It began in late September with what I thought was a UTI. I went to my primary care physician, who ordered an ultrasound and bloodwork. A CT scan came next, verifying that I had bladder cancer. Within a few days, I had a turbt procedure and was in the hospital for six days. I was told that I had multiple tumors. I requested and received a referral to the University of Florida Urology Center. The doctor I met with was a surgeon, and he advised a total bladder removal. I was not fond of that option at this early onset of diagnosis. I went back to an oncologist, who recommended chemo and radiation. It turned out that I was not a candidate for radiation due to the multiple tumors. So, I started chemotherapy alone. I still may end up having my bladder removed, but that’s a decision for after the chemo.
My situation is further complicated by my age (77). I have rheumatoid arthritis. I only have one kidney, and it is in stage three kidney disease. It will be an uphill battle, and I’m not sure I’m strong enough to handle it. I have some support from my son and his wife, who live on the same property I do, and my ex-husband, who has been caring for me. I hate burdening others, and the cost of all of this is more than I can afford. I have insurance, but there is still a lot of cost involved with co-pays, etc. From how I see things, the future looks foggy, but I won’t give up. I would love to chat with someone who is in a similar situation.