my mom go through the pain of seeing another Lotilla pass. I'm on a mission to beat this and I'm blessed to have so many friends backing me up. THANK YOU!

and now I leave you with this  :smt003

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGt5f70K02Q



Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on July 20, 2010, 11:23:43 AM
Glad to see this thread growing!

I've been asked many times why I went public with my Cancer. It's simply "awareness" and I know Brent and Jim are with me on this.

Being in a family plagued by cancer, it's something that's hard to ignore. Early detection can make a big difference and that's where I failed. I was stubborn and now I'm paying for it. Don't do what I did - DON'T WAIT and DON'T think you are invincible. You can look and act healthy but that's just not enough.

In my family of 8, (mom, dad, 3 boys and 3 girls) my mom and my eldest sister battled and survived breast cancer. My dad passed at age 52 of Lymphatic cancer and my other sister at age 42, passed from breast cancer. And now I'm the 5th in the family with cancer. My biggest fear is having my mom go through the pain of seeing another Lotilla pass. I'm on a mission to beat this and I'm blessed to have so many friends backing me up. THANK YOU!

and now I leave you with this  :smt003

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGt5f70K02Q





That is a unreal family history bro... What your doing by going public is right on! OSmething to be proud of, shit i went to the doc, i hadnt gone since i was a teenager... I was scared too.. Your doing the right thing and Ill back ya 100%...

It was good to see people chatting cancer at the vent, thats the awareness part, my old man was stubborn too, it cost him his life... Right as he retired and was ready to travel the world with my mom....

I feel for your Mom, that's tough, I can't imagine my girl being sick, id ramage for sure.... Thank you for you honesty Joel....
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PAL on July 20, 2010, 11:27:03 AM
Joel, you da man!

This thread was on my mind when the family doc gently reminded me to check in with a new dermatologist. I went yesterday for a thorough looking-over. Not bad, at least skin-wise.    

You can't be too careful. I'm here now because the women in my life noticed something looked wrong with my skin. It was melanoma, caught early, way back in 1994. I was 27 at the time. That's 16 years of bonus time and counting.

Thanks Joel for raising awareness. You're making a difference.  

 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on July 20, 2010, 11:31:38 AM
Quote
Thank you for you honesty Joel....

Brent, I think of this as giving back to NCKA  :smt002 You and Jim planted the seed with "Pay it forward". I'm hoping to see this event grow....


"There are those who suffer unnecessarily"
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on July 20, 2010, 11:34:55 AM
Quote
Thank you for you honesty Joel....

Brent, I think of this as giving back to NCKA  :smt002 You and Jim planted the seed with "Pay it forward". I'm hoping to see this event grow....


"There are those who suffer unnecessarily"

Lets do it, Im a 100% commited to it...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on August 11, 2010, 06:31:17 PM
This reminded me of this thread:  http://health.yahoo.net/rodale/MH/wake-up-save-your-life
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: polepole on August 17, 2010, 02:12:25 PM
Got my physical today.  Cholesterol a little high, Vitamin D a little low, but passing grades other than that.

-Allen
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on August 18, 2010, 10:35:52 AM
Cholesterol a little high, Vitamin D a little low

Sounds like you need to get out and yakfish, and in direct sunlight  :smt001
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: DaveW on August 19, 2010, 05:38:07 PM
Yeah, i got checked too.  Doc said I was one ugly son of a bitch, but there's nothing he could do about it.  :smt009

I'm really not a big fan of the prostrate check.........especially because my doc is a guy I surf with.  I don't really have those kind of feelings for him.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on August 19, 2010, 05:58:44 PM
....I'm really not a big fan of the prostrate check.........especially because my doc is a guy I surf with.  I don't really have those kind of feelings for him.

Nope, I don't like it either but getting checked could save a child's father.

In addition to the prostate check annually after age 50, we are advised to have a colonoscopy once every five years, too. They put you out, you don't feel a thing. Do it, the life you save may be your own.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Surf Hunter on August 30, 2010, 09:41:23 AM
Another reminder, GET YOURSELF CHECKED!

My mom just had a colonoscopy done and they found a tumor much too large to remove.  She is scheduled for surgery soon to remove the tumor and have a biopsy done it.  Hopefully it will come back as benign.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on August 30, 2010, 09:56:57 AM
Sorry to hear that, hope she will be fine!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on August 30, 2010, 10:40:35 AM
Another reminder, GET YOURSELF CHECKED!

My mom just had a colonoscopy done and they found a tumor much too large to remove.  She is scheduled for surgery soon to remove the tumor and have a biopsy done it.  Hopefully it will come back as benign.


Hope all works out well. And THANK YOU for posting about it. Please keep us updated!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Surf Hunter on August 30, 2010, 11:36:34 AM
Another reminder, GET YOURSELF CHECKED!

My mom just had a colonoscopy done and they found a tumor much too large to remove.  She is scheduled for surgery soon to remove the tumor and have a biopsy done it.  Hopefully it will come back as benign.


Hope all works out well. And THANK YOU for posting about it. Please keep us updated!

Will do.

I was mistaken by the surgery.  She finds out the  results of the CAT scans today then they will discuss how to proceed.  Got that from my sister today, my mom was pretty shook up when I spoke to her last week.  Can't say I blame her.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PaulR on September 01, 2010, 09:16:51 PM
I went back to the doctor after 5 years (never had a problem)
High blood sugar (now I have diabetes which I didn't know about)
Vitamin D so low that doc put me on 50,000 units once a week plus 2000 every day
High cholesterol

Scheduled for colonoscopy in 3 weeks.

Thanks to all NCKA for the push (I don't say "maybe tomorrow" anymore)

Oh yeah, AND I HAVEN'T CAUGHT A FISH ALL YEAR (time to cash in the WAF points)

I still feel fine and MOOCH has always been my mentor ever since he sold me my 1st kayak and all of the genuine help and time that he gave will always be remembered.

PaulR
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on September 01, 2010, 10:54:38 PM
Thanks for posting Paul! Better finding out now than later!

Paul, I'll take you to the secret striper spot at Del Valle :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Surf Hunter on September 02, 2010, 08:11:43 AM
Well, poop.  Gt this message from my mom yesterday.  She is taking it well, and actually saying screw it and taking a long weekend at a beach house in Florida.




Saw the surgeon today at clear lake and he won't do the surgery.  He is turning me over to MD Anderson, because of the location of the tumor etc.  I will need chemo and radiation.  So now we wait to get into MD Anderson, the surgeon thought that would take about one week.
I'm sorry it's not better news.  We'll deal with this and be all the more better next year.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on September 02, 2010, 10:44:04 AM
Well, poop.  Gt this message from my mom yesterday.  She is taking it well, and actually saying screw it and taking a long weekend at a beach house in Florida.




Saw the surgeon today at clear lake and he won't do the surgery.  He is turning me over to MD Anderson, because of the location of the tumor etc.  I will need chemo and radiation.  So now we wait to get into MD Anderson, the surgeon thought that would take about one week.
I'm sorry it's not better news.  We'll deal with this and be all the more better next year.

Very sorry to hear about your Mom...sounds like she is taking it extremely well and with a positive attitude...good for her!!!

I will keep your family in my thoughts and prayers...

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: PaulR on September 02, 2010, 08:31:36 PM
Thanks for posting Paul! Better finding out now than later!

Paul, I'll take you to the secret striper spot at Del Valle :smt002

Thanks for the offer.
I might bring dynamite if thats what it takes
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on September 03, 2010, 08:59:13 AM
Quote
I might bring dynamite if thats what it takes

Make sure you get that $100 permit first.  Otherwise, some a-hole on this board will narc on your ass.

~~~~

§ 225.  Use of Explosives in State Waters   Explosives may not be used in the waters of this state inhabited by fish except under a permit issued by the department pursuant to the provisions of this section. The permit fee shall be $ 100.

14 CCR 225

~~

Sorry to hear about your mom Surf Hunter.  Her positive mental attitude is inspiring

While I am sure Paul was kidding...please don't confuse narcing a-holes with A-Hulls!!

 :smt004 :smt003 :smt005 :smt044

Nice find Martin on how much it costs to go blow-up stuff...giving me ideas!! Just kidding!

 :smt002

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on September 04, 2010, 09:13:11 AM
Surfhunter, she could end up being just fine, all you can do is support her bro. Keep us posted.



A holes narc,  A- Hulls will never narc.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Surf Hunter on September 04, 2010, 09:50:36 AM
Surfhunter, she could end up being just fine, all you can do is support her bro. Keep us posted.


will do, her attitude is great.  Instead of waiting for her appointment at MD Andersons, she and my step dad flew to Florida to hang with some friends at a beach house for this week. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on September 04, 2010, 10:00:06 AM
Thats the way to do it. Wining attitude   Best wishes bro.

Wheres Andy1976, think thats his screen name. Wasnt his mom fighting too? Hope all is well for them.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Shicken on September 17, 2010, 04:16:30 PM
I was just diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, aka "cantonese cancer".  Tumor in the nasal passage above the throat.  I will receive chemo and radiation for treatment.

Prognosis is good.. looking forward to kicking it and getting back to normal.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: bmb on September 17, 2010, 04:27:32 PM
I was just diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, aka "cantonese cancer".  Tumor in the nasal passage above the throat.  I will receive chemo and radiation for treatment.

Prognosis is good.. looking forward to kicking it and getting back to normal.


tell us more marv...what made you feel that something was wrong?  at what point did you decide to go to the doctor?  was there any type of symptom that made you think...i need to go to the doctor now!

and of course i'm happy to hear that it is a cancer with a well known treatment plan rather than something more serious (you had me REALLY worried there last week), and i'll help out with whatever you need buddy..

i just can't quit you
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on September 17, 2010, 04:33:10 PM
Marv~
Kick the sh!t out of the Mother F***er!!!!!!
We're here for you brother.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: fishemotion on September 17, 2010, 11:26:11 PM
Marv,

Praying for you to have a speedy recovery... hang tough! You are strong(albeit maybe a little soft in the waistline area the last time i saw you :smt008).

I'm going to the gym now for some long overdue exercise and a swim. Don't forget about exercise peoples! Exercise helps the body and mind to heal.

Ed

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on September 19, 2010, 08:40:33 PM
I was just diagnosed with nasopharyngeal carcinoma, aka "cantonese cancer".  Tumor in the nasal passage above the throat.  I will receive chemo and radiation for treatment.

Prognosis is good.. looking forward to kicking it and getting back to normal.




Marv - keep us in the loop and let us know if there's ANYTHING we can do for you!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Anacapabob on September 19, 2010, 09:08:08 PM
I saw a Dermatologist and got a passing grade luckily on Wednesday.  He told me to use sunblock as an aftershave in the morning.  I asked if is shound come back in another 3 years and said, "No way.  Come back each year." 
My prayers are towards you all and your families that are in the battle.
Tight lines.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on September 19, 2010, 09:17:21 PM
I
Quote
asked if is shound come back in another 3 years and said, "No way.  Come back each year." 

...and I hope EVERYONE does this! :smt045
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Shicken on September 28, 2010, 03:05:22 AM

tell us more marv...what made you feel that something was wrong?  at what point did you decide to go to the doctor?  was there any type of symptom that made you think...i need to go to the doctor now!

and of course i'm happy to hear that it is a cancer with a well known treatment plan rather than something more serious (you had me REALLY worried there last week), and i'll help out with whatever you need buddy..

i just can't quit you

I had been feeling crappy for a while - fatigued, nasal/sinus congestion. . then I noticed my lymph nodes on my neck were enlarging, and i was getting random nose bleeds = time to see the doc.  The docs ordered a biopsy on the lymph nodes on my neck, a chest x-ray, and bloodwork, and ultrasound to check thyroid.  They didn't mess around.

The lymph node biopsy results came back positive for nasopharyngeal carcinoma cells.  I was then referred to the ear/nose/throat specialist.  The bloodwork was good, normal blood cell counts, normal renal function.  Chest x-ray was good - no lung cancer, thyroid was OK.  The ENT Dr. explained what was happening and they were going to get me back on my feet and be with me all the way.  The Dr. stuck a camera in my nose to see the tumor, and then performed a biopsy on it.   She estimated 7 weeks for treatment - chemo and radiation.  

I just had a MRI on my head/neck today, and will have a followup appointment with the ENT on thursday.

Thanks everyone for your support.  :-)

I was taken care of at the urgent care clinic, and ENT clinic at SF general hospital.  Cancer treatment will be at UCSF med center.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on September 28, 2010, 07:15:17 AM
Marv,

I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers, and be sending good vibes your way for a speedy recovery.

Please do not hesitate to let us know if there is anything you think we can do to help...

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dpshim on September 30, 2010, 09:52:51 AM
Marv,
The entire NCKA family is right here with to support you anytime,anywhere. We wish you a full and speedy recovery brother as our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your entire family :D

Much love,
Daniel
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bigfoot on September 30, 2010, 10:32:22 AM
+ 1 Marv. Knock the piss out of it!!
 Randall
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: bmb on September 30, 2010, 10:53:40 AM
good to hear that you're feeling a little better now that you're on a break from work marv. 

big surprise, i guess we could all use a break from time to time rather than pushing ourselves so hard.
Title: SAVE THE TA-TAS!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on October 03, 2010, 02:59:51 PM
Don't let cancer steal second base!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Remind the females in your life to get checked, donate to research.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Jedmo on October 03, 2010, 09:25:34 PM
Hey Marv, I just found out by Mooch about your cancer while baby sitting him at the RBC. So sorry to hear about that bro. I'm glad to know that there is cure and
that you'll be back on your feet in no time. Please don't hesitate to ask for any
kind of help bro. We are all here for you. FYI, I wasn't really baby sitting Mooch.
I was still in the process of getting over my flu. :smt002

Sorry to hear about your mom too Tom. By the sound of her attitude about it, I
honestly think she will beat this thing as well.

Jedmo
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Danglin on October 17, 2010, 09:35:35 PM
Hey Shicken...

Sorry to hear this,, hope your doing well and thanks so much for coming out to HOW last week...

 The NCKA Fam is hear and just say " When " and we are there...

 We have had 3 new incidents of young firefighters coming down with some sort of ca.  this is getting a little to frequent...

and with all these Colonoscopy stories.......

maybe a little laughter lightens the load....

  Billy Connolly - Colonoscopy (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBMsPNI6EZE#)



 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on October 18, 2010, 05:02:46 AM
 :smt005 :smt044 :smt005
That vid by Billy Connoly is hilarious. The flow can be as bad as described, but there was no fire as he related. . . . TMI, I know.

Don't let the exaggerations for the sake of laughs scare you off from the test, it's not that bad and it could well save your life!

John
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: iroelikethat on October 18, 2010, 12:12:34 PM
sorry to hear this Schicken... hope all goes well for you..
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MontanaN8V on November 24, 2010, 11:02:06 AM
Crawling through briars and blackberries with my pup on Sunday looking for quail, I aquired several ticks.  After my shower, I began looking for more ticks, and noticed several moles that were not there before.  SOme of them were raised, and multi colored.  I called my Dr. yesterday, and went in this morning for a check up.  I have to go back this afternoon for biopsies.  She feels that some of them are suspect, and that I am very smart for getting them checked ASAP.  I am sure, without a shadow of a doubt, that I would not have given this a second thought had it not been for Mooch, and everything he has gone through.  I am confident that the Drs will get me taken care of, and if the worst should happen, I know, my pals at NCKA will back me up.  I guess in the season of Thanksgiving, I have to say thanks to Mooch.  I hope the moles are nothing to worry about, and if they are, we will deal with them.  But thanks Joel for the awareness, and I know you are getting your last round of chemo today, and I hope it goes well.  Hurry up and get on your feet, so we can go shoot some ducks!  Pepper is ready to retrieve a bird for you!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on November 24, 2010, 10:09:52 PM
Quote
and I know you are getting your last round of chemo today, and I hope it goes well

Thanks brother! My Chemo was rescheduled for Dec 2.


I hope and pray that you get a clean bill of health and THANK YOU for passing on the awareness!!!

*Keep us posted brother!!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: [WR] on November 27, 2010, 09:13:10 AM
Not only regular checkups/physicals, to catch or prevent, but don't forget eye exams too. Recently found out i have cataracts in both eyes, and surgery is scheduled for Dec 9th.

Simple operation, but damn, at my age??

No wonder is was having trouble reading street and road signs.  :smt013
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MontanaN8V on November 29, 2010, 01:00:34 PM
Well, my ordeal came out well.  They sent in one biopsy, and the dermatologist said that the rest of them are not in the category of concernable moles.  The sample sent in was more for piece of mind than anything.  I kinda view it as a second chance, and rest assured, with a lot of friends having skin cancer, that are or just older than me getting it, (Mooch you old fart) I better start now, and pass it on to the kids.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on November 29, 2010, 01:22:40 PM
Glad your check up went well  :smt023
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on April 02, 2012, 07:16:51 PM
bump
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on August 16, 2012, 11:19:21 PM
bump
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on August 17, 2012, 08:51:08 AM
Since Mooch bumped this, I figured I'd add my 2 cents;
Instead of a colonoscopy, asked my doctor about a colonography.  Also known as a virtual colonoscopy.  It's done by a CAT scan or CT for short.
You still need to cleanse the colon, but instead of a camera, a schrader valve is put in the bung hole and your colon is inflated.  Then a 3D image of your entire gut region is performed.  A regular colonoscopy can examine only the inside of your colon.  The colonography views the inside AND the outside.  Not only that, it views all the other organs around there; kidneys, liver, bladder, even the lower lobes of your lungs.  Which is where my bad news came in; After the procedure, a radiologist reads the pretty pictures, then calls your primary care physician who calls you with the results.  Well...  they found 'something' on my left lower lobe of my lung.  I guess it wasn't big because they told me that I was to wait 6 months and another CT would be performed to see if there was a change in size.  Now, that's a LONG six months waiting.  I didn't even want to worry the wife so keeping it to myself wasn't that fun either.  6 months went by and I had the CT.  Nada!!  Great news!!  Turns out that after talking to the doc about my medical history that the spot was either due to scarring left from a bout of pneumonia or from a motorcycle accident several years ago. 
The thing is though, I've had several chest X-rays in the  past for various trauma events and there's never been any indication of any masses.  The CT was much more detailed in it's 3D rendering of what my innards looked like. 
So, think about it and ask your doctor if a CT colonography is right for you.  My doc told me the only real downside is that if they did find a polyp, then another procedure to remove it would be done at a later date instead of right then with the colonoscopy.  I felt that was worth the risk considering all the other organs that were now going to be checked over as well as the outside of the colon itself. 
Cheers!   

****EDIT****
This procedure required pre approval from my insurance company.  They approved it without any question.  Checking later, the cost between the two options; colonoscopy and colonography, was almost the same. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on August 17, 2012, 08:59:56 AM
I'm going in today...got some stuff going on that has been bugging me and time to come clean with the doc and see wassup.

Been having pain underneath my armpits and there is a little sore, swollen bump there in each pit...I thought it was just maybe wetsuit burn from diving a bunch until I felt the bumpy things.  :smt012

Could just be swollen glands from fighting an infection?

Also got some bumps down by the boys that the wife wants me to get checked out.  :smt009

Have to go to my buddy and team ShickenMooch member Miguel's Dad's funeral at 10am then stop by the doc on the way back to the office.

TGIF?  :smt011

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Shicken on August 17, 2012, 09:09:02 AM
Skipro,

Thanks for the insight into your CT's and colonography.   :smt001

BigJim,

Sounds like swollen lymph nodes due to an infection.  Hope you get better soon.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bird on August 17, 2012, 09:26:03 AM
Thanks for the info and reminder SkiPro3.  We met at CCK in Rancho when you were buying your Hobie. Just turned 50 this year and Kaiser has been encouraging the colonoscopy - need to get her done!

Good luck BigJim!   :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sin Coast on August 17, 2012, 02:33:08 PM
the only real downside is that if they did find a polyp, then another procedure to remove it would be done at a later date instead of right then with the colonoscopy. 

I was gonna mention this ^
Unfortunately, I had to do both. At age 28.


Also got some bumps down by the boys that the wife wants me to get checked out.  :smt009
After having hernia repair surgery last year--I hope it's not that. Because it sucked.
 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on August 17, 2012, 02:43:47 PM
Doc says the armpit thing is my lymph nodes fighting off some infection...not sure what cuz I really don't feel sick?  :smt012  Anyway, he said if it gets worse to come back.

Gave me a referral for the bumps down by the boys....and a list of physicians at my local PAMF that I can call to get established as a regular patient....and a referral to get a vasectomy as well.  :smt003

Overall, pretty good trip to the doctor's office...glad I went...this thread ws a big motivator for me.  :smt001

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bird on August 17, 2012, 02:46:53 PM
Good news Jim, glad to hear.

Might want to have the doc check the boys for an allergic reaction to excessive MFE exposure!   :smt044
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on August 17, 2012, 02:56:42 PM
Might want to have the doc check the boys for an allergic reaction to excessive MFE exposure!   :smt044

 :smt002

 :smt005 :smt044 :smt005 :smt044 :smt044 :smt044

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Andy1976 on August 17, 2012, 04:04:00 PM
Doc says the armpit thing is my lymph nodes fighting off some infection...not sure what cuz I really don't feel sick?  :smt012  Anyway, he said if it gets worse to come back.

Gave me a referral for the bumps down by the boys....and a list of physicians at my local PAMF that I can call to get established as a regular patient....and a referral to get a vasectomy as well.  :smt003

Overall, pretty good trip to the doctor's office...glad I went...this thread ws a big motivator for me.  :smt001

 :smt006
Think real long and hard befor you get a vasectomy.  Spend some time investigating the side that has done it and wishes they hadn't. There can be side effects.  One is lowered testosterone That can come from your body creating an immune response.  Not sure what else but you can also have chronic pain and psychological issues. It's not as symptom free as the doctors will tell you.

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on August 17, 2012, 04:06:56 PM
Doc says the armpit thing is my lymph nodes fighting off some infection...not sure what cuz I really don't feel sick?  :smt012  Anyway, he said if it gets worse to come back.

Gave me a referral for the bumps down by the boys....and a list of physicians at my local PAMF that I can call to get established as a regular patient....and a referral to get a vasectomy as well.  :smt003

Overall, pretty good trip to the doctor's office...glad I went...this thread ws a big motivator for me.  :smt001

 :smt006
Think real long and hard befor you get a vasectomy.  Spend some time investigating the side that has done it and wishes they hadn't. There can be side effects.  One is lowered testosterone That can come from your body creating an immune response.  Not sure what else but you can also have chronic pain and psychological issues. It's not as symptom free as the doctors will tell you.

Sincerely,

Jim

Thanks Andy...I'll do some more reseacrh...I just really can't financially afford another munchkin (and am very satisfied with the ones I have) and have no self control when it comes to making them.... :smt002

Thanks again for the heads up.

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on August 17, 2012, 07:35:20 PM
Glad your OK Jim, thanks for leading the charge. Hope this thread gets a "bump" every now and then.  :smt045

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: mooch on August 17, 2012, 07:55:53 PM
oh, and if you ever get stung by a sting ray, see a doctor asap.....Glen?  :smt011 :smt008
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: sonoramike on August 17, 2012, 08:17:00 PM
Sorry if this has already been said but if you go in to see a dr for a butt check be sure to make it very clear to the office staff that it is billed to your ins. As preventive not diagnostic .Under new laws as of last year a preventative butt check has to be 100% coverd by your insurance .If it is billed as diagnostic they will bill you.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Andy1976 on August 17, 2012, 08:42:00 PM
Sorry if this has already been said but if you go in to see a dr for a butt check be sure to make it very clear to the office staff that it is billed to your ins. As preventive not diagnostic .Under new laws as of last year a preventative butt check has to be 100% coverd by your insurance .If it is billed as diagnostic they will bill you.
Good info
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingForTheCure on August 17, 2012, 08:57:14 PM
Sorry if this has already been said but if you go in to see a dr for a butt check be sure to make it very clear to the office staff that it is billed to your ins. As preventive not diagnostic .Under new laws as of last year a preventative butt check has to be 100% coverd by your insurance .If it is billed as diagnostic they will bill you.
Good info
....if not, it won't be the only thing up yer keester.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MontanaN8V on September 21, 2012, 03:44:13 PM
Ok now can I make cancer jokes? No, I wont, but I have four benign tumors on my spine, between the vertebrae and the spinal cords growing between the membranes. It is called Osteoid Osteoma. Fairly common in men between ages 20 and 40. The growths usually do not get larger than 1.5 cm, and miraculously, go away after about three years. They found it when I had pneumonia before the Montana trip, and the CT scan showed them. I held off on the biopsy until we got back, and had the worst in the back of my mind the whole trip. Tuesday, they took biopsies of two of them they could get to easily, by using a needle to take samples. Hurt like mad! The symptoms were being masked by my previous back injury/surgery, in that the symptoms are dull pain, becoming severe in the evenings. That is the exact course of pain I have been having, so with some hope, once the tumors are taken out, there is a very good chance that I may be pain free!!!! Most likely not 100% pain free, but enough that I might be able to be more active than I have been this last year, and be able to sit in a kayak again long enough to catch some fish!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: iroelikethat on September 21, 2012, 03:57:57 PM
glad your okay brother!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on September 21, 2012, 04:00:07 PM
That would be great Rich if it is what's causing your pain.
Hoping for the best outcome for ya.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MontanaN8V on October 06, 2012, 09:14:13 PM
Guys, day two, COMPLETELY PAIN FREE! I have been pushing it a bit too. Went hiking and fishing the high lakes on 88 today, all day. Tomorrow we are going buck hunting, and have a good hike planned. You have no idea how alive I feel, and able! You will see me on the water very soon!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: bwodun on October 06, 2012, 09:32:15 PM
so happy for you rich, being free from severe back pain, only in my wildest dreams, will this happen, enjoy the new freedom my friend, cameron
Title: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Mr.Matt on October 06, 2012, 09:39:23 PM
Right on Rich!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Madam Kat (team_chancho) on October 27, 2012, 08:39:30 PM
For those of us who have cancer running in the family we have to get checked as well... even us women. I started getting my 5 year colonoscopy checks at 21.
I also have to worry about silly things like HPV which men carry but more often then not show no signs ir symptoms. I was told around 22 that I had HPV strain 16, which is one of the high risk strains. Luckily it has not progressed (as far as I know) ...

 I think that is enough divulging of things for now.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MontanaN8V on October 31, 2012, 01:42:36 PM
Kat, I am sure you have the Chancho strain in your system! I heard it only lasts 9 months, but we all know that is bull crap! They need to make a birth control pill, that works after the fact. In my case, WAY after the fact.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Madam Kat (team_chancho) on November 02, 2012, 02:39:53 PM
LOL, yeah the 9 months thing ... it lasts till they leave the house.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Weimarian on November 02, 2012, 02:56:59 PM
Ah, but when your old... You get to unexpectedly drop in on your kids to visit the grandchildren with awesome mountains of candy and loud ass toys that the batteries never die on. Eat their food then leave without even clearing a dish!!!! NICE :smt044 :smt044 :smt044 :smt044 On the original thread, I already got checked and will every 2 years now. Rich, sooooo happy for you bro!!! Sometimes doctors DO help. Glad you got some relief :kick
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on March 19, 2013, 10:11:19 AM
! BUMP !
Everybody that is hitting the big 50 this year and all those that already are in their 50's and have not been checked in 5 years - make that appointment!!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on March 19, 2013, 10:15:40 AM
Great reminder!

I actually went yesterday and FINALLY got established with a GP and have a whole array of blood work scheduled for tomorrow.

 :smt001

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: scottiedawg66 on June 25, 2013, 11:44:18 AM
I am very new here, and new to the kayaking scene.  But after reading all these stories and seeing all the support I wanted to chime in with my own story.  Here is the most important part.

** even the young members need to keep an eye on their bodies ** check you moles and body often for abnormalities. 

I am 29 years old, lead a healthy lifestyle out side of drinking loads of beer, never been sick a day in my life and I am about to start treatment for stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  I noticed a lump under my left arm after a motorcycle crash at Sonoma Raceway on May 1st where I cracked most of my ribs.  The lump grew quickly and I went in for testing.

I have 0 symptoms outside of this lump.  If I had not had that crash it might have never showed itself.   Keep an eye on your body and never forget to stay focused on what is important in life. 

~scotty
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingForTheCure on June 25, 2013, 11:49:47 AM
Scotty...

   Welcome!  Thanks for sharing your story.  It's all too true.  I'm as guilty as the next ... maybe even more so.  My dad went at 72.  NEVER sick ... EVER.  Out of nowhere ... cancer & death.

Bill
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: CGN-38 on June 25, 2013, 04:19:31 PM
 :smt006

  I'm glad the outcome from the problems in your back have started to finally turn around and be positive!  It surely could have gone the other way. Nobody wants to see that!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: CappyMoMo. on June 25, 2013, 05:03:12 PM
I am very new here, and new to the kayaking scene.  But after reading all these stories and seeing all the support I wanted to chime in with my own story.  Here is the most important part.

** even the young members need to keep an eye on their bodies ** check you moles and body often for abnormalities. 

I am 29 years old, lead a healthy lifestyle out side of drinking loads of beer, never been sick a day in my life and I am about to start treatment for stage 4 Hodgkin's Lymphoma.  I noticed a lump under my left arm after a motorcycle crash at Sonoma Raceway on May 1st where I cracked most of my ribs.  The lump grew quickly and I went in for testing.

I have 0 symptoms outside of this lump.  If I had not had that crash it might have never showed itself.   Keep an eye on your body and never forget to stay focused on what is important in life. 

~scotty

Scotty,

Very scary!  We wish you the best in your treatment.   Get to the best facility you can afford or steal so that you can afford the best.  We have a friend in Santa Barbara that is an oncologist.   He finished all of his school work fairly recently.   He said that many oncologists are working on very outdated information and it is critical to get the best Dr you can.   He said he sees that the doctors generally ten years behind the currently available information.  Get to a major medical center and PUSH them!  I hope you can recover in a timely manner, however Stage 4 does sound very scary.  Take care buddy.  PM me if you  think I can help out with something.  These guys should be the best http://www.mdanderson.org (http://www.mdanderson.org)  My dad has done well with his very bad prostate cancer here http://www.cityofhope.org (http://www.cityofhope.org)  I'm sure Stanford would have excellent treatment options as well.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: scottiedawg66 on June 26, 2013, 04:18:32 PM
thank you momo! That is very sound advice.

 I am very lucky to have been accepted to the tumor board at UCSF.  The type of lymphoma I have is very rare, less than 100 cases per yer in the US.  I am also working with another local oncologist who is a lymphoma specialist. 

I am staying positive hopefully I will be able to spend some time in my yak during my treatment. 
Title: My Uncle Kelly
Post by: & on July 01, 2013, 04:30:15 PM
After 20+ years as a public servant, most of which was spent as an expert HazMat firefighter/medic, my uncle in law finally retired a couple years ago to pursue his life-long passions of fishing, hunting, and working on his mountain ranch home.

I turned him onto kayakfishing in '09, shortly before his retirement. 

See http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=18407.msg182985#msg182985. (http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=18407.msg182985#msg182985.) 

He liked it so much, the following weekend, he purchased two fully rigged hobies from Kayak Connection in SC Harbor.  You may have run into him at some point if you fished SC, since he was often locally targeting hallies, RF, and WSB with one or both of his younger sons.  But most of the time, he and his boys were up in the hills, fishing and laboring and happily spending time in the woods.

Two months ago he went to the doctor, experiencing unusual changes of mood and unilateral irregularities in motor function.  Diagnosis:  brain cancer.  Terminal.  12-18 months.     

He lived his entire life as a moral, hard working person of the utmost character, looking to settle into a well-deserved retirement that would have paid reasonable benefits for the rest of his life.  Only to be told it would all be taken away in a year.  The inequity and randomness of it all has me puzzled and furious.  Am left to question so many things and about the Grand Design of life.  But mostly, I'm gutted over my family's impending loss of a dear husband, father, uncle, and friend.

When you can, please think a cheerful, positive thought for a fellow kayakangler whose time OTW will have been far too short.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on July 01, 2013, 05:43:10 PM
Man, this is heartbreaking Martin.  Thought and prayers for sure!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: scottiedawg66 on July 01, 2013, 05:51:32 PM
What a sad story, life is so unfair.  My condolences and positive vibes for a better than expected lifespan.  It sure puts my story in perspective. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: fishkraft on July 01, 2013, 07:43:01 PM
So sad and it's all too common... There's no explaining it. It just is.

Blessings on you and your's
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Mr.Matt on July 10, 2013, 07:46:47 AM
Will give this a bump.

Went Saturday for blood work, I'm 41. Wife also went same age.

Doc called and said I have to come in...soon as possible. Wouldn't give me any info over the phone. Lovely.

Wife got an email saying alls good.
Apparently not so much for me.

So... GET YOURSELF CHECKED.
Guess I'm not doing anymore casino runs.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingForTheCure on July 10, 2013, 09:22:06 AM
Hoping for the best for ya Matt  :smt006

~Bill
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: vwool on July 10, 2013, 09:26:32 AM
Sending good thoughts your way Matt.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on July 10, 2013, 09:31:14 AM
Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers Matt...

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: beenfishin on July 10, 2013, 09:41:56 AM
Will keep you in my thoughts and prayers Matt...

Sincerely,

Jim

X2 amigo, hoping for the best!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on July 11, 2013, 12:48:36 PM
Guess I'm not doing anymore casino runs.

All the more reason.  fingers x'd for you bro
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: raydon on July 11, 2013, 01:07:20 PM
Uncertainty is scary.  Praying that your uncertainty is nothing. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on October 02, 2013, 04:33:40 PM
Didn't think I'd be posting up on this one as I'm pretty good at preventative stuff, PSA tests ever few years, the incredible journey AKA colonoscopy, and even dermatology for burning off the pre-cancerous patches.

This post I guess is more on the keep a routine for those checks.

2yrs ago I went to see the dermatologist for removal of some odds-n-ends that were showing up.

At that time I had a suspicious looking little brown spot on my ear lobe.  Doc took a close look with a magnifying glass and passed it as OK.

As time went on more of those pesky odds n ends showed up and that brown spot had started to get bigger. It actually started to look like the poster pic of melanoma.

Short story, she trimmed it off, called me today, said it's melanoma, scheduling me to have more cut off in the next week or so.

Melanoma is the type of skin cancer that can spread to other organs and can do you in.

They'll probably take the whole ear lobe she said, but after that everything should be OK. 

I'm glad I went when I did, but I wish I'd gone in sooner,
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishFarmer on October 02, 2013, 08:03:43 PM
Hey, good you kept on it and are getting it taken care of. Hope all goes well.

Ben
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on October 02, 2013, 09:20:46 PM
Hey, good you kept on it and are getting it taken care of. Hope all goes well.

+1, thanks for telling your story Dale.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on October 02, 2013, 09:24:58 PM
As for me, I was inspired by Joel and finally got off my ass and made an appointment with a general practitioner after way too long.  As a lifelong asthmatic with allergies, I've been seeing an allergy specialist for the last 5-6 years, but haven't had a GP for almost a decade despite the fact that I have awesome health care.  :smt011

Long story short, I'm working on lowering my high blood pressure through natural methods.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on October 03, 2013, 08:11:49 AM
Hey, good you kept on it and are getting it taken care of. Hope all goes well.

+1, thanks for telling your story Dale.

+1.

Will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers Dale.

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on October 03, 2013, 09:34:49 PM
Lose the lobe & keep everything else, Dale. Hoping for the best.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on October 07, 2013, 04:17:28 PM
Thanks for the kind thoughts but at this point I think it's no big deal, just a little trim, and to note that as Mooch asked, Get Yourself Checked.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on October 30, 2013, 09:24:46 AM
Thought this thread should be posted here as well...

http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=49721.0 (http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?topic=49721.0)

I think Joel would be proud of us all for getting our mercury levels checked if we eat a lot of fish.

 :smt001

Miss you bro!!!!!!

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on October 30, 2013, 10:30:31 AM
Hey, good you kept on it and are getting it taken care of. Hope all goes well.

+1, thanks for telling your story Dale.

+1.

Will be keeping you in my thoughts and prayers Dale.

Sincerely,

Jim

Lose the lobe & keep everything else, Dale. Hoping for the best.

Ear lobe is gone, biopsy on the borders is clear,  but I'm on an increased cycle to go to dermatology,  Have you seen my dermatologist? :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on December 04, 2013, 07:29:23 PM
Time for a thread bump.

Got my kit ready. Going in for my colonoscopy on Friday.

Don't forget or hesitate to get yourself tested!

Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on December 04, 2013, 07:41:52 PM
Heyyyyy, I recognize that jug.  Good Luck, and hoping you get the 10 yr stamp.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: raydon on December 04, 2013, 07:44:46 PM
Being informed and proactive is good medicine.  Praying for both Dale and Alfredo. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on December 06, 2013, 08:44:25 PM
Heyyyyy, I recognize that jug.  Good Luck, and hoping you get the 10 yr stamp.

All good, thanks.  Got my 10 year stamp.

Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: otobepelagic on December 06, 2013, 09:50:33 PM
Heyyyyy, I recognize that jug.  Good Luck, and hoping you get the 10 yr stamp.

Here is a hint.. Light some scented candles in the bathroom. I got the five year return....but at least I got checked. When asked how the evening went with the cleansing the night before I told the Doctor I had worse results from bad south of the border street food...even he laughed. The doc was telling the nurse how much sedative to give me I spouted "double what ever he said"..hehe...I woke up alone and confused.

Get Yourself Checked
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bird on December 08, 2013, 10:44:44 AM
Heyyyyy, I recognize that jug.  Good Luck, and hoping you get the 10 yr stamp.

Here is a hint.. scented candles....how the evening went bad south of the border...I woke up alone and confused.

Get Yourself Checked

Allen, I just skimmed your message but I think I got the main highlights?????  :smt044

OK, time to quit joking around for me.....just got my third "request" from Kaiser....time to hit the jug for the first time. Thanks for the reminders guys!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: ravensblack on December 09, 2013, 08:54:25 AM
Ask if you can watch! its like the voyage into a worm hole. hahahah I watched for the sigmoid but the full scope was knocked out . I just remember waking up and hurting. :smt044 :smt044 Doc said Im the perfect assshole. I know one guy who will agree. At least.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Anacapabob on January 16, 2014, 06:02:34 PM
Choking down the gallon of medicine for tomorrow's "procedure."
It is exactly as I thought.  Awful! Kind of taste like alka selzer without
the bubbles.  I feel like a goose on a wildlife refuge.  :smt012
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bushy on January 16, 2014, 06:06:33 PM
Been there done that.  You're doing the right thing. It is worth it!

It'll all be better sometime tomorrow.

Bushy
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: otobepelagic on January 16, 2014, 06:21:06 PM
Choking down the gallon of medicine for tomorrow's "procedure."
It is exactly as I thought.  Awful! Kind of taste like alka selzer without
the bubbles.  I feel like a goose on a wildlife refuge.  :smt012

Good for You..no, make that Great for You for following through on the "procedure"! Keep this thread alive! Hoping all goes well for You!

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: SeaWeed on January 16, 2014, 06:35:37 PM
How often should we get checked. I did it around age 50. but thinking if it is time again.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on January 16, 2014, 06:39:16 PM
Choking down the gallon of medicine for tomorrow's "procedure."
It is exactly as I thought.  Awful! Kind of taste like alka selzer without
the bubbles.  I feel like a goose on a wildlife refuge.  :smt012


Good for you! The purge is nasty, but worth the inconvenience. Hope it goes well for you. :smt006

Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: dilbeck on January 16, 2014, 07:55:54 PM
Aw yes, A$$ piss!  Stay close to the toilet.

Way to follow through Bob.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Anacapabob on January 17, 2014, 10:22:08 PM
Been there done that.  You're doing the right thing. It is worth it!

It'll all be better sometime tomorrow.

Bushy

Worth is right Allen!  I can breath a sigh of relief and it is behind me for 5 years
now that there are no polyps or problems back there.  :smt006
I went in early because I have a colon cancer history in my family and my wife
would not leave me alone about checking.
The procedure was a synch and I walked out high as a kite!  :drunken_smilie:
Zero pain.  Just hungry now and blowing off some gas.  No biggie. 

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on February 22, 2014, 07:27:50 PM
Becky has a friend whose wife has had a cold since December.
She's the very outdoors type; fishing, hunting, backpacking.
Three weeks ago they were pheasant hunting.
She went to see the Dr last week for her cold.
Cancer, two weeks to live. Probably won't make it through week two.
Definitely get yourself checked.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Mr.Matt on February 22, 2014, 07:52:00 PM
Damn.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: [WR] on February 22, 2014, 08:25:04 PM
Don't forget the ticker.

My family has a huge negative cardiac history. Dad was a 16 year quad bypass recipient, just about everyone on all sides of the family has an issue with the heart or vascular system. Then add in diabetes. Geesh just shoot me already.

Have had over the years, several episodes that had been diagnosed as untreated heart attacks. Finally had enough of the FUD factor, and with the new wife being so supportive, I went back to my regular MD and asked for a further set of tests.

Those started in November and lasted through early Dec. and included a stress test with dye and several other non invasive tests.

Finally after Christmas, the good news. I'd never had a heart attack, the muscle is clear and undamaged, the arteries are not clogged, and I just need to get off my fat ass, exercise, and change the diet to more healthy items.

So, down from 283 now to 274 and still dropping, increased activity, and will see where this goes.

Now, I gotta go get the inflatable butt plug test like the rest of us over 50..

Last thing, then to my corner;
Do Not be afraid to have cataract surgery. Its 45 mins of prep, 10 mins in the chair, you wear an eye patch for 8-10 hours, and your vision improves greatly. Sure you may still have a light corrective lens prescription, but it will be very mild. For those of us with decent health insurance, expect to come out of pocket for around 5-600 per eye, and the insurance picks up the rest, which is usually triple that. And do take the happy pill, its worth it.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: RacinRob on February 22, 2014, 11:26:48 PM
Damn Tote. Tell Becky I'm sorry to hear about her friend.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on February 23, 2014, 12:11:23 AM
Sorry to hear about Becky's friend.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on February 23, 2014, 08:01:12 AM
Becky has a friend whose wife has had a cold since December.
She's the very outdoors type; fishing, hunting, backpacking.
Three weeks ago they were pheasant hunting.
She went to see the Dr last week for her cold.
Cancer, two weeks to live. Probably won't make it through week two.
Definitely get yourself checked.

Thats rough, sorry to hear it. Too bad there weren't other signs she would have noticed earlier.
Please give Becky a hug for Andie and I.

Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on April 13, 2014, 06:16:24 PM
BUMP!!!

If you are or nearing 50, if your bowel has changed its functional norms, if something feels different, go Get Checked!

Don't put it off.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: oldfart on September 14, 2015, 06:27:13 PM
Remembered this thread and thought it was a good idea to bring it back.

A couple of months ago my wife saw a small mole on the side of my chest and remarked that she hadn't noticed it before and that I should go to thd doctor and have it checked out.  I looked at itand was unimpressed.  It didn't look anything like the small melanoma (in situ) that I had removed 25 years ago.  Recently I looked at it and it seemed larger and darker so I went to the Dermatologist and had it removed.  The path report came back today as positive for melanoma with a mitotic figure.  It is staged as a T1b which is the second best rating but I will still need to have  surgery to remove a larger area around where the mole was to make sure it was clean and probably have a sentinal lymph node removed to make sure it hasn't gone there.
If I had it removed a couple of months ago I would probably be done with it now.  If I waited a couple of month more to have it removed the report would probably been much worse.

So as a reminder to you all, if you see anything new or suspicious,

GET YOURSELF CHECKED   GET YOURSELF CHEDKED
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: matanaska on September 15, 2015, 08:31:14 AM
I could use a checkup, but I need health insurance 1st
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: hooper on September 15, 2015, 10:52:06 AM
Be strong, my friend that I have not had the pleasure of meeting or fishing with. Your bravery and message will be a livesaver for many of us. We just don't know it yet.
Thank you

A story I wrote after my first colonscopy 10 years ago. Maybe some can
relate.

                        The Tales of don Colonoscopy
Well, I did it. I gave myself a belated 50th birthday present by getting a colonoscopy screening. Personally, I think that everyone should, if not for themselves, but for their families. Colon cancer is a type of cancer that can be treated very effectively and has a very high cure rate. I didn’t get it for the reasons that you’ll read below, but rather for proactive health reasons. Granted, it’s 8 months after my birthday, but this isn’t something a person wants to rush into. But, on the other hand this isn’t something a person wants to avoid either, especially when colon cancer runs in the family. Fortunately, having gone through the entire process, I can say the only thing worse than the taste of the laxative that they have you to drink is the anxiety of the whole ordeal.
 
Yesterday I started the process by having to drink 12 oz of water every hour upon wakening until I had to take the laxative concoction. I’ve heard tales about the dreaded laxative, and none of them were good. It didn’t help when I went to get the laxative from the drug store and I asked the pharmacist a rather personal question. I asked her if it really tasted as bad as people made it out to be. She just smiled and replied, “worse.” Great, that really instills a lot confidence.

I tanked up on water to the point I thought I was going to float away. 3:00 came and I mixed up the dreaded potion, held my nose and jug-a-lug. Baaaaaaaaad, very baaaaaaad. The good news was that I could drink just about every clear liquid I wanted after I had taken the laxative. Water, juice, clear soup, …….. hmmm…..beer! “The doctor said, Dear, and you know how I like to follow directions!”

The bad news is that I tried just about every drinkable liquid in the house and I still couldn’t get rid of the taste. What made it worse was the attempt that the company makes to suppress the taste of whatever they put in the laxative. Lemon and ginger. To me, not a good combination. Why not something like chocolate mint or raspberry cream? No, it has to be lemon and ginger. With options like that getting this test done is going to be a pretty hard sell. But with choices like that I’m probably going to be buying a lot more bran cereal so I don’t have to have this test again.

After two hours with not a sense of well…., not a way to measure the effectiveness of this truly vile drink I was getting worried.  Well, not really worried, maybe just wondering how long that it would take to take effect. When it did start I was wondering something different, how long it would take to stop being so effective? I guess you really do have to be careful what you hope for.

Just when you think that things can’t get worse, they get worse. The directions call for a second helping of this wretched potion three hours prior to the anticipated voluntary physical abuse. So, 5:00 a.m. comes and I get up and chug down another dose, except this time I’m not supposed drink anything after taking this second dose. No, nothing to wash this vile taste out of my mouth until after the procedure is over. So, I couldn’t wait to get down to the hospital and get this dreaded procedure over with.

A lot of good that did. When I got there I found out that there were already 12 people (seriously) ahead of me doing the very same thing. My first thought was that, I wonder how many nurses call in sick on Mondays when these procedures are scheduled. What a way to start the week! Of course, it could be one of those ‘pecking order’ jobs at the hospital. You know, you have to work on the colonoscopy procedure team before you get that job in housekeeping. Now I understand why they have to run so many commercials on TV for nurses.

Soon, too soon, it was my turn to be violated. What I really found odd about the entire process was that from the time I walked into the hospital until I asked for my clothes I must have been asked for my birth date about 10 times, sometimes when the people were holding my forms in front of them. Being the curious person that I am I asked about that. Some kind of security thing. Yeh, right. Like someone is really going to try to pass themselves off as someone else just so they can get a colonoscopy? Why does everyone need to know my birth date? One side of me is saying, maybe they really don’t believe that I’m 50 years old. They probably think I’m only 40. Anyway, enough dreaming.

The last thing I remember was that the nurse asked me if I had any more questions… right after she asked me my birth date (I wonder what would have happened if I would have told her my birth date and been a day off).  It somewhat sounded like she was asking me if I had any sins I wanted to confess. I told them to feel free to be generous with the anesthesia and started to tell them a short story about when the dentist used laughing gas to put me out for a root canal. He had told me to count from 100 to 1 and so I explained to them about how far I had got.

100, 99, 98,…. “Sir,” here are your pants, as soon as you’re dressed, your ride is here. The doctor will call you in a few days with the results.” I have to believe something happened, but actually, I really don’t want to know.

The good news is I didn’t hear the doctor say, “Sir, would you please open your mouth, I think I may have gone too far.” The only thing worse would be to hear a second hand story of my all-too familiar process at the checkout counter at Safeway.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on September 15, 2015, 12:33:46 PM
They are only following protocol and attempting to determine that you are the correct patient for the 'scope.

It keeps the lawyers and insurance carriers in line, too.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sin Coast on September 15, 2015, 03:59:36 PM
That was an excellent story! You're an entertaining writer. Thanks for sharing it. And I can relate...had my first colonoscopy before I was even 30...not by choice...then last October had 18 inches of my lower colon removed & sewn back together. If I hadn't done it, I probably wouldn't be in very good shape today. Glad it's over with now and so far, so good!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on September 16, 2015, 11:47:34 PM
That was an excellent story! You're an entertaining writer. Thanks for sharing it. And I can relate...had my first colonoscopy before I was even 30...not by choice...then last October had 18 inches of my lower colon removed & sewn back together. If I hadn't done it, I probably wouldn't be in very good shape today. Glad it's over with now and so far, so good!

WTF, crohn's?
Glad to hear they pieced you back together.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on March 06, 2016, 09:18:10 AM
So I got the call from my dermatologist yesterday...  Biopsy came back positive for cancer.   Luckily it is only on the upper layer of skin and home chemotherapy gel should take care of it.

Caused by sun exposure.  We are all at risk.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on March 06, 2016, 10:16:43 AM
So I got the call from my dermatologist yesterday...  Biopsy came back positive for cancer.   Luckily it is only on the upper layer of skin and home chemotherapy gel should take care of it.

Caused by sun exposure.  We are all at risk.

Glad it's only on the top and you can take care of it at home.
As much as it sucks in another way it's great news.
Keep us posted and another reminder to get yourself checked.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: splashdown on March 06, 2016, 11:34:43 AM
http://www.miamiherald.com/living/liv-columns-blogs/dave-barry/article1928847.html
Best colonoscopy story ever written IMHO. Enjoy for all of you approaching 50!!! :smt003
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Mr.Matt on March 06, 2016, 11:48:28 AM
Man Eric B, sorry you have to go through that but on a positive note glad they got it when they did.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on March 06, 2016, 11:50:03 AM
So I got the call from my dermatologist yesterday...  Biopsy came back positive for cancer.   Luckily it is only on the upper layer of skin and home chemotherapy gel should take care of it.

Caused by sun exposure.  We are all at risk.

What were the signs that something was wrong?
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on March 06, 2016, 12:08:17 PM
So I got the call from my dermatologist yesterday...  Biopsy came back positive for cancer.   Luckily it is only on the upper layer of skin and home chemotherapy gel should take care of it.

Caused by sun exposure.  We are all at risk.

Glad you're able to take care of it early. I hope the treatment goes well.

Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on March 06, 2016, 02:32:57 PM
Warning signs were a red itchy scaly spot on my hand.  Had it looked at years ago and the Dr said she was positive it wasn't cancer, but get it checked again if it get's bigger.  It did get bigger and they told me it is eczema and gave me steroid cream.  It didn't get better so they finally biopsied it, which is the only way to be certain.

Google squamous skin cancer for more info.

Mine is on the mild side, so I'm lucky to get away with using a topical cream for 10 weeks that should kill it.  Nothing close to what a few of us have been through.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: MANBEARPIG on March 06, 2016, 04:10:07 PM
Warning signs were a red itchy scaly spot on my hand.  Had it looked at years ago and the Dr said she was positive it wasn't cancer, but get it checked again if it get's bigger.  It did get bigger and they told me it is eczema and gave me steroid cream.  It didn't get better so they finally biopsied it, which is the only way to be certain.

Google squamous skin cancer for more info.

Mine is on the mild side, so I'm lucky to get away with using a topical cream for 10 weeks that should kill it.  Nothing close to what a few of us have been through.

Sorry to hear this Eric, ill be thinking bout ya.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: ravensblack on March 06, 2016, 04:30:16 PM
What's even scarier is the fact they didn't get it bioped from the start. I'm glad you are ok buddy but fuck,fuckin jerks.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: lightfoot on March 06, 2016, 04:32:47 PM
Seems like things will work out well for you Eric.  Purely catch and release   :smt003

For those tripping on the colonoscopy, I've had two so far, both negative.  They don't hurt aside from the needle for the IV.  The prep has changed a lot from my first 10 years ago and my last, 5 weeks ago.  Ten years ago it was 3 days of skip to the loo.  Now its one day of intense don't stray too far from the bathroom and the drinks aren't bad.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: VK on March 06, 2016, 05:05:41 PM
heal well Eric..sending good thoughts and positive vibes your way   :smt001
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on March 06, 2016, 05:10:48 PM
I am not a fan of doctors, (remember it's "practicing").  But in their defense, I understand why they don't just biopsy willy nilly...  Mine left a pretty big hole in my hand.  No biggie to me, but I'm sure most people would find the scar unsightly, and people be all sue crazy.

Also, a certain type of eczema looks exactly like squamous carcinoma...  remarkably so.  Plus, squamous carcinoma usually doesn't show up in your 40's.  It mostly hits those in their 70's. 

In addition to all that I changed Dr's, and put off going back for a re-check for far too long.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: tiny on March 06, 2016, 05:45:43 PM
Hope you kill that shit Bro.See you at Albion.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: piski on March 06, 2016, 07:12:07 PM
Glad to hear it's mild enough to be remedied at home, Eric. Wipe it out.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Desertdiver on March 06, 2016, 08:20:45 PM
Positive thoughts for, hang in there.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: otobepelagic on May 17, 2016, 03:58:24 PM
Well, I can't believe it's been five years..my has time flown. Eight o'clock tomorrow morning I get the baseball bat with a Gopro attached to it. No big deal...been there..done it. Headed home to drink the magic elixir, light a scented candle, open a fresh box of baby wipes, and set up Netflix on the laptop. Gonna be a loooong night. 

Get Yourself Checked !!!

Update. All went well. If you are going to have this procedure done ask your doctor for the Suprep Prep Kit. It's much less invasive.
 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on May 17, 2016, 04:06:56 PM
Thanks for the reminder .....need to make a pot of refried beans for the taco shack  :smt028
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on May 17, 2016, 04:21:45 PM
Well, I can't believe it's been five years..my has time flown. Eight o'clock tomorrow morning I get the baseball bat with a Gopro attached to it. No big deal...been there..done it. Headed home to drink the magic elixir, light a scented candle, open a fresh box of baby wipes, and set up Netflix on the laptop. Gonna be a loooong night. 

Get Yourself Checked !!!

Remind me not to touch your laptop.  :smt044
And don't worry. I'm sure you will be surrounded by plenty of doctors. No way would they leave you in there with just one...alone...while you were unconscious......and in a very vulnerable position. Don't even give it a second thought. 
And if you wake up and are walking a little funnier than when you went in, I'm sure it's only from the instrument that was used.
Who owned it and who used it?????????   :smt102
Good luck Alanzo. I'm sure it will go just fine.   :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: snapperhead on May 17, 2016, 08:49:24 PM
Well, I can't believe it's been five years..my has time flown. Eight o'clock tomorrow morning I get the baseball bat with a Gopro attached to it. No big deal...been there..done it. Headed home to drink the magic elixir, light a scented candle, open a fresh box of baby wipes, and set up Netflix on the laptop. Gonna be a loooong night. 

Get Yourself Checked !!!

 That is the most positive outlook for that procedure ever!!! I had a partial, which means NO sedation :smt011. It felt like they were twisting a red hot knife inside my belly. The worst part is the "long night". Thanks for reviving this thread, everyone needs to see it. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on May 17, 2016, 11:24:56 PM
I had my first one about 6 yrs ago (got the 10 yr pass), rolled me into the room and there were 3 nurses and a doc, all female, one picked up the syringe of sedative, looked at me and said "we're having a party and you're invited", made me laugh, then the lights went out, briefly woke up during the fantastic voyage to see my innards on the big screen.......

I like your description of the prep supplies, pretty accurate,

Good Luck on the trip.


Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on July 27, 2016, 08:36:57 PM
Eric B, I hope you are well.

2 weeks ago had my wife get herself checked. She had her first mammogram. It revealed white spots in, now, two areas of concern.

We went back and she got a diagnostic mammogram and a ultra sound, results were the same. During this time she also located the feared lump.

The white spots were called calcification, so, their concerns are the irregular edages and branching type look?

So Monday we had a biopsy done, 12 pokes, 2 different sites.

Now we wait.

I have a lot of experience with cancer after losing my dad to a long horrible throat cancer battle.

But no experience with this.

I'm hoping things come back ok, but I'm not going to lie, I'm freaked the F--k out.  We have two little girls, which many of you know.

What can I expect here?

Any help/advice from those who've done this?

The wait is hell.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: VK on July 27, 2016, 08:46:31 PM
cant imagine what this must feel like..sending positive waves and good vibes for your wife ,you and all your family   :smt001
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Fisherman X on July 27, 2016, 09:07:26 PM
I've been there with my wife, too. The waiting for results is awful, I know. Hang in there and try not to get too worked up over what is unknown at this point.

A quote that has helped me during this type of thing as well as my own diagnosis and treatment is:

Worry is paying interest on a debt not yet owed.

Wishing you and your family a good result and strength.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: porky (bp) on July 27, 2016, 09:19:54 PM
Thx guys..

Worry, it's big internal battle of mine. I just want only the best for her and my girls, it's been a rough ride last few years for our family.

Thanks for putting it into perspective.  👍
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingForTheCure on July 27, 2016, 09:25:51 PM
Eric B, I hope you are well.

2 weeks ago had my wife get herself checked. She had her first mammogram. It revealed white spots in, now, two areas of concern.

We went back and she got a diagnostic mammogram and a ultra sound, results were the same. During this time she also located the feared lump.

The white spots were called calcification, so, their concerns are the irregular edages and branching type look?

So Monday we had a biopsy done, 12 pokes, 2 different sites.

Now we wait.

I have a lot of experience with cancer after losing my dad to a long horrible throat cancer battle.

But no experience with this.

I'm hoping things come back ok, but I'm not going to lie, I'm freaked the F--k out.  We have two little girls, which many of you know.

What can I expect here?

Any help/advice from those who've done this?

The wait is hell.
PM sent
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on April 14, 2017, 03:13:14 PM
This thread has been dormant for quite awhile but it's just as valid as ever, Yesterday I got quite a surprise on a call from my doc.

I have pneumonia,

from what I know now it could have gotten pretty serious pretty fast, but I'll be fine in a few days.

I had been experiencing some symptoms I put off to one of the bugs that had been running around my area, headache mostly along with nausea, and a little dizziness and discomfort and a temp of 101 but no cough.  Figured like any other bug I'd just ride it out as 99% of the that's your only choice, By the 4th day nothing had changed so I went to the doc and she did the usual, went over me pretty thoroughly and gave some hand eye coordination test to rule out stroke type stuff.

We talked it over and decided to see if it would resolve itself in a day or 2. A couple days later nothing was changed so I wrote her an email. 30 min later the phone rang, she told me to go get a chest xray , I was back home in an hour, an hour after that she called and said I had pneumonia and to go pick up my antibiotic. that was yesterday.

Today I got in to see her and she showed me my xray, it's ugly large cloudy area in the middle of my right lung. She said she was surprised she didn't hear it on the first visit and had me do the deep breaths while she listened, told me what she was listening for and said there still weren't any abnormal breath sounds but asked if I could feel it.  Sure enough that bit of a dull ache I felt was right where the xray showed it to be. 

IT WAS THE SAME DULL ACHE I EXPERIENCED ON THE FIRST VISIT BUT DIDN'T MENTION, I wrote it off to doing the deep breaths from a sitting position.

Luckily at this stage 5 days of antibiotics combined with a few days of taking it easy and I should be good.

Not so many years ago I'd still be sitting around waiting for it to get better as it approached something life threatening.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 01:36:10 PM
Bumping this thread as a reminder to get yourself checked!

Just had a big ass chunk taken out of my nose to remove some basal cell skin cancer. There was never really a bump or anything noticeable. One day the side of my nose was a little crusty, so of course for the first day or two I was picking at it. After awhile it was just a tiny open sore and after it hadn't healed in almost two months I decided I had better go have it checked.
My doctor said, 'Ehh, could be some basal cell, but I doubt it. We'll send you to the dermatologist just to be safe'.
The dermatologist said, 'Doesn't look like anything to worry about, but we'll do a biopsy just to be sure'.
Two weeks later I get the call to schedule Moh's Surgery.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 01:39:50 PM
 :smt078
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 01:41:53 PM
Looks a little better now....but not much.  :smt003
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on March 26, 2018, 01:43:19 PM
Looks like a bad case of nose ring removal  :smt003  Hope it heals well.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 01:45:03 PM
Looks like a bad case of nose ring removal  :smt003  Hope it heals well.

I told a bunch of people at my work that I got bit by a lorakeet when I went to the LB aquarium before the Fred Hall Show.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on March 26, 2018, 01:47:25 PM
Looks like a bad case of nose ring removal  :smt003  Hope it heals well.

I told a bunch of people at my work that I got bit by a lorakeet when I went to the LB aquarium before the Fred Hall Show.

 :smt044
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on March 26, 2018, 02:11:38 PM
No fun. I had a squamous cell thingy removed from my nose about 17 months ago, and here's what it looked like then. Coincidentally, I just had an appointment with the dermatologist last Friday, and everything seems to be OK.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 05:28:39 PM
Gnarly. Mine looked similar, but I told the assistant that I didn't want a copy of the picture...lol.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on March 26, 2018, 08:31:27 PM
Gnarly. Mine looked similar, but I told the assistant that I didn't want a copy of the picture...lol.

I got the doctor to take that picture with my iPhone. He seemed pretty proud of his work and was happy when I told him that picture was going in my Christmas card.

On a side note, after cutting it out, the doctor asked whether I wanted it sewed up or not. I’d never even thought about it not being stitched, but he insisted it would “fill in” and look fine. I told him to do whatever he thought was best, and after thinking about it for what seemed like forever, he sewed it shut.

I was skeptical that something like that could ever just “fill in” so I asked the dermatologist on Friday and she insisted that it would, and even hinted that this one might have been a good one not to stitch. If I had it to do over again, I’d probably go that route—just wish the doctor had discussed that possibility beforehand.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: alien on March 26, 2018, 08:32:07 PM
Glad you took care of it. Otherwise you would have to change your handle....take care Mann!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 26, 2018, 08:36:30 PM
Gnarly. Mine looked similar, but I told the assistant that I didn't want a copy of the picture...lol.

I got the doctor to take that picture with my iPhone. He seemed pretty proud of his work and was happy when I told him that picture was going in my Christmas card.

On a side note, after cutting it out, the doctor asked whether I wanted it sewed up or not. I’d never even thought about it not being stitched, but he insisted it would “fill in” and look fine. I told him to do whatever he thought was best, and after thinking about it for what seemed like forever, he sewed it shut.

I was skeptical that something like that could ever just “fill in” so I asked the dermatologist on Friday and she insisted that it would, and even hinted that this one might have been a good one not to stitch. If I had it to do over again, I’d probably go that route—just wish the doctor had discussed that possibility beforehand.

Yeah, my dermatologist recommended the stitches,too, but I'm pretty sure they didn't help a damn thing.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on March 26, 2018, 11:37:51 PM
Bumping this thread as a reminder to get yourself checked!

Just had a big ass chunk taken out of my nose to remove some basal cell skin cancer. There was never really a bump or anything noticeable. One day the side of my nose was a little crusty, so of course for the first day or two I was picking at it. After awhile it was just a tiny open sore and after it hadn't healed in almost two months I decided I had better go have it checked.
My doctor said, 'Ehh, could be some basal cell, but I doubt it. We'll send you to the dermatologist just to be safe'.
The dermatologist said, 'Doesn't look like anything to worry about, but we'll do a biopsy just to be sure'.
Two weeks later I get the call to schedule Moh's Surgery.

Hope it's all gone bro.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Tote on March 27, 2018, 03:31:28 AM
DAYMN bro, glad ya caught it when you did.
From here on out blame in on MMA.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on March 27, 2018, 01:30:51 PM

Hope it's all gone bro.

Thanks, all.

During Moh's surgery they remove skin layer by layer and you wait in the office while they inspect each layer of removed skin for cancer cells.  So they keep removing layers until there is no detectable cancer cells. I think the success rate is somewhere in the mid-90's.

So crossing my fingers and going back in for a full body exam in a few weeks.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Hojoman on March 27, 2018, 02:09:16 PM
Dang, Dustin. Your pics look gnarly. Glad you made the decision to see the doc.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: TexasBoy on March 27, 2018, 06:21:54 PM
Wow dustin! damn man! hope you heal up nicely dude!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Der_Huntsman on March 28, 2018, 03:32:07 PM
Bump!  Check Everything!. I got into a police academy when I was 26 and passed all of the tests, got hired by San Francisco, and just needed to have a physical. Something on my right testicle felt....different. As I was having a physical anyways I asked the doctor who recommended an ultrasound. That was on a Thursday, by the following Tuesday I was in Surgery with stage 2 Testicular cancer. My homie has a little more room to roam now, but at least I'm not dead. Went through a round of chemo and had to freeze some of the "boys" just in case. I am now 30 and I still have to go in regularly for xrays to ensure everything is good. There are some strange lumps in my right lung, but they appear to be benign. I wouldn't have gone to the doctor if I didn't have a physical schedule already. I don't care what you feel about religion, that was a higher power putting me in a situation that forced me to get checked out. Cancer aint just for old men, check your junk fellas
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bulldog---Alex on March 28, 2018, 03:59:40 PM
EYIKES !!!

I just seen this Bro. Glad you got it taken care of. 3rd pic was cool.  :smt003

Glad to hear yours has not returned N.W.   I remember when you posted that.

I get to schedule a colonoscopy test. Will be my second one. UGH ! My first was a nice Indian lady Dr. She kissed me on the cheek before she put me out .  :smt003

Another prevention test that should ( unfortunately ) be done. Starting at age 50.

Glad you guys are doing well.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: LilRiverMan on April 17, 2018, 10:28:00 AM
Thanks Dustin for the reminder. This is especially relevant to us fishermen. Where sometimes the only thing exposed OTW is our nose.  My Dad had this. They would take out a chunk. He had to wait while they checked. They did this 4-5 times. One side of his nose now looks like a zig zag. You're lucky to have caught it early
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on April 18, 2018, 03:06:11 PM
Saw dermatologist yesterday. 
Dx, "None of your moles are a concern.  Your skin type and condition, no way you will get skin cancer." 
I said, "I'm a lawyer, can I get that in writing, in your clinical notes?" 
"Oh, actually, here are the five areas that you want to watch carefully."

 :smt005 :smt011 :jerk:
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on June 08, 2018, 11:52:19 AM
The news of Anthony Bourdain's suicide made me think about this thread....

I think we often talk just about the importance of our physical health, but mental health is just (if not more) important...

I am 100% positive that there are people on here that have struggled or are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and more...including myself.

You never know what battles someone else is fighting...especially just from seeing their "online persona".

If you need help, ask for it...

I've been lucky that when I needed help at some of my darkest moments I have been able to ask for it from members on here and they were 1000% there for me.

If you are struggling just know you are not alone, and that there are people out there who love you...and there are resources out there that can literally save your life.

Don't be afraid to reach out, and don't give up...

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: TheKeeneroo on June 08, 2018, 12:04:43 PM
The news of Anthony Bourdain's suicide made me think about this thread....

I think we often talk just about the importance of our physical health, but mental health is just (if not more) important...

I am 100% positive that there are people on here that have struggled or are struggling with depression, anxiety, addiction and more...including myself.

You never know what battles someone else is fighting...especially just from seeing their "online persona".

If you need help, ask for it...

I've been lucky that when I needed help at some of my darkest moments I have been able to ask for it from members on here and they were 1000% there for me.

If you are struggling just know you are not alone, and that there are people out there who love you...and there are resources out there that can literally save your life.

Don't be afraid to reach out, and don't give up...

Sincerely,

Jim

What a legit post, Jim. I completely concur. As a 30yo with a past much gnarlier than most could imagine, it was only by the love of those around me that helped get me back on my feet. I am 8 years on a better road now.

If anyone wants someone to talk to or seek advice about someone they love who is struggling, PM me.

Much Love!

Eric
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: yatzmail@yahoo.com on June 08, 2018, 04:24:52 PM
I’m starting to think if diving is safe at all since you both do it :smt044

Great reminder and thanks for sharing  :smt007
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Dale L on October 04, 2019, 12:40:09 PM
This thread has been dormant too long,

Last week I saw the dermatologist for a couple spots, I was on a watch anyhow due to a previous melanoma. 

She did 2 biopsies, the one I was concerned about came back negative and the second came back as a new melanoma. Completely superficial (in situ) considered 0 stage as early as it gets, I'll need to get it cut out with a generous margin but should have a 95% chance of no recurrence.

Just another reminder..........





Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on October 04, 2019, 12:57:25 PM
This thread has been dormant too long,

Last week I saw the dermatologist for a couple spots, I was on a watch anyhow due to a previous melanoma. 

She did 2 biopsies, the one I was concerned about came back negative and the second came back as a new melanoma. Completely superficial (in situ) considered 0 stage as early as it gets, I'll need to get it cut out with a generous margin but should have a 95% chance of no recurrence.

Just another reminder..........

Glad to hear that you were on top of things Dale  :smt001 and thanks for reposting....
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bulldog---Alex on October 05, 2019, 12:53:33 PM
Thanks for the reminder.

Best wishes Dale.

Alex
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on October 05, 2019, 02:52:33 PM
This thread has been dormant too long, ...

Definitely so. And glad to hear that the caught that new one so early.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on June 11, 2020, 10:51:14 AM
BUMP!!!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Desertdiver on June 13, 2020, 10:36:53 AM
Long story, short version.  Referred to Dermatologist due to allergic reaction, Hmmm she says , suspicious spot on nose... lucky me  biopsy showed Basil cell (could have been worse),... MOHS procedure.. you'll feel a little pinch she says....Damn Right for 3 days.. :smt091 and some discomfort for 7 -10 days...  :smt103.  26 stitches removed tues and can finally wear my  cheap sunglasses  :glasses9: Will try on dive mask next week. Yes Dear... I will Wear my Hat, Sunscreen, and facial condom from now on when out on the water... :smt075 OK ...when ever I am outside.   Will see ya on the water and in the water soon. Stay Safe and Have Fun All.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Cabeza de Martillo on June 13, 2020, 11:01:49 AM
So glad you caught it in time Russ.

Glad you’re on the mend brother  :smt001
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on June 13, 2020, 11:09:34 AM
... suspicious spot on nose.... MOHS procedure.. 26 stitches

That must've been one impressive "spot". Glad to hear that it was basil cell--if you have to have something skin-cancer-wise, that's the one to have.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Rock Hopper on June 13, 2020, 11:37:41 AM
Long story, short version.  Referred to Dermatologist due to allergic reaction, Hmmm she says , suspicious spot on nose... lucky me  biopsy showed Basil cell (could have been worse),... MOHS procedure.. you'll feel a little pinch she says....Damn Right for 3 days.. :smt091 and some discomfort for 7 -10 days...  :smt103.  26 stitches removed tues and can finally wear my  cheap sunglasses  :glasses9: Will try on dive mask next week. Yes Dear... I will Wear my Hat, Sunscreen, and facial condom from now on when out on the water... :smt075 OK ...when ever I am outside.   Will see ya on the water and in the water soon. Stay Safe and Have Fun All.

A drink for your nose? OK we'll drink to our nose(s).

(https://images.amcnetworks.com/ifc.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/09/jaws-drunk-scene-2.jpg)


(http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=24762.0;attach=358672;image)
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: hooper on June 13, 2020, 07:13:55 PM
Our good health is the best thing we can give our families. Let's not forget about getting your PSA checked on a regular basis too. Especially if it runs prostate cancer or any cancers run in your genes.
Better to find out too soon than too late. Stay healthy.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on August 25, 2020, 06:16:44 PM
Back on July 23rd I discovered a lump on my upper left thigh accompanied with an dull ache after standing and working all day, the pain exactly like that of a hernia I had repaired on that same side back in 2012.  Thought maybe a femoral hernia this time from google search.  Saw my doc on the 28th.  She said it was not and sent me in for a CT scan.  The scan showed 3 lumps in that area, the largest measures 4.2 x 3.9 x 10 cm (162 cc or 10 cubic inches?).  So my doc sent me to a surgeon for a biopsy.  According to the pathology report, I have non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma with a differential that includes marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.  I was sent to an oncologist last Thursday.  He ordered blood tests, a PET CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy to determine staging and aggressiveness.  Waiting now for a call to schedule those.  I meet again with my oncologist in 3 weeks to discuss treatment. 
 I am not looking forward to these tests and really not looking forward to treatment. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: RacinRob on August 25, 2020, 09:49:01 PM
Back on July 23rd I discovered a lump on my upper left thigh accompanied with an dull ache after standing and working all day, the pain exactly like that of a hernia I had repaired on that same side back in 2012.  Thought maybe a femoral hernia this time from google search.  Saw my doc on the 28th.  She said it was not and sent me in for a CT scan.  The scan showed 3 lumps in that area, the largest measures 4.2 x 3.9 x 10 cm (162 cc or 10 cubic inches?).  So my doc sent me to a surgeon for a biopsy.  According to the pathology report, I have non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma with a differential that includes marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.  I was sent to an oncologist last Thursday.  He ordered blood tests, a PET CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy to determine staging and aggressiveness.  Waiting now for a call to schedule those.  I meet again with my oncologist in 3 weeks to discuss treatment. 
 I am not looking forward to these tests and really not looking forward to treatment. 

Wishing you the best of outcomes Jerry.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on August 26, 2020, 06:50:44 AM
Back on July 23rd I discovered a lump on my upper left thigh accompanied with an dull ache after standing and working all day, the pain exactly like that of a hernia I had repaired on that same side back in 2012.  Thought maybe a femoral hernia this time from google search.  Saw my doc on the 28th.  She said it was not and sent me in for a CT scan.  The scan showed 3 lumps in that area, the largest measures 4.2 x 3.9 x 10 cm (162 cc or 10 cubic inches?).  So my doc sent me to a surgeon for a biopsy.  According to the pathology report, I have non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma with a differential that includes marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.  I was sent to an oncologist last Thursday.  He ordered blood tests, a PET CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy to determine staging and aggressiveness.  Waiting now for a call to schedule those.  I meet again with my oncologist in 3 weeks to discuss treatment. 
 I am not looking forward to these tests and really not looking forward to treatment. 

Wishing you the best of outcomes Jerry.

+1

Keep us posted.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: DavidMel on August 26, 2020, 08:35:47 AM
Damn.  2020 sucks.  Hoping for the best for you.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: yakyakyak on August 26, 2020, 08:55:10 AM
Back on July 23rd I discovered a lump on my upper left thigh accompanied with an dull ache after standing and working all day, the pain exactly like that of a hernia I had repaired on that same side back in 2012.  Thought maybe a femoral hernia this time from google search.  Saw my doc on the 28th.  She said it was not and sent me in for a CT scan.  The scan showed 3 lumps in that area, the largest measures 4.2 x 3.9 x 10 cm (162 cc or 10 cubic inches?).  So my doc sent me to a surgeon for a biopsy.  According to the pathology report, I have non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma with a differential that includes marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.  I was sent to an oncologist last Thursday.  He ordered blood tests, a PET CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy to determine staging and aggressiveness.  Waiting now for a call to schedule those.  I meet again with my oncologist in 3 weeks to discuss treatment. 
 I am not looking forward to these tests and really not looking forward to treatment.
Hoping for a speedy accurate diagnosis and even better recovery  :headbang: :headbang:
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: crash on August 26, 2020, 09:15:06 AM
Jerry ,sending good vibes for the best possible outcome and a speedy healthy recovery

Co-signed.

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Weimarian on August 26, 2020, 09:46:35 AM
Did it! Colonoscopy :smt009 Failed the poop test. :smt012 No sedation... got it done without so I could drive home after (and get dinner on the way home). :cook Gentlemen let me advise you... Smoke some fine weed, :smoke ask for full pass out drugs! :smt015 Not pleasant butt, :pottytrain1: not that big a deal really. :smt002 Upper colons a BITCH though. Pushes on Diaphragm so you can't breath to well butt, only lasts for 20-30 seconds as it passes under. 3 polyps removed and biopsy came back benign... Get checked!!!!! I'm 56 and this was my first ride.  :smt044 :smt044 :smt044
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Nolanduke on August 26, 2020, 01:10:12 PM
Did it! Colonoscopy :smt009 Failed the poop test. :smt012 No sedation... got it done without so I could drive home after (and get dinner on the way home). :cook Gentlemen let me advise you... Smoke some fine weed, :smoke ask for full pass out drugs! :smt015 Not pleasant butt, :pottytrain1: not that big a deal really. :smt002 Upper colons a BITCH though. Pushes on Diaphragm so you can't breath to well butt, only lasts for 20-30 seconds as it passes under. 3 polyps removed and biopsy came back benign... Get checked!!!!! I'm 56 and this was my first ride.  :smt044 :smt044 :smt044

On behalf of dudes under 40 (Im 39 for 2 more months), I commend you for going through it.  At the same time, Id like to express how f*$%ed up you made it sound, and how little this will help me get checked...  :smt044

Jerry, wishing you the best in the coming weeks/months! 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on August 26, 2020, 03:57:03 PM
Jerry,

Thoughts and prayers going out to you. Stay strong buddy.

Al

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Darius (Burong Isda) on August 26, 2020, 04:31:39 PM
Back on July 23rd I discovered a lump on my upper left thigh accompanied with an dull ache after standing and working all day, the pain exactly like that of a hernia I had repaired on that same side back in 2012.  Thought maybe a femoral hernia this time from google search.  Saw my doc on the 28th.  She said it was not and sent me in for a CT scan.  The scan showed 3 lumps in that area, the largest measures 4.2 x 3.9 x 10 cm (162 cc or 10 cubic inches?).  So my doc sent me to a surgeon for a biopsy.  According to the pathology report, I have non-Hodgkin B-cell lymphoma with a differential that includes marginal zone lymphoma and follicular lymphoma.  I was sent to an oncologist last Thursday.  He ordered blood tests, a PET CT scan and a bone marrow biopsy to determine staging and aggressiveness.  Waiting now for a call to schedule those.  I meet again with my oncologist in 3 weeks to discuss treatment. 
 I am not looking forward to these tests and really not looking forward to treatment.
Jebuz!! Can this 2020 be over now?! Worse year ever! I hope this will pass and hoping for your speedy recovery.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on August 26, 2020, 04:36:24 PM
Best of luck Jerry.  Although, must you really wait three (3) weex for oncology return?  cant they push that up, and maybe even do a virtual meeting?
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: vwool on August 26, 2020, 10:08:54 PM
sending good thoughts your way Jerry.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Weimarian on August 27, 2020, 05:55:42 AM
Jerry, hoping and prayers for you and your family.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Weimarian on August 27, 2020, 06:01:24 AM
Did it! Colonoscopy :smt009 Failed the poop test. :smt012 No sedation... got it done without so I could drive home after (and get dinner on the way home). :cook Gentlemen let me advise you... Smoke some fine weed, :smoke ask for full pass out drugs! :smt015 Not pleasant butt, :pottytrain1: not that big a deal really. :smt002 Upper colons a BITCH though. Pushes on Diaphragm so you can't breath to well butt, only lasts for 20-30 seconds as it passes under. 3 polyps removed and biopsy came back benign... Get checked!!!!! I'm 56 and this was my first ride.  :smt044 :smt044 :smt044

On behalf of dudes under 40 (Im 39 for 2 more months), I commend you for going through it.  At the same time, Id like to express how f*$%ed up you made it sound, and how little this will help me get checked...  :smt044

Jerry, wishing you the best in the coming weeks/months! 
better than colon cancer. Was actually cool watching the big 50" screen tv of the procedure. The body is a weird place on the inside! Get it done. Get checked. If I can do it, you can do it! (Follow the pre clean out steps to the letter and drink ALL the big bottle of electrolyte.....)
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on August 27, 2020, 06:15:09 AM
Thank you all for the well wishes.  I can't express how much that means to me, especially since I am not able to actually go out and talk to anyone in person about this.  Just a few e-mails.  It would be nice to sit down over coffee or a meal out and just be normal for a while. 

3 weeks is an awful wait, but it takes up to 7 business days just to get the insurance approval for the scans and biopsies, another 5 to schedule them, then another 5 for the pathology report, then my oncologist has to determine how to treat before I'm finally called back in to hear the news.  I'll be lucky if all that happens in just 3 weeks.  Due to CV-19, everything is delayed.  The labs, the testing facilities, etc are all having to distance and after 5 months, it's all horribly back logged.  I fear I'll be a casualty of CV-19 because everything else takes a back seat. 
So far I've had to take 3 CV-19 tests.  They are required before each test and my surgery.  I'll probably have to take another 2 or 3 before I can start treatment as I further test and then go in for the IV cocktail of chem drugs.  I really hate that test!  I'm surprised they do it to you when you are sitting behind the wheel of a car.  Ha!  Each time I'm given the CV-19 test, I have to self quarantine for 3 days prior to what ever test or procedure I'm taking.  If my wife leaves the house during those 3 days, I have to stay 6' away from her even. 

Regarding my diagnosis of lymphoma, no one seems to have a clue what causes it.  Maybe Round-Up according to lawyer ads on the TV, but I am not going down that rabbit hole.  Other than some anxiety, I feel fine.  Staying busy working around the house.  Living out in the woods on acreage, there's always something I can do.   Today I go back to the surgeon for my stitches to be removed. Oh boy! 

Everyone take care of themselves.  Don't do anything to get injured or sick.  At least until some sort of normalcy returns and everything isn't so CV-19 centric.  Check yourself for lumps, especially the lymph node areas.  If you feel anything different, an ache or lump or something, do not wait.  See your doctor and get checked. 
Cheers!! 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: 123engineering on August 27, 2020, 06:23:27 AM
Thank you all for the well wishes.  I can't express how much that means to me, especially since I am not able to actually go out and talk to anyone in person about this.  Just a few e-mails.  It would be nice to sit down over coffee or a meal out and just be normal for a while. 

3 weeks is an awful wait, but it takes up to 7 business days just to get the insurance approval for the scans and biopsies, another 5 to schedule them, then another 5 for the pathology report, then my oncologist has to determine how to treat before I'm finally called back in to hear the news.  I'll be lucky if all that happens in just 3 weeks.  Due to CV-19, everything is delayed.  The labs, the testing facilities, etc are all having to distance and after 5 months, it's all horribly back logged.  I fear I'll be a casualty of CV-19 because everything else takes a back seat. 
So far I've had to take 3 CV-19 tests.  They are required before each test and my surgery.  I'll probably have to take another 2 or 3 before I can start treatment as I further test and then go in for the IV cocktail of chem drugs.  I really hate that test!  I'm surprised they do it to you when you are sitting behind the wheel of a car.  Ha!  Each time I'm given the CV-19 test, I have to self quarantine for 3 days prior to what ever test or procedure I'm taking.  If my wife leaves the house during those 3 days, I have to stay 6' away from her even. 

Regarding my diagnosis of lymphoma, no one seems to have a clue what causes it.  Maybe Round-Up according to lawyer ads on the TV, but I am not going down that rabbit hole.  Other than some anxiety, I feel fine.  Staying busy working around the house.  Living out in the woods on acreage, there's always something I can do.   Today I go back to the surgeon for my stitches to be removed. Oh boy! 

Everyone take care of themselves.  Don't do anything to get injured or sick.  At least until some sort of normalcy returns and everything isn't so CV-19 centric.  Check yourself for lumps, especially the lymph node areas.  If you feel anything different, an ache or lump or something, do not wait.  See your doctor and get checked. 
Cheers!!

Hi Jerry

Wish for your fast and full recovery.  We need to hit the slope together after CV-19.  Hope ski resorts will be open this season.

Paul
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on August 27, 2020, 06:46:30 AM
Hi Jerry
Wish for your fast and full recovery.  We need to hit the slope together after CV-19.  Hope ski resorts will be open this season.
Paul
Hey Paul!  Thanks for the well wishes.  I bought my season pass for Sierra At Tahoe already for the early discount.  I decided to treat myself and also got the fast pass and the preferred parking.  I'm hoping I'll be through any treatment by Christmas and that I won't be feeling too puny to ski.  It was a real bummer when season was cut short last year. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: 123engineering on August 27, 2020, 06:55:34 AM
Hi Jerry
Wish for your fast and full recovery.  We need to hit the slope together after CV-19.  Hope ski resorts will be open this season.
Paul
Hey Paul!  Thanks for the well wishes.  I bought my season pass for Sierra At Tahoe already for the early discount.  I decided to treat myself and also got the fast pass and the preferred parking.  I'm hoping I'll be through any treatment by Christmas and that I won't be feeling too puny to ski.  It was a real bummer when season was cut short last year.

I ordered Epic Military Pass but love to go back to Sierra At Tahoe for a day trip during powder day.  I have not been to Sierra since I stop teaching around 7-8 years ago.

Paul
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: DarthBaiter on September 13, 2020, 05:44:46 PM
Thx for the reminder Joel!

You guys should all try face potion.  Its the shiznick

Thanks for this.  Can this be found locally?

OP.  Best of luck!   I wish you the absolute best..
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Herb Superb on September 13, 2020, 10:59:40 PM
Thx for the reminder Joel!

You guys should all try face potion.  Its the shiznick

Thanks for this.  Can this be found locally?

OP.  Best of luck!   I wish you the absolute best..

OP passed away a few years ago
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on September 24, 2020, 11:04:53 PM
Just an update;  I've been tested six ways to Sunday and still waiting on bone marrow genetic tests.  But enough testing to show I have Small B-Cell Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma.  There are many sub types of this kind of Lymphoma so testing continues.  It is narrowed down enough that chemo will start on October 1st and 2nd.  Takes two days to administer the drugs; 5 1/2 hours first day, 2 hours second day.  Hopefully I tolerate them well so the next month course will not take so long, only 3 and 1 hours for days 1 and 2.  I am scheduled for 6 courses spread 28 days apart.  Roughly 6 months of treatment. 
Along with testing, I've been getting vaccines for Shingles, Flu, Pneumonia (2 types), even tetanus because my immune system will be greatly weakened with chemo. 
Been getting stuff done around the house as well so I won't have too many things built up by the time I feel good enough again to tackle them.  Hard to do with all that heat and smoke!!  But tomorrow I think I'll take a little motorcycle ride.  Woop!! 
Wish me luck! 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: fishbushing on September 24, 2020, 11:17:22 PM
Good Luck Jerry  :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Papa Al on September 24, 2020, 11:17:39 PM
Good luck Jerry. Hope it works out well for you.

Sending you good thoughts and prayers,
Al
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on September 25, 2020, 09:15:57 AM
Sending good vibes to you Jerry...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: yakyakyak on September 25, 2020, 10:39:15 AM


Wishing you the strength to see this through and a speedy recovery! 


Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: vwool on September 25, 2020, 03:11:27 PM
Sending good thoughts your way Jerry.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Pacific on September 26, 2020, 08:14:17 AM
I give you good thoughts and  recommend you stock up on cannabis gummies thc and cbd thc helps with pain and  your appetite and cbd supposedly  fighs cancer cells.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on September 26, 2020, 08:40:42 AM
I give you good thoughts and  recommend you stock up on cannabis gummies thc and cbd thc helps with pain and  your appetite and cbd supposedly  fighs cancer cells.
Thanks for the suggestions.  I've been wondering about cannabis and cancer.
I know less than nothing about such products other than my brother-in-law had some sort of vape pen device when he had his cancer.  Maybe it wasn't vape pen, but it was some sort of tiny pipe that had an igniter built into it.  He could step outside, take a couple hits and come back in with zero odor. 

Where can I knowledge-up on this and sources?  I'm not going into some damn hippy shop where stoners go.  I got no problem with anyone who does.  Anyone who knows me, knows this is just not me or my style.  Too many years of reefer madness training when I went to school in the 60's conditioned me to never try any recreational drugs.  Ha!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: snapperhead on September 26, 2020, 09:28:48 AM
All cannabis shops have stoners in them. There are many good knowledgeable stoners!!!  :smt004 I am using the name stoner loosely, just referring to a person who smokes/eats cannabis products. These are 100% the people that you want to explain cannabis to you, because they use it daily. Medical doctors, unless they are also a stoner, are not the ones to give advice on what types and dosages of cannabis to take.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: tedski on September 26, 2020, 09:48:13 AM
I give you good thoughts and  recommend you stock up on cannabis gummies thc and cbd thc helps with pain and  your appetite and cbd supposedly  fighs cancer cells.
Where can I knowledge-up on this and sources?  I'm not going into some damn hippy shop where stoners go.  I got no problem with anyone who does.  Anyone who knows me, knows this is just not me or my style.  Too many years of reefer madness training when I went to school in the 60's conditioned me to never try any recreational drugs.  Ha!

I get the stigma that's been indoctrinated into you over the decades.  It's unfortunate, but it's real and you have plenty on your plate right now to not have to make a bunch of mental effort to break that stigma.  There are plenty of online resources where you can read up on some options for your personal treatment.  https://www.leafly.com/news/health/how-to-use-medical-marijuana-for-cancer would be a good place to start.  From there, check out delivery sites like Eaze.  Also, your local dispensary probably does curbside pickup during COVID times.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on September 26, 2020, 11:08:13 AM
I give you good thoughts and  recommend you stock up on cannabis gummies thc and cbd thc helps with pain and  your appetite and cbd supposedly  fighs cancer cells.
Where can I knowledge-up on this and sources?  I'm not going into some damn hippy shop where stoners go.  I got no problem with anyone who does.  Anyone who knows me, knows this is just not me or my style.  Too many years of reefer madness training when I went to school in the 60's conditioned me to never try any recreational drugs.  Ha!

I get the stigma that's been indoctrinated into you over the decades.  It's unfortunate, but it's real and you have plenty on your plate right now to not have to make a bunch of mental effort to break that stigma.  There are plenty of online resources where you can read up on some options for your personal treatment.  https://www.leafly.com/news/health/how-to-use-medical-marijuana-for-cancer would be a good place to start.  From there, check out delivery sites like Eaze.  Also, your local dispensary probably does curbside pickup during COVID times.

Thanks for the info!  I knew asking a doctor would not be much use.  I also know there's got to be something behind the cannabis connection to cancer for therapeutics.  Just not sure where to begin.  Your link I'm sure will be a gateway to investigation.  I would also appreciate anyone who has experience or family with experience how cannabis helped them during their chemo.  I don't know I'll need it, but I also don't want to wait to find out and needlessly endure symptoms. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: tedski on September 26, 2020, 12:13:49 PM
My father was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and used cannabis during all of his rounds of chemo.  This is before medical cannabis was a thing in NJ where he lived.  His oncologist said it was the cannabis that was responsible for his body weight staying stable and him being less tired and worn out throughout his chemo rounds.  He told him that he couldn't recommend to use cannabis under the law, but he said, "don't do anything differently, whatever you're doing at home is working."  His original prognosis was a few months and he wound up sticking around for 2.5 years instead.  Obviously, nobody can say with authority how much the cannabis played a factor, but I like to think it made those 2.5 years a lot higher quality of life than if he hadn't.  He was still getting out fishing for stripers and fluke on friends boats during chemo, so I don't think he could have asked for a better last chapter.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on September 26, 2020, 03:48:29 PM
My father was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer and used cannabis during all of his rounds of chemo.  This is before medical cannabis was a thing in NJ where he lived.  His oncologist said it was the cannabis that was responsible for his body weight staying stable and him being less tired and worn out throughout his chemo rounds.  He told him that he couldn't recommend to use cannabis under the law, but he said, "don't do anything differently, whatever you're doing at home is working."  His original prognosis was a few months and he wound up sticking around for 2.5 years instead.  Obviously, nobody can say with authority how much the cannabis played a factor, but I like to think it made those 2.5 years a lot higher quality of life than if he hadn't.  He was still getting out fishing for stripers and fluke on friends boats during chemo, so I don't think he could have asked for a better last chapter.

That was very inspiring tedski.  Thanks for sharing that. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: charles on September 26, 2020, 05:13:24 PM
Whatever you take as a supplement to chemo make sure you talk to the oncologist about the substance. Chemo's may or may not work well with alternative therapies. I Experienced the up and downs of my wife for six years of different chemo combos for ovarian cancer. Her oncologist told her pot and pot extracts were fine but he wanted to know what alternative oral substances she was taking to make sure they didn't interfere with the chemos. Really delicate chemical balances have to be right for chemo to work. Treatment did give her a few extra years of life, some of it good. The pot helped ease some of the pain but wasn't curative. Wish you well Jerry.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: tedski on September 26, 2020, 06:34:47 PM
Whatever you take as a supplement to chemo make sure you talk to the oncologist about the substance. Chemo's may or may not work well with alternative therapies. I Experienced the up and downs of my wife for six years of different chemo combos for ovarian cancer. Her oncologist told her pot and pot extracts were fine but he wanted to know what alternative oral substances she was taking to make sure they didn't interfere with the chemos. Really delicate chemical balances have to be right for chemo to work. Treatment did give her a few extra years of life, some of it good. The pot helped ease some of the pain but wasn't curative. Wish you well Jerry.

+1 to this for sure.  Times have changed a lot and more and more doctors are at least more informed about THC and CBD and their interactions with other drugs/treatment plans.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on February 01, 2021, 01:27:28 PM
Q for those whove had skin cancer dx.

What brought you in to get checked?  I had a full body derm scan two years ago, and got a clean bill.  I even asked about some spots on my face that concerned me, and they said nothing to fear at that time.

but those spots are enlarged ...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: WillFo on February 01, 2021, 02:18:50 PM
Q for those whove had skin cancer dx.

What brought you in to get checked?  I had a full body derm scan two years ago, and got a clean bill.  I even asked about some spots on my face that concerned me, and they said nothing to fear at that time.

but those spots are enlarged ...

Little pink lump on my nose that didn't go away, raised pink area on my temple, something that looked like a pink, shiny mole on my shoulder - all basal cell carcinoma. I've looked at a lot of pictures of melanoma, because I want to be sure to recognize it if I ever see it.

Better to get those spots checked again just in case.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: oldfart on February 01, 2021, 02:26:39 PM
There are a few common types of skin cancer so the answers may differ
Around 25 years ago I had a brown spot (like a freckle) on my belly.  Over a period of a month or so it formed a crusty top and grew slightly larger.  I went to the doc and he said it was nothing to worry about.  I said I was concerned and wanted it removed.  Turns out it was a melanoma, luckily it was in situ and was completely removed.
Five years ago my wife noticed a mole on my back that had uneven boarders, otherwise it just like another mole a few inches away.  I procrastinated going to the doc for a couple of months until my wife insisted.  That melanoma had a little more actively dividing cells and the dermatologist said I was lucky I came in when I did.  Still had a lymph node removed and checked to make sure.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on February 01, 2021, 09:05:30 PM
I've had 3 moles shaved off and tested for cancer that were malignant several years ago.  Those three were surgically removed with all margins clear. Since then, I go for a full body exam by a dermatologist every year.  Luckily my insurance covers this.  So far so good along those lines.  My recommendation is that if any of yours has been diagnosed as cancer then get an annual exam if your doc says you should.  Do not be afraid of a diagnosis.  Ignoring a problem will not make it go away. 

As an update to my cancer, I am on month 5 of 6 months, having my last chemo treatments on January 26th and 27th.  Each month I get my infusions are a bit rougher than the last.  Seems 4 weeks allows me to recover some, but not all the way, so I am garlanding downward on a trend.  Frist few months were not too bad, but now I'm out of reserves.  This is wiping me out.  The infusions consist of premeds on both days that include prednisone (a glucocordicosteroid premed each time I go).  I am given Retuximab on day one with a premed of Benadryl.  Benadryl is very harsh on my veins so the steroid keeps the swelling and inflamation down for about 48 hours.  But still it HURTS going in.  I start with an IV of saline, then a hypo of about 50ml of Benadryl administered over about 15 minutes. Some Tylenol precedes this, but doesn't take much of the edge off.  About half way through the Benadryl, I get a head rush side effect.  Feels like I'm weightless and my mind stays lucid but my speech slows down.  I can be talking to myself, while talking to the nurse, as if I were observing my talk to the nurse.  I may be telling the nurse about something I did last week but thinking to myself something totally different, like maybe a book I'm reading.  A real split personality sort of thing going on simultaneously.   This lasts about an hour.  After the premeds, I get 375ml per m2 (375 milliliters per cubic meter of body mass)  I am about 2 cubic meters of body mass, so 750ml of Retuximab.  This takes about 5 hours to administer because it's also pretty harsh on my body and the Benedryl helps with the reaction I have to it.  After the retuximab, (which is a immunotherapy, comes the chemo drug Bendamustine.  This is pretty small, about 100ml and takes about 10 minutes to drip into me.  When they switch up to that bag, I know to text my wife to come get me soon. 
First 48 hours I am very lucid, happy and can't sleep.  This is the prednisone side effects.  I also start bloating and get constipation.  About 2 days after my infusion, It looks like I swallowed a basketball.  Around this time the steroid wears off and I get nausea.  I have a couple meds for that.  Doesn't cure the nausea, but keeps me from throwing up for the most part.  Compazine is one of the anti nausea meds. anti-psychotic used to treat psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. Compazine is also used to treat anxiety, and to control severe nausea and vomiting.  I can't say it does anything but keeps me from puking though.  Not like the head rush Benedryl gives me anyways.  So day 4 through 7 I'm very tired from coming down from the prednisone and the nausea.  I sleep a lot.  Food starts to taste off.  The main thing I notice is that I loose the taste for sweets.  This kills my appetite and I don't want to eat anything.  Water even has a funny flavor.  By the 2nd week, the chemo has really gotten busy wiping out the B cells in my lymph system and starting in on the stem cells in my bone marrow that T cells are developed from.  After 5 months, my body is pretty much rid of B cells, most T cells and the stem cells that make those two. 
As a side note, the COVID vaccine works through RNA on the body's B cells, but since I don't have any and their source has dried up, the vaccine would have no effect on me.  My oncologist says not to get a vaccine shot.  Not that the vaccine would hurt me, but no studies have been done on the side effects or how it affects the treatment I'm undergoing.  So I need to be extra careful now and not get sick.  If I get a fever of 100.4, I need to go to an ER and give them a wallet card I've been issued that describes my cancer and treatment and how to proceed.  Pretty sure if I get the COVID, I'm a gonner. 
By the end of week two, I've got several side effects besides loss of the taste for sweet.  I have severe heartburn/acid reflux.  I have bad hiccups.  I have mouth sores.  There's a rash all over my body and my skin gets really dry.  My scalp itches like crazy as well as my beard.  I scratch myself raw if I'm not careful.  A soap with coconut oil helps a lot.  Week three I start recovering.  I can do more than just walk to the mail box and get mail and the newspaper without getting winded.  I can do yard work at a leisurely pace, even go for short walks.  Week 4 I feel much better.  Working in the garage all day, tired but a good kind of tired, like I'm recovering.  Walks are longer, about 2 miles a day.  Even fired up the chainsaw to cut up some downed oaks from the wind storm.  By now, all bloat is gone, I can button my pants again and enjoy food, including sweets.  My sore throat is gone as well as most all other symptoms.  One side effect hasn't left, that's a ringing in my ears.  It's quite distracting.  My wife says I turn volume up on the TV way too loud now to compensate the ringing. 
Doc says I have to wait at least 6 months after my last chemo before I can take the COVID vaccine.  He said he'd prefer I wait 9 months to a year when my blood tests say my immune system is back to normal. 
BTW, blood tests are done 2 days prior to each chemo to be sure I've recovered enough to proceed with the next course.  They show my liver and my heart muscle are sustaining some damage from the treatments.  Chemo is basically a way to poison all fast growing cells in your body after all, so this is something of a trade-off.  The doc says it will reduce my life probably about 5 years less than if I never got cancer due to the damage caused by the drugs.  Only time will tell, these sorts of things are based on actuarial tables, so who knows, I may be at the good end of that curve. 
In any case, one more month of treatments, then 2 weeks of difficult recovery.  After the two weeks comes a PET scan to see if the cancer is undetectable.  It's not curable, but doc figures at least 2 years before it's detected again and who knows how long after that I'll have to start all over again with treating this.  I'm hoping for 5 years between the end of this round and the next.  By that time, I'll probably opt for another round.  After that, unless there's advancement with treatments, probably not.  I'd be 76 and doc says I may live 2 to 5 years without any treatment.  Puts me at around 80.  Gotta consider the chemo has taken about 5 years off my life expectancy due to it's damage to my organs. By that time, I'm pretty sure I would not be willing to go through what I'm going through now at 65.  Quality of life and all that. 
I appreciate a place I can put down my thoughts and experience.  It's not easy for my wife to deal with or any of my family.  I'm fine with this, they are not.  I'm blessed that this cancer isn't one that takes one fast.  I have many good years ahead and plenty of time for doing stuff. 

As a reminder, if you notice anything with your body that is different than it was, get it checked.  It can mean the difference between having lots of years vs no time left.  Early treatment is always key. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingAddict on February 01, 2021, 09:23:34 PM
Wow Jerry, thanks for narrative. You did an excellent job describing what you are going through. Its quite an eye openner. I hope you get healthy soon and pray for your full recovery.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Ski Pro 3 -- Jerry on February 01, 2021, 09:43:09 PM
Thanks!  Yea, I got this.  My motivation to post is so that folks don't delay getting themselves checked.  i thought I had another hernia.  The pain was about the same.  Luckily I didn't wait too long.  Not sure how this would be different in a non-COVID alternative universe though.  Maybe not at all!  While I can't go to kayak tournaments, neither can anyone else.  Hard to feel sorry for missing out on things when the rest of the country is as well.  I suppose I'm missing out more because of my age, but realistically, I can honestly say my life isn't any worse than if I had a chronic bad cold and flu this winter.  Sick is sick.  Psyching myself out over cancer is just a mind game; I'll treat it as just another fact to deal with in life, just as any other fact that comes along. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: tedski on February 02, 2021, 07:56:09 AM
Thanks for sharing and I'm glad you have this place to put your thoughts out there.  I also appreciate your efforts in making sure folks get checked early and often if they feel something is different. 

I appreciate a place I can put down my thoughts and experience.  It's not easy for my wife to deal with or any of my family.  I'm fine with this, they are not.

This one resonated with me.  My father was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer.  I remember him expressing similar feelings... telling us all that he's fine with it and so we should be, too.  I never could get to the point of being "fine with it."  He was much younger (passed at 54), so it felt like he was being "stolen" from us way too early, I think.  Either way, it's one of two regrets I have when I think back to his final months.  First, I should have talked with him more about that and heard him out about being "fine with it" and maybe I would have a different perspective.  Maybe I wish he would have tried to have a stronger talk with me about it.  Second, I pushed him to continue another round of treatment that he didn't want to.  He had much of the same experience as you with his chemo and he had the same quality of life balancing thoughts about further treatment.  Both regrets boil down to one simple thing: communication.  My father and I were as close as could be.  We were friends more than we were father and son.  However, all of that seemed to go out the window when he got cancer due to fear of loss.  We could have been on the same page about future treatment plans and "being fine with it" if we'd talked more thoroughly about it.

Sorry to be the downer on this one... just wanted to add that if someone you love got checked and received that scary diagnosis... it's scary for everyone in different ways.  Talk to each other.  Discuss the scary parts.  Discuss the tough decisions.  Get on the same page.  Our time is too short to carry regrets after your loved ones pass on.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: yakyakyak on February 02, 2021, 09:02:29 AM


Thank you for sharing with us, Jerry!  I especially appreciate the education as always.  I hope you recover as well as you can be.  Lots of things waiting for your enjoyment, fishing is the least of them (or maybe the most?), so please take your time to recover.  Sending my prayers and thoughts for your well being.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on February 02, 2021, 10:14:09 AM
Thanks!  Yea, I got this. 

  :beer3  thx for sharing, and do keep up with the insights! great to have your POV
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: FishingAddict on February 11, 2021, 06:29:19 PM
I had my yearly physical last week. Thank goodness everything is OK. I had a tetanus and shingles shot that were both due. Stay healthy guys.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: LilRiverMan on February 12, 2021, 09:16:28 AM
Hey Jerry

Missed your thread. Sounds like you've been through heck and back. I'm confident you will be back skiing Sierra next season. Probably leaving me in your powder/dust !!! Keep punching back my friend.
Warmest wishes
Kirk
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eric B on September 14, 2021, 02:03:09 PM
Just wanted to keep this thread going, and hopefully remind us to check in with each other.  Part of taking care of ourselves is taking care of each other.

It’s super easy to justify and overlook red flags while masked and distanced.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on June 15, 2022, 04:58:30 PM
Bump, as we all need this reminder at times.  Love for all my brothers, be sure you take care of yourself and see your doctor like Joel said! I finally started taking my health seriously, and thank goodness I didn't wait too long.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on June 16, 2022, 04:43:35 PM
I've had quite a few health issues over the past couple of years...

My liver functions and other bloodwork were in pretty bad shape...after going totally sober for 2.5+ years all that is better and I have also dropped a fair amount of excess beer belly.

Then I started having some pain in my right hand and noticed an odd bump and a lack of strength...turns out I have a benign tumor (called an osteochondroma) there that is pressing on some nerves and stuff and causing pain and affecting my strength...no more strong handshakes for now...hand specialist says it can be removed but will be out of the water for a few weeks so will wait until winter time  :smt002.

https://www.bonetumor.org/tumors-cartilage/osteochondroma

Then I had a few disturbing episodes of migraines with visual symptoms called scintillating scotoma....felt like I was having a flashback from the party daze, then followed by a vicious headache....no fun.

https://www.healthline.com/health/scintillating-scotoma

Doc did a CT scan and didn't see any weirdness...hasn't come back in a few months so hopefully just isolated occurrences caused by work stress....

Then a few weeks ago I started having really bad ringing in left ear...I've been diving a bunch (cuz its that time of year) so thought maybe an infection even though ears equalizing fine...audiologist yesterday said no sign of infection or trauma but in addition to the tinnitus I have moderate to mild hearing loss in that ear...they gave me a course of prednisone cuz I guess that can help with sudden onset deafness, and I will be seeing ENT on Tuesday.

https://www.webmd.com/connect-to-care/hearing-loss/sudden-hearing-loss-recovery

Maybe all these things are just part of me getting past 45...kind of a PITA but I guess better than the alternative, and glad I have been seeing doc when these things come up....

Here's some pics of the scotoma stuff and of a few 2022 fish for fun.

Hope you are all doing well and staying healthy and taking care of yourselves.

 :smt008

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: 4est on June 16, 2022, 08:23:08 PM
Hey Jim,
When I was about 25 I failed a hearing test at the lumber mill.
They set me up with a doc and after looking in my ears asked me if I was a diver. With amazement I said how do you know.
He said I had surfer’s ear From being in the cold water all the time.
It was a condition known as Exostosis .
He said if it gets too bad they can drill the bones that are growing together.

Good life and stay safe
-4est
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on June 17, 2022, 08:59:54 AM
Thanks 4est!

I asked audiologist about surfers ear, but she said she didn't see any signs of it...was kinda hoping that was it cuz would make sense with how much time I spend underwater....

Will ask ENT again on Tuesday...

If surfers ear, my medical group has a doc that is a specialist so would be in good hands:

https://www.sutterhealth.org/health/ear-nose-throat/surfers-ear

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bushy on June 17, 2022, 11:08:27 AM
Hetzler is not just the BEST, he is the guy who invented the latest and most effective surgical  technique for the surfer ear surgery.
He's done both my ears, one of them twice.  First surgery was with the old technique, basically using a drill to clear the bony growths  closing ear canal. Next two were his new technique that kind of 'chisels' that bony overgrowth.  Much less invasive and fewer side effects.  If you're surfing or diving in cool water, always wear earplug's (Doc's are the best I think) 

I have suffered from debilitating vertigo in the past, and likely cause is the losss of blood circulation for my inner ear caused by capillaries closing after that first surgery.  If you can getHetzler for that surgery go for it.  Otherwise most of those surgeons use his technique thesedays.  You gotta ask though to make sure .  Good luck with all those pesky symptoms Jim, what a nuisance!

Bushy
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on September 25, 2022, 04:23:56 PM
Another health issue for me… :smt009

Went into afib on Friday while out on the water and it didn’t go away.

Have a family history of afib and have had it myself in the past but not for about 10 years and never this bad..

After 10 hours of it, mom told me to go to er.

Heart rate was all over the place from 159 to 140 and back…

They ended up putting me under and zapping my heart. Worked well, and got discharged Saturday AM.

Official diagnosis was Afib with RVR.

https://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/atrial-fibrillation/afib-rapid-response

Pretty worn out and depressed right now. Will be calling cardiologist in AM to see what next steps are.

On a side note ran into Nathan sharkbait in the ER. Guess he cut his foot on a filet knife on e2g boat…Not sure how but I bet it involved a shirtless handstand  :smt002
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eddie on September 25, 2022, 04:37:59 PM
Thanks for sharing...yikes...glad you're on the mend...praying for ongoing improvement and strength...
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: crash on September 25, 2022, 07:17:29 PM
C'mon sharkbait.  Quit goofing off around knives.

Heal up Jim.  That's rough.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: scottymeboy on September 25, 2022, 07:52:07 PM
Thats scary stuff Jim!
I too had some heart issues, mine a bit different just a fast heart beat.
Cured it with a SVT ablation, meaning they went in thru a vein near the groin  up into the heart  with a catheter, camera and lazer,
Found the electric node  , zapped it with the lazer to shrink it and now my heart beats normal! Trippy huh?
It’s amazing what they can do in the medical field now!
 Hope the fix u up!

Like my Dad used to say “ Getting old ain’t for sissys!”
 Good Luck Big Jim!!!

Scotty

 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bulldog---Alex on September 25, 2022, 08:31:40 PM
You look like you have a few dives left in you.  :smt002

Wishing you well Jim .
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on September 26, 2022, 07:27:55 AM
Haven't read this thread for awhile.   Hope thing's will turn out OK for you Jim.  You're still a young man and a good person so God will look out for you.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: splashdown on September 26, 2022, 07:41:25 AM
wow Jim sorry to hear you got AFIB issues. You're still young. Hope you heal up and life goes on. At my age now almost everything wants to break,, but I keep battling on and staying as healthy as I can.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on September 26, 2022, 08:00:04 AM
Sorry to hear about the heath issues brother.  Hope your feeling better soon Jim!  :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on September 26, 2022, 07:12:56 PM
Thanks guys. I’ll keep you posted with what cardiologist says.

Feeling pretty low still, but hopefully snap out of it soon…ER doc said no caffeine so I’m sure that’s making me feel even more lethargic  :smt002

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: wormguy on September 26, 2022, 11:03:53 PM
Last time I went off caffeine it took about 3 weeks to get over it....lot of sleeping
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: LoletaEric on September 28, 2022, 10:47:31 AM
Sorry to hear about your episode with AFIB, Jim.  I'm sure you're tied into a good health system, but please consider looking up Dr. Roger Winkle in Redwood City.  He took good care of me and has lots of experience.

PS:  I had a wave of relief come over me when you disclosed that you can't do the strong handshakes for a bit!   :smt005
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Califbill on October 03, 2022, 08:50:21 PM
Get well.   Hope they get the Afib under control.  I am a lot more careful these days and limit my stressful actions.   Turning 79, I realize I can not do some of the stuff I used to do.  Sometimes sense comes with age.  And the body getting yer butt.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: & on October 04, 2022, 01:20:00 AM
Dang sorry to hear Jim.  IDK if you still run, but I always think of you as a marathon guy, recalling our jogs when you did Team In Training n stuff.  Seems likelihood of afib increases with age, sucks getting older, and hopefully you can get it under control
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on October 05, 2022, 07:15:47 AM
Thanks guys. Feeling 10000% better this week, and have an appointment with Stanford today to see what the plan for the future is.

Dang sorry to hear Jim.  IDK if you still run, but I always think of you as a marathon guy, recalling our jogs when you did Team In Training n stuff.  Seems likelihood of afib increases with age, sucks getting older, and hopefully you can get it under control

I’ve ran a few halfs off the couch last couple years but mostly just swimming, diving, paddling these days…

Got my mercury test results yesterday and stupid high at 66 (0-10 is “normal “). Was only 12 in 2013  :smt009

Maybe related to some of my recent health issues??

Doing a 24 hour urine collection today and then will see if doc wants me to do chelation or what.

Also gonna check wife and daughters since we eat the same fish…

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Weimarian on October 05, 2022, 08:36:48 AM
Dang that is WAY high!!!! Looks like you will be MOOving to land based proteins now :smt044 Hope getting that mercury level down fixes the other problems
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Alan Matsuno on October 05, 2022, 08:56:54 AM
There is or used to be a Doctor on the peninsula who has written about mercury.

There is or was a website: BARF or Coastside who has a couple of members who were diagnosed with high mercury.

The doctors name is Hightower.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: crash on October 05, 2022, 10:18:00 AM
Jim,

Any recent dental work removing or repairing old mercury amalgam fillings?  Mine spiked several years back in the week or so after such dental work.

Hard to believe that is all from consuming fish out of the ocean, even if you ate 10+ servings a week, unless you were eating shark and swordfish on the regular and even then it seems high.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on October 05, 2022, 11:27:47 AM
Jim,

Any recent dental work removing or repairing old mercury amalgam fillings?  Mine spiked several years back in the week or so after such dental work.

Hard to believe that is all from consuming fish out of the ocean, even if you ate 10+ servings a week, unless you were eating shark and swordfish on the regular and even then it seems high.

No recent dental stuff...wife looked in mouth and says I have a few shiny fillings in there so will ask dentist if he thinks that's an issue...

My fish consumption has mostly been a lot of halibut in spring/summer, lings/rockfish in winter (mostly blues/blacks/olives and a red or two), decent amount of salmon, and the occasional WSB and gifted BFT chunk...

No sharks or swordfish or anything...

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on October 15, 2022, 04:27:56 AM
Any of you folks have experience living, paddling etc with a pacemaker? Seems like that is what is being recommended for me…

Backstory:

After recent afib/cardioversion episode I was wearing a heart monitor…was actually feeling better until last Thursday AM when felt myself fainting in shower and yelled to wife to call 911 before totally blacking out.

Woke up a bit later when I heard wife yelling my name…

Fire/EMT/ER said all vitals fine and no sign of heart attack or stroke.

Mailed back in monitor and results showed my heart had a bunch of “pauses” when I blacked out including a really long one of 12.6 seconds….

Guess it was a good thing I was wearing the monitor at the time so it got recorded, and that I wasn’t underwater or behind the wheel….

Will be getting 2nd opinion next Thursday from specialist up at Stanford but trying to get mentally prepared for this being reality…

Thanks in advance.

Sincerely,

Jim

Ps…on a good note. Mercury urine test came back totally negative. Waiting on girls and Ana’s tests, still but seems like my blood test might have been so elevated cuz of spring/summer fish binges, but no chronic mercury accumulated in body (urine is supposedly better indicator of chronic accumulation and shows what is being processed by kidneys).

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: DrDave on October 15, 2022, 06:35:10 AM
Hey Jim, Interesting how social media connects people and although we have never met, I have followed your diving and watched your family grow up over the years via your posts. When people say we are sending our thoughts and prayers your way, please know we really are and am hoping the best for you. I trust you will continue to get excellent medical attention and they find a course of action that will get you back to the things you enjoy the most. Aging is not for ******. Stay strong!
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: crash on October 15, 2022, 07:34:43 AM
That’s all odd and very scary. Be well Jim and I hope you get some answers at Stanford.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on October 15, 2022, 07:41:17 AM
Sending more prayers and good vibes you way Jim.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: fishemotion on October 15, 2022, 10:03:37 AM
Sending more prayers and good vibes you way Jim.
+1

 :triplets:
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: batt on October 15, 2022, 11:30:59 AM
Good luck Jim:   That Mercury level is no joke.  National average for Japan and Norway.   Give all large fish away.  Took me a year to get my level down. 
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: NowhereMan on October 15, 2022, 06:32:22 PM
Any of you folks have experience living, paddling etc with a pacemaker? Seems like that is what is being recommended for me…

I believe that Fuzzy Tom has a pacemaker, but I’m not sure exactly when he got it.

On the bright side, maybe you can dangle a wire from the pacemaker that’ll serve as a built-in shark shield…

Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: AlsHobieOutback on October 18, 2022, 11:05:13 AM
Big hugs for you Big Jim!   :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on November 18, 2022, 01:50:28 PM
Just an update on this.

Stanford docs decided that the bradycardia and pauses were most likely from the med they had me on for the A-Fib.

No pauses or blackouts since stopping the med.

Going the ablation route instead of the pacemaker, and got cleared to drive again.   :smt001

In the past month have done a stress test, multiple echo cardiograms, a cardiac MRI, and have a cardiac CT scan next Wednesday as well.

No signs of any structural issues...heart rate got up to 185 during stress test but I didn't go into Afib.

Have had a few random tachycardia episodes in past few weeks, but have all gone away by themselves.

Ablation scheduled up at Stanford on 11/28.

Haven't dove since the original Afib/Cardioversion episode and am climbing the frikkin walls...saw how much the hospital charged for the cardioversion (over $15k) and decided better to be safe and  take it easy until the ablation.

Hoping I can be back in the water by first week of January when I am meant to be out with the family in Hawaii.  :smt004

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim

ps..attached a pic of the ECG from the hospital from when I was in Afib...  :smt012
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Bulldog---Alex on November 18, 2022, 02:04:42 PM
Good to hear you are doing better Jim.  :smt001

Alex
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eddie on November 18, 2022, 07:07:44 PM
Good news...gonna be in Maui by chance? :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: BigJim on December 20, 2022, 02:49:22 PM
I had a cryoablation for the afib/tachycardia at Stanford on 11/28.

No complications, they put in 5 catheters (2 in each femoral artery and 1 in the jugular) and fed those all the way inside the heart where they found the areas of concerns and ablated them...doc said he was able to trigger the arrythmia easily and that I had AVNRT and didn't even have to go across to left atrium to get the areas where most afib starts....said he is hopeful this will fix the issue and gives me about an 80% chance that won't come back. Also off the blood thinners and don't gotta take any meds at all, which makes me very happy.

https://stanfordhealthcare.org/medical-conditions/blood-heart-circulation/supraventricular-tachycardia/types/atrioventricular-node-reentrant-tachycardia-avnrt.html

Felt like death for first 2 weeks after (feverish, weak, short of breath, chest pain, pulse spikes up to 190 just walking around the house etc) but since then have been feeling stronger.

Got back in water for the first time in 84 days on Saturday and did a yak dive session with my buddy Matt.

Didn't push depths or bottom times...got a nice 21.5 inch cab, found 2 reds and took one and pointed out the other to Matt to take, and at the end of the day Matt finally found the fish we were looking for all day...a big old Ling holed up in only 30 FOW.

When he came up and told me there was a big ling in the hole right next to his gun I had to restrain myself from dropping down and shooting it myself  :smt005

After he breathed up he went down and shot it right in the face...I dropped after to see if needed a second shot but could see the shooting line going right through head and knew it wasn't going anywhere...monster of a fish that was scary big looking inside the hole...back at truck taped out to 39.5 inches and 28 pounds.  :smt007

I was pretty beat the next day, but by Monday was feeling better.

Felt amazing to finally get back in the water and paddle and dive and am looking forward to getting salty with fuzz in Oahu in 2 weeks.  :smt004

 :smt006

Sincerely,

Jim
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Eddie on December 20, 2022, 04:34:54 PM
What a journey!  Power to your full health. :smt006
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: oldfart on December 20, 2022, 06:13:09 PM
Yay! Big Jim is back in the water! Now we have to see when the handshake comes back.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: fishemotion on December 20, 2022, 08:55:00 PM
Good stuff... mighty nice !
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: Sailfish on December 20, 2022, 09:11:52 PM
Must be a thrill to be back at the diving game.  Thanks for the report and pictures Jim.
Title: Re: GET YOURSELF CHECKED!!!
Post by: snapperhead on December 21, 2022, 10:07:34 AM
This is awesome news, stoked for you! Of course the rest of us are happy that will get to see more great pics and videos to watch. :smt044