Confirmation...

Today, I saw my GI to discuss the results of my last colonoscopy. As I suspected, he has referred me to a colorectal surgeon in Atlanta to have a consultation about surgery. There are still a lot of details to be worked out (timing, type of surgery, etc.), but I know for sure that the surgery WILL happen in the very near future.  Definitely nervous about the surgery and all the medical aspects that go along with it. I'm also apprehensive about how it will effect my work schedule. I hope to miss as little school as possible, but it may be necessary in order to heal properly. I will update again when I have my consultation with the surgeon.

Red Letter Day - June 20, 2012

Today, I got a letter from my GI with the results of my most recent colonoscopy and things are not looking good. According to the results, I have moved from being indefinite for dysplasia to having High Grade Dysplasia in the lining of my colon. This is an indication that lots of changes have begun and is considered a "pre-cancerous" condition. According to some research I've done, HGD, if left alone, WILL turn into cancer. This means that most likely the surgery will be needed in order to prevent colon cancer. Also, the chance that I may already have an invasive colon cancer is 42% according to some studies that I looked at. I guess the odds are technically in my favor (58% of having no cancer), but it is still very scary. I have an appointment with my doctor next week and will update then, but this weekend I am heading to Chicago to visit two great friends for a nice vacation!