As I write this, I’m “prepping” for a medical procedure that I’ll be enduring tomorrow while you read this. I’m 55, you figure it out.
That’s right, I’m in for a colonoscopy.
I know. It’s not pleasant to talk about.
Neither is this:
Colorectal cancer is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States when men and women are considered separately, and the second leading cause when both sexes are combined. It is expected to cause about 50,830 deaths during 2013.[American Cancer Society]
As with most cancer, early detection is your best bet for a cure.
I know that, because I’m a 23 year survivor (come this December) of testicular cancer.
Because of that history, I’m on a five-year rotation for a colonoscopy rather than the usual ten year.
I was fortunate the last time around and while a polyp was removed, no cancer was found. I’m hoping for the same results.
If I don’t do this, I’ll never know. I’ve lost friends to colon cancer. I’ve had other friends go through long periods of surgery and treatment. This little bit of discomfort is a small price to pay to avoid that.
I’m not having any fun prepping for this test. I am kind of looking forward to the nap tomorrow morning. Let’s hope they give me the good stuff.
But, as unpleasant as this may be, it’s necessary.
If you’re over 50 and you haven’t done this yet, turn off the computer and call your doctor. Scheule and appointment.
I’ll be thinking about you this morning, Michael. I’m sure everything will turn out well.
Ironically, my own colonoscopy is scheduled for a week from tomorrow. I hope this time that they give me enough anesthesia to keep me under for the duration. Last time I awoke in the middle of the procedure to voices discussing the merits of cabernet sauvignon.
[…] a (nearly) 23-year suvivor of testicular cancer this is particularly important to me. As I wrote recently, since age 50 I’ve been on a five-year rotation to get a colonoscopy. I’ll spare you […]
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I’ll be thinking about you this morning, Michael. I’m sure everything will turn out well.
Ironically, my own colonoscopy is scheduled for a week from tomorrow. I hope this time that they give me enough anesthesia to keep me under for the duration. Last time I awoke in the middle of the procedure to voices discussing the merits of cabernet sauvignon.
Author
It’s all good, thanks. I’ll be thinking of you next week.
There are worse discussions than a good cab. 🙂
[…] a (nearly) 23-year suvivor of testicular cancer this is particularly important to me. As I wrote recently, since age 50 I’ve been on a five-year rotation to get a colonoscopy. I’ll spare you […]