I felt fine, but I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer

In 2018, my husband, Rick, was diagnosed with oral cancer, and less than a year later, he was gone. My daughter Julia and I decided to share his story with the hope that some good would come out of it. Today, I’m sharing my own cancer journey to promote a healthy future and remind everyone that by being your own advocate, you can put your health in your own hands.

In April, I went in for my routine physical, feeling great. My “superpower” is I don’t get sick—I haven’t had a cold in over 10 years. When my doctor did her “ears, nose, throat” check, she paused at my throat, feeling a large nodule. I was shocked and told her, “I’m sure it’s nothing.” She followed my comment with, “You need an ultrasound stat.”

The next day I had my ultrasound and that afternoon the doctor called to tell me I had a suspicious nodule. It was pretty large—a bit larger than a quarter—and it was growing inward vs. outward so I couldn’t see it myself. I needed a biopsy. The results took three long weeks to come back as they had to send them out for molecular testing.

The result came back with 76% chance of cancer. Within two weeks I had thyroid surgery and received confirmation that they removed papillary cancer, along with my thyroid. There are several types of thyroid cancer, papillary being the most common.

The good news is it was contained in the nodule, and I needed no further treatment. I’m sharing my story as thyroid cancer tends to be asymptomatic, as was mine. Both my blood work and thyroid levels were perfect. Something as simple as a routine physical can save your life.

My advice? Even if you’re feeling great, keep up with routine physicals and cancer screenings. By doing this, you have a shot at better health outcomes. To pave the way for a healthy future for you and your loved ones check your health today—and encourage your friends and family to do the same.