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Peritoneal Cancer: Anyone else?
Cancer | Last Active: 2 days ago | Replies (82)Comment receiving replies
A few days ago, I finally had my chemo port removed, which was part of me for three years after I was diagnosed with peritoneal cancer. It’s been a long journey and my oncologist was reluctant to have it removed for fear of a relapse. But here I am, in remission, benefitting from the treatment of chemo, immunotherapy and surgery. Grateful to hear the birds sing in my garden and savoring my exodus from cancerland.
Replies to "A few days ago, I finally had my chemo port removed, which was part of me..."
Hi Dor, I add my welcome. I noticed that you wanted to post a link to an essay you wrote for StatNews with your post. You will be able to add URLs to your posts in a few days. There is a brief period where new members can't post links. We do this to deter spammers and keep the community safe. Clearly the link you wanted to post is not spam. Please allow me to post it for you.
- Male doctors said my ‘female’ cancer was incurable. Then a woman took command and gave me hope https://www.statnews.com/2018/10/04/peritoneal-cancer-women-men-doctors/
It is a beacon of hope to hear you say that you're "savoring my exodus from cancerland." Many cancer survivors, even when there is no evidence of disease (NED), still don't feel like they can truly exit cancerland. There's the regular checkups and scanxiety, and every medical symptom makes one wonder... What is your tip to others to embrace the exit?
Congratulations @dorcarvajal!!! You have earned your right to savor your exodus. I truly understand what a milestone this is, as I look forward to the day when I can join you. My 3-year mark will be this fall, I am in remission with NED after a similar treatment experience as yours, although for a different cancer, and my doctors are discussing removing my port. Here's to your continued good health 🙂
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Hi @dorcarvajal Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect. Congratulations on your port removal! Wow, this is a moment of celebration for you! Three years is a really long time to have to deal with a port! Yes, it’s convenient for blood work and all the chemo, meds, fluids running through the ‘mixer’…. But I remember how long it took daily to put the waterproof barrier over the top just to take a shower and the inconvenience under clothing!
The biggest triumph is that you no longer need it! I can feel the jubilation in your words! It’s a feeling like no other…that visceral sense of accomplishment when you have faced the most aggressive battle of your life and came out the other side as a victor. Yes! The birds sing louder, you enjoy the buzzing of the bees, you have a sense of calm and patience. Do you also feel a brain shift in that you no longer have a tolerance for negativity and anger? There is a new appreciation for every moment and each day is a gift. Yes, I’ve been there! ☺️
Sharing your story is what Mayo Clinic Connect is all about. We are a community of people who have our own journeys to share. By doing so we help each other by offering encouragement, answering questions and most of all, giving a sense of hope.
May I ask what brought you to Connect?
Again, a heartfelt congratulations! I think all the fireworks for today, being the 4th of July, will be for you. Lori.