Two months ago today, I was in surgery. The cancer was coming out.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

How can it be only two months? It seems as though I've been here for a very long time. When I first thought about when the surgery actually happened, I thought it was farther away than two months.

Like last year! Wasn't it last year? Well . . . no. I was confused.

When I actually looked at my calendar, I was astonished. March 16th. I'd gone through a time warp. The landscape had shifted and I was disoriented. Somehow, I'd expected to recover much more quickly than I had. And I realized that this had caused me to be confused. I needed to shift my expectations.

It's been tough. Six hours in surgery! No wonder I often feel fatigued and lost. So I'm coping the best that I can. I've had quite a few surgeries, but none were this big. God forbid that I ever have another one like this.

The horrifying thought is that I could spend the rest of my life recovering. I want my life back and I don't know if that will happen. I'm 82 right now and who knows how much longer I might live? That's a big change for me.

One thing I wanted to mention: I read the pathology report and learned that the cancer was removed in its entirety. There was no lymph node involvement. Clean margins! We'd gotten the success we craved.

If you've read this far, thank you. The support I've gotten from all of you means so much!

[malaise]

1. Great news

I’m so happy for you

[livetohike]

2. Time is moving too fast for all of us Boomers. I'll

turn 74 in July.

Such great news from your pathology report! Enjoy every minute of your life and put that surgery memory, far, far behind you. You’ll feel more like yourself soon.

[Niagara]

3. Dearest CaPeggy

I know it's been a tough path for you.

It's a relief knowing that you are back here on DU. You might spend the rest of your life recovering from this and that's alright. This was a colossal surgery! Take it one day at a time.

Its fantastic to know that the cancer was removed in its entirety!

[Totally Tunsie]

4. Congratulations, CaliforniaPeggy!

We need and want your voice in DU for a long time to come.

[spanone]

5. Wonderful pathology report.

Congratulations

[SheltieLover]

6. You have been through a lot, Peggy!

Ty for sharing the great news!

Continuing to send healing vibes to you.

[Swede]

7. Great news!

&list=RD

[sinkingfeeling]

8. Good to hear they got it all.

[Solly Mack]

9. Excellent news on the cancer being fully removed!

I was still recovering 5 years after my cancer surgery/radiation/chemo. Honestly, it took a decade for some things to seem normal again. Some foods and drinks still taste bad, causing me to avoid them. My body still hasn't gone back to before and never will. I went from no working salivary glands to sporadically working salivary glands over that decade plus, and that's not the improvement you would think.

I still did what I wanted to the best of my abilities, compensating for any changes by resting a little more or learning a new way of performing a task.

I was cancer-free after my surgery. The treatments afterward were SOP for my type of cancer.

One day at a time, Peggy. That's all you have to do. You are recovering. The cancer is gone. You're alive. Now it's one day at a time. Do what you can do and don't berate yourself. Reach beyond your new limitations a little at a time and you'll see progress.

I'm hoping to read your 10 years later post.

[BootinUp]

10. Feel safe, rest and get better.

And follow the doctors orders.

[Nigrum Cattus]

11. Six hours is rough

Can't really ask for a better result,

[3catwoman3]

12. One of the earliest things I remember learning in nursing school...

...was that one loses strength and conditioning at the rate of 3% a day when on bedrest, and regains it at only 1% a day when getting back in shape, so we are behind the power curve right from the get go.

Those walk about at the farmers' markets that you so enjoy will be good for your body and your spirit.

[NNadir]

13. I waa wondering about that, how cleanly the cancer came out...

...but felt it was not my place to ask.

This is very good news indeed.

We congratulate you, your physicians and the support staff.

Above all we congratulate you on being 82 and having had a life well lived.

[bsiebs]

14. Really great news CaliforniaPeggy!

The world is truly a better place with you here…

[HeartsCanHope]

15. I find the hardest part after surgery is to be patient during recovery.

It takes as long as it takes to feel well. I'm so glad they got all the cancer, CaliforniaPeggy.

We want to keep you for a long time! Please be gentle with yourself as you recover and don't

push yourself too hard, just hard enough to get better! Much love to you, dear friend!

[Marthe48]

16. Your new job is recovery

Work on your recovery every day, savor your progress and appreciate your improvement doing something you love, even if you can spend only a few minutes at it.

My friend said that the effects of anesthetics can last up to a year, so be nice to yourself!

Sending healing vibes every day!

[peggysue2]

17. The best news, Peggy . . .

Is that the surgeons removed the tumor entirely with clean margins.

My husband was diagnosed with liver cancer and he, too, had a rough time after surgery. But his pathology report was equally as good--got it all, clean margins. It took him several months to recuperate. He spent 3-weeks in bed getting up only for his physical therapy sessions.

Little by little he regained strength until he could bathe himself (I was his official dryer) and walk short distances. But It was a good 3-4 months before he could drive again. That single, small victory (driving) was huge.

Try not to get too frustrated; it just takes time to completely heal and regain your strength and energy.

You'll get there.

[Dave says]

18. I'm glad to hear they got it all out :)

[LoisB]

19. "the cancer was removed in its entirety" is the absolute BEST news. I think you

are doing phenomenally well in your recovery. Each day you will gain more and more strength. Hugs to you.

[hamsterjill]

20. Give yourself some grace.

If it were anyone else making this post on DU, Peggy, we all know that you'd respond with some kind words and wisdom - of which at least some would include giving time and rest to be able to heal.

So, may I ask that you do the same for yourself? Take it one day at a time and remember to celebrate the improvements, even the small ones that seem insignificant. If there's a day where there is a setback, remember that it is a realistic thing. Go to sleep, and when you wake the next day, see what happens next.

Peace and comfort to you - in every way possible.

[cksmithy]

21. Good news and you are doing great!

My husband, 76 years old, was under for 2 hours. It took a good six months for him to start to really feel like his old self. While the anesthesia leaves your body within a few days, the recovery of your central nervous system can take days, weeks and several months, according to Dr. google. And of course the older we are the longer everything takes. I am so glad you have felt good enough to post your farmer's market pic.

[surfered]

22. Wonderful news. Enjoy living....

[Grim Chieftain]

23. Oh dear Peggy

I am so very happy and grateful for your recovery. You have certainly been through a lot, and I can honestly say your DU family has had you in our thoughts, well wishes, and yes, prayers. You are a treasure.

Please keep fighting the good fight and keep us posted.

[cate94]

24. I'm so glad they got it all!

Recovery takes more time as we get older. Be patient with yourself. Sending healing thoughts and prayers your way and a . Thank you for keeping us posted!

[multigraincracker]

25. You are doing great. Keep it up.

I’m 76 with a pacemaker but no AFib. Have 3 Cardiologist and they all agree on one thing, keep moving. That’s what I do.

[Tommy Carcetti]

26. Continued healing.

Wishing you all the best in your recovery.

My 81 year old mom just celebrated five years of being cancer free.

It's amazing the strides being made.

[Wild blueberry]

27. Every day is a good day

Thank you for your good news. Glad you are here!

[Nevilledog]

28. Be kind to yourself.

Don't let your expectations cloud your accomplishments. You're going through something very traumatic and it's a bumpy path back. Some days suck, but others shine. You're a fighter and much beloved by everyone in your orbit, so know that we're all here for you.

[kentuck]

29. That is really great news, Peggy!

[niyad]

30. My dear Ms Peggy. It is such good news that the surgeon got it all,

that no nodes were involved. We will hold on to that. Now for your recovery not yet being complete. Please do not be so hard on yourself. Your body, your whole psyche, went through a tremendous assault/insult, even more than was anticipated. It takes time to recover., so please, give yourself the grace and patience you share so generously with others. One thing I want to mention. You were under anaesthesia for six hours. That also takes recovery time. The effects can, in some cases, linger for months. One of my friends, a bit older than you, broke her hip. Clean break, easy surgery, nothing unexpected. It took a good two months for the effects to be completely gone.

Just know that your DU family is surrounding you and your family with love, light, healing, strength and stamina. We are here for you and you loved one, always.

[Ninga]

31. Peggy, I so get every word of your OP. I'm with

you sister. I sm 82. In 2020 I was diagnosed and treated for Large B Cell Lymphoma. Chemo etc etc. in 2024 was diagnosis with a different variant of Lymphoma and now taking 2x daily medication plus monthly infusions.
In 2019 I was power walking, cutting the grass, gardening and hosting dinners for dear ones. While I am still living I’m not really living any type of full active life as the fatigue is indescribable. My oncologist is pleased with my progress and I am thankful. But I mourn the loss of a vital active life
Hugs to you dear Peggy.

[LeftInTX]

32. It does seem longer than two months to me.

I'm glad they found no lymph node involvement, but I wish recovery was easier.

On the brighter side, two months is not that long and recovery from major surgery can take months. I had a minor lumbar disc surgery 20 years ago and broke my toe during recovery. It took me about four months.

[lamp_shade]

33. There were lots and lots of prayers going out for you.

[JMCKUSICK]

34. That's wonderful news CP,

I imagine the recovery will be tougher at your age, everything takes longer.

AA has a wonderful paragraph on acceptance, it goes something like this:

If I find some person, place, thing, or situation unacceptable to me, I have a problem. Then to keep paraphrasing, acceptance is the answer to all my problems....

So yes, adjusting expectations will help immensely.

Best success to you Cap!

[Spazito]

35. You are an amazingly strong woman...

and I believe you will recover to fully live your life, treasure each day as a gift.

[people]

36. Happy for you

Your recovery will go on and in time you will feel so very much better and so much more energetic than you do now. You will get back to where you want to be but it will take time.

[IbogaProject]

37. We were on Pins and Needles for those early days

And even during your early days in rehab. So glad you are making such strides and back to your normal life.

[mountain grammy]

38. So happy to see this..

Keep on keeping on Peggy! Those of us who remember life before plastic are fading away.. but not today!!!

[edbermac]

39. Glad to hear you're doing OK.

[angrychair]

40. So happy to hear

You have a good prognosis. Hope to see you around DU for a long time to come 😊

[mwmisses4289]

41. Yeah, recovery after cancer surgery is like that.

Some days you will feel like you can run a marathon, other days you will feel like you can barely get out of bed.
As others have said, be kind and gentle with your self as you heal and recover.
to you and your family.

[hlthe2b]

42. Perfect, California Peggy... stay healthy and positive as always about your health!

[BaronChocula]

43. Smiles

You've come a long way from post-op to now in two months. May two more months put more miles behind you.

[joanbarnes]

44. I typed enough pathology reports to recognize that this is very good news....often with deep emotion for the patient

I pray you will recover and thrive for the rest of the time you have left.

[karin_sj]

45. I'm so happy for you, Peggy!

I speak from experience when I say I know how happy and thankful you feel right now. I recently had my fourth followup CT scan for a malignant kidney tumor (accidentally found) that was removed back two years ago next week. Like you, they got all the cancer, no lymph node involvement and clean margins. I was 71 at the time and it also took quite a while to get back to normal, but I did and actually feel much healthier than I did before the surgery.

I wish for you many many years of the same "uneventful" scan results I had. You're such a positive force here at DU and we're all rooting for you!

[highplainsdem]

46. Peggy, that's fabulous news that they got all the cancer! I am sorry to hear that the recovery has been

slower than you expected, but recovery after major surgery like that takes time, especially as we get older.

I am wondering how much protein you're getting in your diet. High protein diets can help with recovery after surgery, and I've also seen advice to load up on protein for days before surgery - something I'd forgotten about till googling this just now.

I was my mom's caregiver for years, and I had to talk to hospital and nursing home staff about her diet at times, especially if I found out that their idea of a high-protein breakfast was one egg. I'd often get up before dawn to be at the nursing home at their early breakfast time with a large smoothie for Mom, which included a cup of 4% cottage cheese with a cup of whole milk, strawberries, a banana, and a bit of vanilla. Over 3O grams of protein and a lot of potassium to start the day, which can help with energy and healing.

I hadn't known about the importance of high protein breakfasts myself till I was in my 20s and sometimes wonder how I got through school with mornings pretty much lost (and if I didn't have any breakfast at all, for instance before Mass, I'd sometimes black out in church).

Apologies if asking about your diet seems too intrusive.

[bif]

47. Such wonderful news!

[Skittles]

48. awesome, Ms. Pegster

the bit C was a formidable opponent but ultimately no match for you! And you have so much more to do.

[DelMar dem]

49. Congratulations!

You have had the best possible outcome as a result of your difficult surgery.

Two years ago I received the same wonderful news following my surgery. Even though I had read the pathology report on the patient portal, my brilliant thoracic surgeon called me at home, on a Saturday, to give me the good news. Hearing her say the words filled me with joy.

Recovery takes time and patience, but it is all worth the result.

[JustABozoOnThisBus]

50. This si great news! Have the doctors cleared you ...

... to drop the occasional F-bomb in DU?

Then we'll know you're feeling good!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

51. Of course they have!

Or should I say . . . Fuck yes!

[Beartracks]

52. OMG, prayers answered on that pathology report! :D

You do deserve your life back, Peggy, so I'll keep praying.

=================

[spooky3]

53. We are so happy you're with us! Nt

[senseandsensibility]

54. I'm glad the cancer was completely removed

and you are back to posting and photography and other things you enjoy. At the same time, I hear ya when you say you don't want to spend the rest of your life recovering. Life can be scary and challenging, but one thing I know about you, CP, is you're up for it! Stay strong, my friend.

[70sEraVet]

55. Well, Peggy, ... A successful surgery with a long recovery time is SO much better....

than an alternate outcome!
Go easy on yourself. You already are an expert on focusing on the tiny beauties of the world!

[debsy]

56. Wow! There's a lot to unpack in that message.

It’s great to hear the cancer was removed in its entirety! That alone is very encouraging.

IMHO, the more time you spend outdoors, even if it’s just sitting listening to nature, the better you’ll feel. I know you enjoy going to the farmers market and taking beautiful photos to share with us all. I hope that your ability to do that continues to improve and that you feel better in the near future.

[Old Crank]

57. Coming up on a year since my wife's diagnosis.

Surgery in Sept with radiation. Small lump. Nothing like yours. Also 10 year younger.

She is still feeling the effects of the surgery and radiation along with the hormone treatment.
All contribute to loss of bone density and muscle mass. We are hitting the gym now to help with that and it is helping.
You might need to do some resistance training, check with you doctors first.

All teh best.

[Buddyzbuddy]

58. The good news, CP, you're are here now and recovering everyday.

The disorientation is typical for the surgery you had.
My hope for you is everyday is better than the previous day. I know you'll be good because you look for beauty in everything around you and share it with us. We need you to brighten our lives as selfish as that sounds.
Be well.

[KitFox]

59. You are bravely facing rehabilitation with loads of caring energy coming from us every day. Facing the trauma of a

medical situation plops you right into your normal life coming to a screeching halt. It is so strange to witness all around you people getting on with their normal lives. Things really do just fly by when you are in your routine, but the grind of rehab, although welcomed, throws life into slow motion. Hurray for the all clear report and the enormous relief of that news. Thank you for updating us. We love you!🩷

[GoodRaisin]

60. I can relate having been through a long recovery from surgery myself. The anxiety of it all,

I think it’s tougher on us older folks too. Hang in there, the removal of all the cancer is great news.

[malthaussen]

61. Keep on truckin' n/t

[ProfessorGAC]

62. Excellent News

Hope you're back to fit & active ASAP.

[Trueblue Texan]

63. I've had to say this to several friends in recent months.

It seems to be a tough concept for them, so really pay close attention and take these words seriously, please!

Surgery SAPS your energy and healing takes even more energy, and the older we are, the longer the recovery. So if you're only 2 months out from surgery, and still exhausted, I'd say you're right on schedule, especially for the type of surgery you had and especially at 82 years old!

I'm so glad you got such great news--I'm THRILLED for you. I know recovery can be discouraging--it just takes as long as it takes--but if you are up and about and doing at least some of what you used to do, you are probably doing fine. Everyone heals at a different rate, but it sounds like you're doing much better than lots of folks who've been through the same type of challenges you've been through. I look forward to the day when you drop by DU and tell us you don't have time to chat because you're too busy doing what you love. In the meantime, take lots of naps--resting conserves energy that can be used to further healing. Take a deep breath and relax. You're headed the right direction!

Have a fabulous Saturday!

[CaliforniaPeggy]

64. You have nailed my situation perfectly, my dear Trueblue Texan! Thanks so much!

Everything you described is true for me. Certain activities, periods of fatigue and so on -- all are true.

And naps? I am getting ready to take one right now.

[1WorldHope]

65. You are such a lovely human being California Peggy.

But, human after all. Thank you for sharing your inner feelings and being vulnerable with is all. SI am sure you are aware, life goes better when we don't spend too much time in the future.
So, be here now everyday. I am sure you are as kind to yourself as you are to all of us. You know you would tell someone else to rest and be patient with themselves. So, I know you know what to do. The time warp is crazy! I remember thinking it was a tragedy when I found cancer and my doctor told me that one day I would look back and see it as a bump in the road. I was kind of angry when she said it, but, she was right and here I am. I'm wishing you the same healing as I was lucky enough to achieve. 💜

[woodsprite]

66. So glad to hear the pathology report showed they had gotten it all!!!

Five years ago I was in a similar situation. I had been through the surgery, chemo, and rads, but could barely walk due to hip pain, radiation damage, and shortness of breath.

It was 6-8 months before I felt like actually doing any type of program to build my stamina back up and asked my Onco if it was ok for me to start somewhere. At 5 yrs out, I still have days that I can feel the differences in my body caused by the treatment, etc. but the good days where I can totally forget about any limitations greatly outnumber my down days.

I found a rehab center that worked only with chronic conditions or recovering cancer patients. It was free for anyone in our state for the first 38 sessions. After 38 sessions, it was $40 per month. Our local university's PT and Kinesiology grad students do an intake test to set your baseline activity level, then they guide your exercise sessions and test blood pressure, glucose, and heart rate before, during, and after each session. At 60yo I was one of the youngest patients there. I can remember barely doing 7 minutes on the treadmill at 1.2mph on my intake test. By the time I stopped going due to schedule changes and time constraints, I was doing 35-40 min of alternating high (3.4mph)/low intensity (2.2mph) on the treadmill and 25 minutes of weights and resistance training.

Wishing you the very best as you continue in your recovery. Give yourself time and grace and you'll find your way back. I know what you mean about the anesthesia hanging on. It usually doesn't with me but I have been told the more procedures I go through (I have a permanent ureteral stent) and the older I get, that the effects will hang on longer.

[oldsoldierfadingfast]

67. Dearest Calif. Peg ,,,

Do NOT become discouraged! After each of two surgeries past 79 yrs, I lost my short term memory for about 6-8 mos. due to combination of anesthesia and pain meds. Long term remained intact. Took about 2 yrs. to clear up errors that I made during that period of memory loss.
Very good friends helped me clear up the errors and get back on tract. (Note: I lived alone and still do,)
Prior to updating my Last W&T a short time ago, my PCPs (NP and her boss) both gave written statements as to my mental acuity.
Yes, there are words that I mispronounce, some that know well, but can not say as my brain can find the synapse to get them to my tongue. I put things away and don't remember where. These are normal happenings for us. (I laugh at myself a lot - and keep looking til they turn up.)
My Grandmother wrote a poem in her mind at age 98 and dictated it to a visiting niece who wrote it down sent it to all of us living grand-children (was15, now 7). All 7 of us Grandkids, (oldest 91; youngest, 73) inherited Grandmothers sense of of humor and her optimism. As all of our bodies are aging, it is the last two (plus family, friends and Angels) that keep us going.
Hang in there, my friend. We DUers NEED your beautiful posts!

[Jacson6]

68. God Speed Peggy! n/t

[popsdenver]

69. Wonderful

Great to hear CP

[Kali]

70. good pathology news!

I hear you on the recovery. they told me last summer at least 10 days of strength lost for every day in bed. that was about right (I was 2.5 months in hospitals and SNF) but the mental stuff...ugh! still working on the fuzz brain and just passed the one year anniversary of the start of that ordeal.

[Dan]

71. Cancer is so scary! Congratulations on your recovery

and success on your future wellbeing! Be strong on your journey and enjoy the rest of your life.

[MustLoveBeagles]

72. Give yourself time to heal

[summer_in_TX]

73. Hallelujah, dear Peggy!

What good news that they got it all.

Hang in there. Recovery after major surgery takes awhile. And a lot of work too.

[padfun]

74. Good to hear

May the rest of your life be fantastic.

[BeneteauBum]

75. Keep on truckin' mama

Peace ☮️

[canetoad]

76. If asked

I would have said it was a couple of weeks ago. Must pay more attention.

And great news that the cancer is all gone.

[marble falls]

77. Together we are more than the sum of us an idividuals. DU has certainly made a difference in my recoveries.

[FM123]

78. Sending you hugs!

Quite a journey, you have been through a lot. So happy that your pathology report was good! Take extra care of yourself and know that your friends here on DU are thinking of you and rooting for you.

[jfz9580m]

79. I am happy for you Peggy

My mom should still be with us. She should have stayed on metformin though it was not formally an adjunct therapy then and therefore not rubber stamp friendly.