Well, unbeknownst to me, 3 weeks ago a visit to the gynecologists would become my worst nightmare! Thinking I was simply dealing with a Fibroid or having symptoms of menopause is where my examination suspected a tumor in my right kidney! Then hit with multiple concerns of endometriosis and lesion on my cervix. However, 3 days ago is when I received the devastating news that the 7cm very large tumor in my rt kidney is malignant. The Urologist and Oncologist both have diagnosed me with Stage 2 Cancer (RCC)! Yes, I cried some tears and, in those moments, felt completely hopeless!! I was still in shock because I use to be so good about going to my checkups. I wasn't expecting another blow so soon cause in 2011 and 2023' I caught precancer before it developed to Stage 1 cancer! But in the past few years Health Insurance became an issue of concern and although I was concerned about getting to the doctor to be seen; I could not and life changed while living in the USA.
I'm a mother of a USA Navy Veteran Son. He is my only Son!! So, I began to plan things differently and decided to come give him the moral support he needed while he was still Active Duty in the Navy. At this time, I decided I will get a transfer with a work permit from the job I had at the time, as well as teach English and accompany my son in Asia. Well, during this time I went to Vietnam to check up on my Health because it was much more Affordable. I have sold everything, 3 cars, donated so may household items and furniture to move out of my 3-bedroom home. So, I did just that and start getting the worst news ever!!
My son never really had his dad since he was a baby! I've been his only parent and have worked very hard to show him I'm strong enough for the both of us!! I have tried to keep bad news like this away from my son, but this was so serious, I began to think....if I can't get a hold of this...it would be selfish to not tell him, and he would be in shock! Needless to say, he can't stand the thought of losing me ...his only parent!! He has made me so Proud and Always seems to Raise the Bar!! So, I'm challenging myself to do Everything in My Power to Win This Battle!! I need to be here to see my Son's wedding and future grandchildren!! I'm 49 and turning the Big 50 next month!! I have lived life enough to know that My Life is Worth Fight For!! That part is a testimony because there was a time before my son when I was suicidal! I took 3 bottles of pills when I was 16 and it was then my stomach was pumped but I remember the nurse looked at me and told me I made it just in time because my kidneys would have collapsed had I not made it to the Emergency Department sooner!! So, this is my testimony!! I'm having a moment right now as I'm typing this because I have not thought about this in so long; because God Delivered me from the thoughts of suicide!! So, this is my testimony if this helps someone to never give up...don't throw in the towel; Lord God Help!!
I have worked in healthcare in both administrative and nursing positions. I have volunteered with the hospital simply because I Love Giving a Helping Hand to Others as Well!! My Son is still young, and for him, this would be a tragedy! I only want to make him Proud of me....Do The Work!! My way to express my appreciate for any support is to continue to volunteer and be of service to patient care as well as supporting our Military!
So far, I have a letter of Estimate Cost from the Urologist Stating a Standard Laparoscopy Nephrotomy will cost at least $23,867 USD / 780,000 THB out of pocket here in Thailand. I chose to come to Thailand to support my son while he is here attending college now that he has completed his first contract with the Navy. I dream of the moments he graduates from college!! I just want to do him Proud!! Any Donations are Greatly Appreciated!! And please remember, I will be doing the WORK to Win the Battle Against Kidney Cancer Stage 2!!
