My Experience

I was diagnosed with multifocal thyroid cancer (papillary carcinoma). After identifying the cancer by a fine needle aspiration, I was told I would need my entire thyroid gland removed. I then looked for a surgeon. The surgeon that I chose recommended a second ultrasound in order to better locate the suspicious nodules.

On the day of the scheduled surgery, my wife and I arrived at the hospital a few hours before the time of the procedure. Although there were relaxing movies in the waiting room, I felt uncomfortable and I decided to run away and to escape from the surgery. I found myself sitting in a luxury restaurant with my wife instead of having the procedure. I now know that I needed time before the operation in order to relax and prepare myself. After 10 days I was ready for the operation again.

After the surgery, I woke up a bit confused. I felt tired and during the first few hours I had no patience for talking with my relatives; I just wanted to sleep. However, after several hours, I was starting to walk around the hospital room and hallway without any serious pain. I did not ask for any pain relief and I could sleep for a few hours at a time.

The following morning I could eat ice cream and yogurt and I was feeling even better. As a precaution, I had to stay at the hospital for another night. I was then released.

Several days after the operation, I was able to move my neck freely although the movement felt a bit strange. I had moderate pain during this time when I carried things or when I walked quickly. But generally, I felt fine.

On the weekend three days after the operation I traveled with my two kids to the nearby zoo.