CT Scan Results

Two days after my first C T Scans, I was on my way to see my oncologist. I wanted to have my films for my personal records and I wanted to read the report before I arrived at my appointment. I stopped by the Hospital to pick up my films (the cat scans) and a copy of the report that they had faxed to Dr. “S”. They gave me my films and reports and I walked back to the parking lot. I unlocked my car door, placed the films on  the back seat,  got in and closed the door. Now it was time to open the envelope and read the report.

The first page was for CT SCAN - HEAD/NECK. The report read as follows: There were numerous enlarged lymph nodes consistent with a history of Lymphoma. The Impression was: Extensive Lymphadenopathy within the anterior and posterior triangles consistent with history of lymphoma.  In non-professional (layman) terms , I had enlarged lymph nodes all around my neck.

The second page was for CT THORAX – LUNGS The Impression was: Normal  CT of chest. Heart was within normal limits in size and shape and  lungs were clear. There were a few small lymph nodes within the axilla (under arm)
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The Third page was for CT RETRO CONTRAST ONLY (remember that nasty Barium I had to drink) The Impression was:  liver, spleen and pancreas were normal.

It seemed the lymphoma was only in my neck and maybe a little in my under arms. I knew it was in my neck because the tonsil, I still have my tonsils, under my right chin was very swollen. I was to find out later that my adenoids in my sinuses (part of the lymphatic system) were also swollen, which caused me to snore. My snoring would stop after treatments. Well there I was by myself in my car. I was relieved as I thought, not too bad, I was really a lucky person. It could have been much worse, maybe I could out live the crummy five years they gave me. I started to gain my mental power and will, I knew I would beat those odds.

I laid the report on the passenger’s seat and I started my car and drove to the doctor’s office. His office was fairly close to the hospital so it was a quick trip. I parked, went inside, paid the co-pay (always have to pay the co-pay) and waited in the waiting room. I was less anxious this time, I had read the report  and there was no reason to ask how long I was going to live, I had already heard that answer. So it was time to put my game face on, I was ready to do whatever was necessary. They called my name and I went back to see Dr. “S”.

He came in wearing his nice white jacket. That story next time…...