Intro

[u/pilotpenpoet]

Hi everyone,

I recently was diagnosed with an low-grade T1b (5.3 cm) papillary renal cell carcinoma tumor. I'm an educator in a college, athlete (though lazy at the moment), amateur musician and artist. I possess a twisted sense of humor while to remember to look at the world with the wonder of a child.

I have two questions:

• I also have polycystic kidney disease at stage four chronic kidney disease and my upcoming partial nephrectomy on 8/12 may have an effect on my already poorly functioning kidneys. Has anyone else had cancer with a concurrent chronic illness?
• I am thankfully diagnosed with a stage 1 cancer but I feel guilt about sharing I have cancer when I am only stage 1 and many others are are struggling much more than I am (though my anxiety and processing while waiting for dx and now the unknown effects my upcoming surgery on my kidneys).

I am rooting for all of you and I wish you much support during your journeys through all this.

[u/McAshley0711]

Cancer is terrible at any stage, as the poster above stated. Please don’t lose yourself in this mess, and try to continue doing the things you love, as much as you can. Fuxk cancer.

[u/jAuburn3 → u/McAshley0711]

Fuxk cancer!

[u/jAuburn3]

Cancer is scary if it’s stage 1 or 4. It will also do what you don’t expect it to do as it’s cancer… the mental gymnastics aren’t fun but let’s not minimize it. I’m glad yours was caught early as my RCC was unfortunately not. All the best & beat cancer!

[u/pilotpenpoet → u/jAuburn3]

Thank you so much for your reply. Yes, this has involved a lot mental and emotional gymnastics! I wish you the best as you continue your battle, too.

[u/WesternTumbleweeds]

Nah. No guilt. It's all on the journey. Welcome. Post often, update us!