I was diagnosed two years ago with a 12.5cm pt3a n1 unclassified renal cell carcinoma. I went to Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSKCC), where Dr. Russo performed my surgery and Dr. Motzer is my oncologist. Going into the surgery, I wasn’t really that worried. But when the pathology came back, everything changed.
Seeing the words unclassified RCC terrified me. I couldn’t think about anything other than wondering whether my cancer would come back. The more I searched for information about my diagnosis, the more anxious I got.
Having a rare subtype made me feel even more alone. I suggested to KCCure that they start a group for unclassified patients like me. Today, the group has grown to over 170 members. It’s still a rare form of kidney cancer, but at least others know that they aren’t alone.
The first few months after my diagnosis were really dark. Talking to others really helped pick me up out of the gutter. Sometimes you just need to hear you’re gonna be ok from people that understand.
All of this happened March 2018. Since then I’ve had about 5 or 6 clean scans. I was originally on 3-month surveillance then moved to 6 months. My last scan was November and the next one is in May.
But the most important thing that has happened since my surgery is the birth of my daughter. She is the light of my life and I feel hopeful for the future.
For anyone dealing with a new diagnosis, you’re not alone. I was in your shoes. All of this sucks but just know it does get easier.
