Barnbran's Journey with Papillary Carcinoma, Thyroid Cancer

I was very surprised to learn that I had Papillary Thyroid Cancer after following incidental thyroid nodules for 5 years.

I had a Total Thyroidectomy with central neck dissection.

I had to go on a Low Iodine Diet for a week in preparation for my RAI ( Radioactive Iodine) treatment. Thankfully, I was able to get 2 Thyrogen injections so I did not have to go "HYPO" (hypothyroid). This allowed me to stay on my Synthroid and minimized any potential side effects. After taking a tracer dose of I-123 I had a WBS (whole body scan) followed by my ablation dose of I-131. I then had to remain isolated for 5 days following strict guidelines. Afterwards I had another WBS which showed intense uptake in my thyroid bed only which was great news.

I was shocked to find out that my nodule grew to 1 centimeter after having ultrasound exams for 5 years and that it was malignant!