From what I've learned in the short time I've even heard of HPV 16 Cancer of the head and neck, this cancer is impacting the lives of many otherwise healthy men and women, particularly 50 years old and up. What's shocking is that the HPV virus could have been contracted when we were in our 20's, specifically from oral sex with someone who has the virus. It is estimated that 80% of the population carries this virus, and for most, it lies dormant. But for 10%, it does trigger into a cancer more often when a person hits 50. That is a big number, and it means anyone can have this and not know it. What's also troubling is that currently there is no early warning test available for oral HPV. And while a Pap Smear for women can detect the virus, men don't have any sort of screening until the cancer has shown itself, like mine.
Things we find out about MANY YEARS later. Tina's Amyloidosis was the same way. She was stationed as a Marine in Pendleton. The government still hasn't recognized the refuse depot for Agent Orange at Pendleton as the source of her "3rd world" disease tho' they have for several others sites. I'm sorry she didn't think about a blog such as yours, Stew. It might very well have alerted others in time. I'm so very claustrophobic I felt suffocated just reading about the "mask" experience....glad the 2nd time was successful. You're in my nightly prayers, Stew. You're not alone. Randy's fiance, Mandy, is having a very difficult time fighting her pancreatic cancer. Auntie JoJo, Ricky's ex, is on radiation regime for breast cancer. Jackie's husband, Brent, is doing his best to fight his diabetes that he has had for many years and doing what you did....self diagnose via the Internet until he gave in and went to a doctor who corrected his diagnosis. Marty's S.O. was just diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and is doing very well on new meds. Tho' my other prayer recipients aren't our blood relatives as you are they each affect our family. So glad you have top notch doctors...truly makes a big difference. Stay positive...that also makes a big difference. Keep the blog going; it could make a big difference in someone's else's life. Love, good thoughts, and lots of prayers for quick successful resolution for this boulder in your path of life. Auntie Ginia.
ReplyDelete