Disturbing news at the VA. I could use your prayers.

[BrassMagnet]

I have been coughing a lot lately. I just can't stop coughing.
I saw the VA about it and I got some disturbing news. I had a CAT scan Monday and it showed nodules. One on my thyroid is over an inch long (3.7mm) and is displacing my trachea. There are a couple small ones (6mm & 8mm) in my left lung. There is a lesion (2.6 x 3.3mm) in my liver which may just be a fatty infiltration.
My primary care person is very concerned about the thyroid and somewhat concerned about the lung and not concerned at all about the liver at this time.
No diagnosis at this time. I now have lots and lots of appointments at this time.
One is an EGD to scope out my esophagus and see if my acid reflux is causing the coughing. There are also ultrasound and magnetic resonance tests to see the nodules better.
My primary care person tells me she has been denied consistently requests to use non-VA specialists lately. She has requested them, but expects denial and travel to Denver or Salt Lake to see specialists at larger facilities.
Luckily, I can afford to use them at my expense if I need to or if I desire a second opinion.
I'm not much for praying, but I could use your prayers.

BrassMagnet


4/18/18 update:

We can lay this to rest. Follow up scans show no growth in any of the nodules since 2015. This confirms the diagnosis of all are benign!
Woo Hoo!

[kbstenberg]

My prayers will be sent to have our Lord help you through the tough times ahead.
Please keep us updated. Kevin

[MBTcustom]

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Ill say a prayer for you sir, and that is something I believe in and practice regularly.

[castalott]

Sincere Prayers for Good Health, Hope, Healing, Strength, Courage ,Faith, and Mercy.

Dale

[Fishman]

Prayers offered.

[44man]

You darn sure have mine too. Many of them each day, get well.

[Sweetpea]

Sent one up for you, Ron.

[osteodoc08]

Prayers sent.

[bruce drake]

Prayers offered and for any other veterans using VA healthcare, expect to not get outside references approved despite their recent press releases of being able to use outside agencies. They've expended their allocated funds so now are pulling the referrals back into the VA systems and all of their resulting delays.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/federal-eye/wp/2015/06/02/va-acknowledges-it-has-no-contracts-in-place-for-some-outside-medical-care-for-veterans/

Bruce

[jcren]

Prayers for good health and thank you for your service to our country.

[Bzcraig]

Will certainly pray for you Ron and thanks for putting this out and giving us an opportunity to pray for you.

[bangerjim]

Prayer works. But remember......God works thru physicians and medical science, too!

Hope your results are positive for you and yours.

banger

[OldFogey]

You are in my prayers. "I'm not much for praying" We all pray much more than we realize. Every time we think, "Help me get through this, etc," we are praying.

It seems a shame to me that we, as a country, do not take proper care of those who have served to make our freedoms secure. We should have a "whatever it takes" attitude toward our veterans.

Rick

[fast ronnie]

Prayers for you.

[jmort]

Praying for a complete recovery.

[popper]

Prayers for you, I agree with the PC doc, thyroid problem needs to be fixed.

[nagantguy]

A prayer sent for you..... stay strong

[LuckyDog]

I'll have my wife pray for you.

She seems to have some sort of IN with saints. (Maybe because she had spent time trying to become a nun?)

Oh, let me know if you want that. Cause I have found, that if she prays for it - it happens. So be sure you know what you're asking for.

[Wayne Smith]

Ron, I'll be praying for you. For the MD's too, and the VA system that needs a lot of work.

[Artful]

Prayers for you and your family for the best possible outcome.
Hang tough brother.

[richhodg66]

Prayers sent. Get through this, Ron, we need you around here.

[square butte]

You will have my continuing prayer Ron - Hang in there. Take things one piece at a time.

[dagger dog]

Stay positive in your thoughts and prayers.

Many others are by your side during your tribulations.

[huntersdog]

Prayer sent. May the good Lord guide you and a speedy recovery.

[fivegunner]

Ron, like all the other posters; you will be in my prayers. keep us posted.

[brstevns]

I will be praying for you. Know that you are Loved by all us members.

[s mac]

I will be praying for you. Know that you are Loved by all us members.

Amen to this.

[lightman]

You have them, my Friend. Hang in there!

[RKJ]

Brass, you are in my thoughts.

[Menner]

Ron
You are in my prayers
Tony

[Mod42]

"The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much."
Ill say a prayer for you sir, and that is something I believe in and practice regularly.


These are the words of a very good man.

Prayer does work, and miracles happen every day.
I will pray for you.

[MrWolf]

Prayers sent from a fellow Ron. Everything will work out ok.

Ron

[gray wolf]

Prayer said for you Ron,
Along with my personnel thoughts for you and the family for a speed and whole recovery.

[smoked turkey]

Prayer works and I believe it will work for your need too Ron. There is no problem too big for our God who is rich in mercy and love to us mere mortals. I pray for wisdom for the health care providers because as stated above God gives wisdom in time of need and He regularly uses the medical facilities to do his work.

[tomme boy]

Prayers offered Sir! This place needs more people like you. So don't be going anywhere.

[bhop]

Praying for you Ron. You have my number if you need someone to just listen.

[smokeywolf]

BrassMagnet, I am terribly sorry that you are having to face this challenge. I'll pray for good news from your medical tests, spiritual and emotional strength for you and God given knowledge, skills and abilities for your doctors.

Persevere and know that you have many here on the CB Forum who are praying for your complete recovery.

[MaryB]

Prayers for a complete recovery!

[lead-1]

Prayers sent for God's healing. <><

[rancher1913]

praying for good news. let me know if I can help in any way.

[randyrat]

Ron,
Prayers sent for you and your family.
Randy

[buckwheatpaul]

Dear heavenly Father, I pray that You will heal Brass Magnet and take all sign of his medical afflication away. Calm his fears and the fears of his family and allow him the use of the best medical professionals to cure his symptoms. I ask this in Your name because we recognize that You are in charge and that you only ask for our obedience. Amen

[flint45]

prayers for you brother.No matter what happens your in His Hands Thank you LORD.

[Mooseman]

Ron, I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers as you face any challenges ahead .
Rich

[BrassMagnet]

Just a quick update.

Next week I am scheduled for an EGD at the VA to see if gastric reflux is at fault for the coughing.
Next week I am scheduled for a ultrasound at the VA to look at one of the nodules.
In three weeks I am scheduled for a MRI at the VA to look at my chest.
The VA has approved local non-VA doctors to diagnose and treat the thyroid and lung, Otolaryngologist and Pulmonary specialists here in Grand Junction. Both are supposed to contact me to schedule appointments within a week of the letter's date. So by next Wednesday I should have appointments.

In summary, the VA is working quickly to diagnose and treat my health issues.

[kbstenberg]

At least something in the Gov. is working to our advantage.

[shoot-n-lead]

Prayer sent and will continue for you.

GOD bless you.

[725]

You got it, brother. Best wishes and hopes.

[TXGunNut]

Your OP strikes a bit close to home, my pulmonary doc has been scratching his head over my recent imaging results. If you want a second opinion from a good doc who will tell you straight PM me, I'll even put you up in my guest room so you won't have to get a motel room to see him.
You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers.

[gds45]

All the best for a speedy and complete recovery !!!!

[cajun shooter]

I've never had the pleasure to talk or do any deals with you on the forum but you have made me laugh more than once when you beat out another member in the swap & sell section.
I'm happy to see that you are at least receiving some fast help from the VA. My time with them back in the late 60's and early 70's after my tour of duty was nothing but a giant frustration. They actually gave me one appointment that was a year wait.
My prayers will be said that you have a speedy and worry free recovery from whatever health problems arise. Our medicine has improved by giant leaps in the past 10 years and they now can do things that were considered a miracle in the past. Take Care, David

[shdwlkr]

to one who stood for America
May your medical team be spot on and the cure be a long lasting one
May your fears and concerns be calmed by the great healer
May your family be calmed and comforted
May you once again find calm and be able to look into the future
Most of all thanks for your service and also sacrifices

[Artful]

In summary, the VA is working quickly to diagnose and treat my health issues.

See Prayer works - unlike the VA in Phoenix who would have lost your pprwrk by now. ;)

[xbeeman412]

Just saw this thread Ron, Prayer going up for You now.

[merlin101]

Prayers sent, and wishing you good luck too.

[snuffy]

You've got my prayers Ron. Never underestimate the powder of a bunch of people all praying for one person.

[4719dave]

Well , im not either a big prayer guy ! But we talk every so often .i'll send one this week end .Hope all gets better this place is like having a 2nd family .

[timspawn]

I hope all of your news is good. Hang in there.

[myg30]

Prayers sent for you and your family for a Speedy recovery.
God Bless

Mike

[Uncle R.]

Best wishes and prayers for you.
Glad to see the VA is responding properly, and I hope the outcome of all their testing is good.

Uncle R.

[jonp]

Prayers your way, Ron. Thanks for your help with the 30-06 brass

[Clay M]

I will be praying for you. I had abnormal nodules on my thyroid and the ultrasound showed it to be benign.
I will pray that yours is the same.

[Littlewolf]

Gads buddy giterdone i'll be calling the extra guard

[BrassMagnet]

Things are starting to move right along.
I had my pre-op meetings for the EGD today. EGD is Esophagogastroduodenscopy which scopes out the throat, esophagus, stomach, and the top of the small intestine. They also decided to do a colonoscopy at the same time. I did stress throat first because I sure don't want to wake up with a crappy taste in my mouth! That is scheduled for Wednesday morning.
Tuesday morning is an ultrasound and then an appointment with the thyroid doctor. The thyroid doctor is not VA, he is at Saint Mary's Hospital. I'm supposed to take my Magnesium Citrate Oral solution at the same time as my appointment. I guess I'll be a few minutes late for that.
There is sure a lot starting to happen.

I just checked my mail and I have a pulmonary appointment at Saint Mary's a week from Thursday, August 13.

[xbeeman412]

Been there with the mag citrate, that's better than the golightly ...that's a whole gallon of YUK.
You are still in our Prayers every day Ron.

Get better as I want to drop in to see Yall later ,last of the month or first of next and need U to be in full spirits then.

[BrassMagnet]

Been there with the mag citrate, that's better than the golightly ...that's a whole gallon of YUK.
You are still in our Prayers every day Ron.

Get better as I want to drop in to see Yall later ,last of the month or first of next and need U to be in full spirits then.

I'm sure looking forward to it!

[labradigger1]

Wishing you well Ron. The mag citrus will leave you EMPTY.
Lab

[Clay M]

My Doctor had me drink a whole bottle of Miralax . That was the worse part.He put me to sleep with Propofol,So I never knew anything about the procedure.
I have to go back to my Cardiologist tomorrow and get a Echocardiogram.
I will be thinking about you and praying for you tomorrow while I have my procedure.

[LuckyDog]

Can you mix the mag citrus with yellow Gatorade? IIRC that's what I did. What ever I used, yellow Gatorade sure helped keep /get out down.

[bullet maker 57]

Prayers for you and your family.

[Clay M]

And I have never liked yellow Gator aide since then.Hum wonder why I always buy the orange now.:lol:

[tnaz]

Prayers sent your way.

[jonp]

I had a girlfriend that had to have her thyroid killed by radiation then took synthroid. Other than a little fooling around with the dosage to get it correct and some temporary weight gain, which looked very good on her, she didn't miss a beat.

[Artful]

Plan your day around the bathroom after you take your med - trust me it can be a long trip from the lazyboy to the throne.

[Bjornb]

Ron,
very sorry to hear about your health problems. You are in my thoughts my good friend. Get well soon.

[slim1836]

Sending prayers that way and hoping for the best.

Slim

[lakeparkv8]

Prayers to you my friend! Hope all turns out well!

[DLCTEX]

Praying for you Ron!

[sparky45]

Things are starting to move right along.
I had my pre-op meetings for the EGD today. EGD is Esophagogastroduodenscopy which scopes out the throat, esophagus, stomach, and the top of the small intestine. They also decided to do a colonoscopy at the same time. I did stress throat first because I sure don't want to wake up with a crappy taste in my mouth! That is scheduled for Wednesday morning.
Tuesday morning is an ultrasound and then an appointment with the thyroid doctor. The thyroid doctor is not VA, he is at Saint Mary's Hospital. I'm supposed to take my Magnesium Citrate Oral solution at the same time as my appointment. I guess I'll be a few minutes late for that.
There is sure a lot starting to happen.

I just checked my mail and I have a pulmonary appointment at Saint Mary's a week from Thursday, August 13.

So very glad you're getting everything "moving" fast. I noticed a lump in my neck and within a couple of weeks had a total Thyroidectomy. Mine was cancer, but I was totally cured with the surgery, and quite frankly I was only in the hospital one day. Exceptionally pain free procedure, at least for me it was, and back to work a week later. Other than a dosage of a radioactive isotope capsule I required nothing further except for replacement thyroid tablets.
I pray the Good Lord will keep you and your family from fear and follow you throughout this medical sojourn.

[osteodoc08]

Wishing you the best of luck during your US today. Dont worry, we use different scopes for the top and bottom. LOL.

Thank you for keeping us posted here on CB.

Prayers sent.

[BrassMagnet]

Wishing you the best of luck during your US today. Dont worry, we use different scopes for the top and bottom. LOL.

Thank you for keeping us posted here on CB.

Prayers sent.

I know that, but you have to find some humor!

[1980Harley]

Prayers for you and your loved ones. I had a similar diagnosis last year and the best I can say is to keep your hopes up and take it one day at a time.

[LuckyDog]

I know that, but you have to find some humor!

I asked the doctor if we could snuggle after. :bigsmyl2:

[osteodoc08]

I know that, but you have to find some humor!

How do you tell the rectal and oral thermometer apart.............the taste. Ha Ha Ha.

Let me know which one they use today.

Seriously though, best of luck today. Yes, humor is sometimes good medicine.

[Clay M]

When they did my first colonoscopy about seven year's ago ,they found pre cancerous polyps .They remove them with the scope. I am sure that probably saved my life in the long run.
I am wishing you the best .
Just be sure that they put you to sleep for the procedure. My son had one done in the UK and they did not put him to sleep.
He said never again.

[BrassMagnet]

I asked the doctor if we could snuggle after. :bigsmyl2:

Doctor is a cute lady in her fifties, my age, and made sure to let me know about her divorce.
I let her know about my wife driving me home after the procedure.
Mrs. Brass comes from a ranching family. She knows how to take a young bull's mind off *** and put it on gr*** where it belongs!
I'm not volunteering for that minor surgical procedure by straying!

[square butte]

Those ranch gals do have a way of taking care of business and clearing one's mind. You got a winner - and a keeper.

[BrassMagnet]

Those ranch gals do have a way of taking care of business and clearing one's mind. You got a winner - and a keeper.


21 years together now!

[Artful]

Still praying for the best possible outcome for you and your family - not just you bud.
http://imagesnation.com/pics/Costumes/adult-sexy-doctor-costume.jpg

[BrassMagnet]

Well, I went in today being certain they would surgically remove the nodule on my thyroid, or even the entire thyroid.
First was a ultrasound of the thyroid this morning. Big nodule!
Next was a visit to Dr. T to check out the thyroid. Dr. T tells me that a lot more of these nodules are being detected due to new technology like CAT scans, etc. He say 30% of the people visiting the mall today likely have one, and almost all are benign and not a problem. Dr. T believes mine is benign and reports my thyroid is functioning normally per the lab results. Dr. T ordered a CT scan of my sinuses and an ultrasound guided fine needle to collect a sample of the nodule. Dr. T wants to check for signs of cancer in the nodule or any indication of sinus issues to be considered when all of the test results are in to decide which issues are likely to be causing the coughing issues.

Right now I am studying for the colonoscopy.

While waiting for the ultrasound, I got to visit with a Korean War veteran who spent 2 1/2 years as a POW. His unit started with 29 men and they only had one bandolier of ammo for their Garands to supplement their ammo belt pouches. When they ran out of ammo, they were down to 27 men. As a POW, he was taken to China and then Mongolia. The Chinese treated them very poorly. He did say the Mongolians treated them very well. He was the senior man in the unit.
What a man!

[smokeywolf]

Just a few months ago someone near and dear to me had a large benign cyst removed from the thyroid. All went well, healing was quick and back to work in under a week.

[tdoor4570]

thyroid biopsy lots of fun been through two of them, didn't get enough cells to even make a call. I have a nodule on each end of my thyroid, no ill efects at all Good luck on your test

[skeettx]

Ron
Prayers lifted up for you and your health and treatment!!
Praying HARD
Mike

[Clay M]

So far so good, and I did remember to pray for you today while they were doing my test.

[BrassMagnet]

I'm off for the taste test in a few minutes.
I'll check back here later today with results.
Enjoy a clear field in Swapping & Selling. The VA will keep me away from PCs and smart phones!

[Clay M]

I'm off for the taste test in a few minutes.
I'll check back here later today with results.
Enjoy a clear field in Swapping & Selling. The VA will keep me away from PCs and smart phones!

Good Luck ,and I will be praying for you again.
You need to have these test done anyway if you are over fifty years old.

[GoodOlBoy]

Prayers for ya buddy. Sorry it took me this long to see the thread.

God Bless

Richard

[Artful]

Have a great day and pass all your tests with flying colors.

[BrassMagnet]

Good Luck ,and I will be praying for you again.
You need to have these test done anyway if you are over fifty years old.

You can have full fledged colon cancer before 50. My brother-in-law did. He was uninsured while owning his own business. He lost his business and applied for a job with the company he had the franchise with. They hired him and after one week on the job he ended up in the emergency room with colon cancer. Thankfully, his new job came with health insurance and they covered him. He responded well to chemotherapy after the surgery and he is doing well now.
They liked him so well on the job that he is still there!
Catching it as polyps would have been much better.
The testing is undignified, but far superior to the alternative!

[BrassMagnet]

I passed the taste test. No crappy after taste!
I woke up between the stomach scoping and the back side scoping, so I know they were done in the proper order!
All is normal inside.

[MrWolf]

Great news! I know when I had my colonoscopy the doc stated I needed to drink more! Told him I was basically on the throne for 24 hours and there was nothing left. Thankfully the next one was 10 years so my turn again in 5 years.

[mold maker]

Wife, and family friend, both had the colonoscopy this morning. Small polyps removed, and back home by lunch.
Is this a red letter day for rear scopes?

[LuckyDog]

....All is normal inside.[smilie=w:

Well, at least from the neck down. :kidding:


My Pap died from colon cancer. Got my first probe at 45.

[Clay M]

I passed the taste test. No crappy after taste!
I woke up between the stomach scoping and the back side scoping, so I know they were done in the proper order!
All is normal inside.

Great news! Thanks for the update. Prayers were answered.

[osteodoc08]

I passed the taste test. No crappy after taste!
I woke up between the stomach scoping and the back side scoping, so I know they were done in the proper order!
All is normal inside.

Fantastic news!

Now just need to get the thyroid thing situated. Continued prayers!

[Artful]

Thanks for the update - prayers continuing for best possible outcome.

[MaryB]

36 feet from my spot in the living room to the throne... when I had it done I almost didn't make it a few times! Do not fart!


Plan your day around the bathroom after you take your med - trust me it can be a long trip from the lazyboy to the throne.

[mold maker]

It can be a long trip from the recliner to, your feet on the floor. Ask me how I know!!!!!!!!!
You have no idea how fast your old bones will move, till it happens.
DON'T even cough, or sneeze.

[gray wolf]

Seems all is looking good, and that's great..

Praying for you.

Sam

[BrassMagnet]

August 13, 2015 update.

Well, as most of you know I have a chronic cough that just won't go away. A CAT scan to try to find a reason for the cough showed a number of scary nodules here and there inside me. Since then I have been seeing a lot of doctors and they have been trying to determine if the nodules were major problems or not. Most of the news I have gotten up until today was either "good news" or "to be continued..."

Since the VA doesn't have all of the specialists here, it was either travel or see if the VA would pay a local doctor to test and diagnose. The VA did approve local doctors from Saint Mary's to check out the nodules on my thyroid and lung.
Last week the thyroid doctor, Doctor T, suggested an ultrasound guided biopsy and a CT scan of my sinuses with a follow-up appointment next week on 8/25/15.
Today was a lung doctor. Doctor P didn't have access to the CAT scan and had to get the VA to release it to him. I also got to do a whole bunch of uncomfortable lung tests. Doctor P was unable to find the nodules in the CAT scan. Based on their reported size, 6 MM and 8 MM, and my other statistics the 8 MM nodule would have put me at intermediate risk of lung cancer. My lung function, capacity, etc. all rated as outstanding. No sign at all that I was a chain smoker 31 years ago when I quit cold turkey. I left Doctor P's office with "to be continued..."
He referred the CAT scan to radiology at Saint Mary's for re-evaluation and promised to call when they were finished. This also calls into question the liver lesion.

Doctor P called Mrs. Brass with the good news while I was still at work. No lung nodules and no risk of lung cancer. He has referred the CAT scan back to the VA for re-evaluation.

I needed to call the VA radiology today and schedule the ultrasound guided biopsy and a CT scan of my sinuses for Doctor T. The suggested earliest appointment was the day after Doctor T's follow-up. I let it be known that would not work and now the ultrasound guided biopsy and a CT scan of my sinuses are scheduled for 8/20/15. The next thyroid appointment with Doctor T is 8/25/15.

Mrs. Brass and I are toasting the great news right now!

I also received a letter today with the EGD and colonoscopy results. EGD biopsy showed some chronic inflammation and the colonoscopy was absolutely clean.

[M-Tecs]

Wonderfull!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Wayne Smith]

Good news and waiting for more! Praying that the thyroid scan is negative as well. Sinus problems are workable, nodules may mean surgery but it is not serious.

[brstevns]

Wonderful! to hear Ron, I am still praying.

[Artful]

Good News indeed, celebrate like it's 1999!

[smoked turkey]

I'd say good news and it is time to celebrate and also to be thankful for the good reports thus far. Thank you Lord for your at work in this scary situation.

[Bullfrog]

Brass I have not been as diligent as I should have been because of my recent house fiasco. I read through the six pages to get caught up and I am very happy that the news you received is good news. I did say a prayer about page three and wondered what in the world I would do if I did not see you snatching up things on S & S like usual, but then I realized that you have not been snatching up stuff.

[MrWolf]

Great news Ron [smilie=w: !

[LuckyDog]

Awesome. Thank you for the update.

[BrassMagnet]

Brass I have not been as diligent as I should have been because of my recent house fiasco. I read through the six pages to get caught up and I am very happy that the news you received is good news. I did say a prayer about page three and wondered what in the world I would do if I did not see you snatching up things on S & S like usual, but then I realized that you have not been snatching up stuff.


I am trying very hard to slow down in S&S. It's just so hard to pass up great deals!

[Bzcraig]

Answered prayer I'd say.

[skeettx]

God is Good
Continuing to pray
Mike

[Just Duke]

Get well soon sir.

[square butte]

I am pretty sure that excess brass can cause chronic inflammation in the bowels... Smiles

[bstone5]

Go see the specialist in the required fields of medicine.
VA for general care but see the right doctors.
Prayer for you.

[maxreloader]

Thoughts and Prayers for a speedy recovery!

[bullet maker 57]

Glad to hear some good news Ron.

[osteodoc08]

Glad to here of the great news. More prayers sent.

[Olevern]

Just saw this and will lift you up to He who holds you and all His creation in his hands.

[BrassMagnet]

August 25, 2015 update.

Well, as most of you know I have a chronic cough that just won't go away. A CAT scan to try to find a reason for the cough showed a number of scary nodules here and there inside me. Since then I have been seeing a lot of doctors and they have been trying to determine if the nodules were major problems or not. Most of the news I have gotten up until today was either "good news" or "to be continued..."

I saw Dr. T today. Great news from the CT scan of my sinuses and thyroid nodule biopsy! Benign nodule and likely there for years and just detected because of the CAT scan due to the coughing.
Inflamed tissue and infection in my sinuses. Surgery is possible, but not indicated at this time. I recently took an antibiotic and it got better, but not solved. So I get to take strong antibiotic for a month and an anti-inflammatory for nine days. The anti-inflammatory has side effects which are likely with the normal month or longer dosages. This nine day course starts strong and tapers off rapidly, i.e. 3 pills for three days, 2 pills for three days, and then 1 pill for three days. I have a follow-up in a month to check for improvement and in three months or six months to see if there has been any growth.

So we started with nodules on the thyroid and lung, and a lesion on the liver. We are now at the stage where the thyroid and lung are not a problem. The liver should be decided soon as I had the MRI last Friday. The liver did not really concern my primary care doctor, but is being checked out due to an abundance of concern.

I feel like I am about to wakeup from a bad dream and realize it was nothing but a dream.

Mrs. Brass and I will be toasting the great news soon!

[Clay M]

August 25, 2015 update.

Well, as most of you know I have a chronic cough that just won't go away. A CAT scan to try to find a reason for the cough showed a number of scary nodules here and there inside me. Since then I have been seeing a lot of doctors and they have been trying to determine if the nodules were major problems or not. Most of the news I have gotten up until today was either "good news" or "to be continued..."

I saw Dr. T today. Great news from the CT scan of my sinuses and thyroid nodule biopsy! Benign nodule and likely there for years and just detected because of the CAT scan due to the coughing.
Inflamed tissue and infection in my sinuses. Surgery is possible, but not indicated at this time. I recently took an antibiotic and it got better, but not solved. So I get to take strong antibiotic for a month and an anti-inflammatory for nine days. The anti-inflammatory has side effects which are likely with the normal month or longer dosages. This nine day course starts strong and tapers off rapidly, i.e. 3 pills for three days, 2 pills for three days, and then 1 pill for three days. I have a follow-up in a month to check for improvement and in three months or six months to see if there has been any growth.

So we started with nodules on the thyroid and lung, and a lesion on the liver. We are now at the stage where the thyroid and lung are not a problem. The liver should be decided soon as I had the MRI last Friday. The liver did not really concern my primary care doctor, but is being checked out due to an abundance of concern.

I feel like I am about to wakeup from a bad dream and realize it was nothing but a dream.

Mrs. Brass and I will be toasting the great news soon!

Sound like great new my friend.In the old days I would celebrate with some Jack Daniels.
I still love Jack Daniels TOO much , so I no longer buy it.

I am very happy for you..

[retread]

You will be in my prayers Ron. Keep us posted.

Jay

[kungfustyle]

Fantastic news. Glad to hear it! Prayers are answered.

[fatnhappy]

great news Ron. It's nice to hear good news for a change.

[skeettx]

God is sooooooooo Good!!
Great news
YEEEEE HAWWWW
Mike

[SSGOldfart]

Already done Sir,you keep after them don't get pushed to the back row,the VA is a lot Better than we give them credit for most of the time you'll want second opinion either way they told me months,then on second opinion I was told weeks instead of months stage4 now but I'm having more good than bad days now so I'm dusting off the shotgun and planning to get a few doves next week,then I'll get in some range time with the 06,my doctors don't want the recoil with this bubble on my brain,guess I'm next in line to meet up with Flex again.I'll See you on the other side my friend......

[SSGOldfart]

August 25, 2015 update.

Well, as most of you know I have a chronic cough that just won't go away. A CAT scan to try to find a reason for the cough showed a number of scary nodules here and there inside me. Since then I have been seeing a lot of doctors and they have been trying to determine if the nodules were major problems or not. Most of the news I have gotten up until today was either "good news" or "to be continued..."

I saw Dr. T today. Great news from the CT scan of my sinuses and thyroid nodule biopsy! Benign nodule and likely there for years and just detected because of the CAT scan due to the coughing.
Inflamed tissue and infection in my sinuses. Surgery is possible, but not indicated at this time. I recently took an antibiotic and it got better, but not solved. So I get to take strong antibiotic for a month and an anti-inflammatory for nine days. The anti-inflammatory has side effects which are likely with the normal month or longer dosages. This nine day course starts strong and tapers off rapidly, i.e. 3 pills for three days, 2 pills for three days, and then 1 pill for three days. I have a follow-up in a month to check for improvement and in three months or six months to see if there has been any growth.

So we started with nodules on the thyroid and lung, and a lesion on the liver. We are now at the stage where the thyroid and lung are not a problem. The liver should be decided soon as I had the MRI last Friday. The liver did not really concern my primary care doctor, but is being checked out due to an abundance of concern.

I feel like I am about to wakeup from a bad dream and realize it was nothing but a dream.

Mrs. Brass and I will be toasting the great news soon!

Nice to hear good news keep us posted:bigsmyl2:[smilie=w:

[osteodoc08]

That is the best news I've heard all week. God is great.

[Artful]

I'm happy to hear all this good news

[w5pv]

Prayers sent for you and family that it all disappears and you have a complete and speedy recover.

[BrassMagnet]

Already done Sir,you keep after them don't get pushed to the back row,the VA is a lot Better than we give them credit for most of the time you'll want second opinion either way they told me months,then on second opinion I was told weeks instead of months stage4 now but I'm having more good than bad days now so I'm dusting off the shotgun and planning to get a few doves next week,then I'll get in some range time with the 06,my doctors don't want the recoil with this bubble on my brain,guess I'm next in line to meet up with Flex again.I'll See you on the other side my friend......

Thank you for your prayers. We will all meet there eventually. Please don't look down on me because I want to wait quite a while longer!
In the end, all we leave behind are the memories of us. It is good to pass on our love for the sport and freedom to those that follow us so they can pass it on down the line.

[1989toddm]

Thank the good Lord for good news.

[SSGOldfart]

Thank you for your prayers. We will all meet there eventually. Please don't look down on me because I want to wait quite a while longer!
In the end, all we leave behind are the memories of us. It is good to pass on our love for the sport and freedom to those that follow us so they can pass it on down the line.
No worries,by all means don't be in a hurry
You know I should have worded thatbetter Sorry if I caused you any stressful minutes
Please get well soon your needed here for a good long time yet

[DaveInFloweryBranchGA]

Brass,

Having suffered a on/off cough for the past year, I totally understand what you are saying/feeling. Recently, I had a cat scan of my lungs and my pulmonologist ruled out any lung disease and referred me to an ENT/Allergist. My Mom, oldest brother and second oldest brother all have/had pulmonary fibrosis, so I was really concerned and weighed down for the last year.

Like you, I may have nothing but a nodule/polyp on my throat or nasal passageways due to a broken nose years ago and allergies. I pray for your final diagnosis and resolution, as I know how miserable & exhausting all the coughing can be from personal experience.

Best Regards,

Dave In GA

[BrassMagnet]

We can lay this to rest. Follow up scans show no growth in any of the nodules since 2015. This confirms the diagnosis of all are benign!
Woo Hoo!

[Three44s]

That is truely great news!

Best regards

Three44s

[blackthorn]

Prayers and best wishes from our house !

Gail and Ralph

[skeettx]

Yeeeeeeee Hawwwww!!
Mike

[Preacher Jim]

Praise the Lord

[gray wolf]

prayers said for you Sir.

[Omega]

Great News! Always glad to hear news like this.

[Idaho45guy]

Praise God!

[smoked turkey]

Ron, I just read through most of this old and now new thread. I only have three words that are totally appropriate for this and they are..."Praise The Lord". I believe you have been given more time to do what you do. I do believe in prayer and it reminds me of an old pastor who when asked if he believed in "Divine Healing" answered wisely and said, there is no other kind. Great news from you today.
Stan

[Iron Whittler]

Ron, glad to hear you are doing better. Looking forward to being a BrassyClause helper again. Keep on shoot'n the 10 ring!! Dennis aka Iron Whittler :drinks:

[Hickok]

Praise the LordI agree, praise the Lord and so happy for you! God's blessing and best for you and your family!

[kungfustyle]

Just saw this. Thank God for the good news.

[ghh3rd]

Fantastic news!

[gpidaho]

Happy for you Ron. Having come back from stage four throat cancer five years ago, I know the weight that's lifted off your shoulders when good news comes through. You had a lot of friends praying for you. Make the best of your new found years. Gp

[retread]

Really good news Ron! Praise the Lord!

[lightman]

Thats certainly good news. Thanks for the follow up.

[MrWolf]

Great news Ron!

[SyberShooter]

BM
Sorry to hear of your problem...
I had base-of-tongue cancer in 2010 and was told 2 weeks to live- my only hope was the Mayo Clinic and they said 15% chance of surviving the operation... that was 8 years ago and now I have inoperable prostate cancer so I contacted Mayo again... they are proposing hormone/proton beam radiation- might turn me into a girly-man but its better than the alternative...

I highly recommend the Mayo Clinic in Phoenix if you can arrange it. The Cancer Society can provide housing for out-of-town treatment (they put us up at a golf resort for several weeks last time)
Good Luck
ss

[cajun shooter]

BM, I served from 1965-68 with the 4th ID. I believe in prayer and will be more than happy to include you. Best wishes

[woodbutcher]

[smilie=w: Outstanding news BM.A little heart to heart with the Good Lord can and does work wonders.
Good luck.Have fun.Be safe.
Leo

[BrassMagnet]

Ron, glad to hear you are doing better. Looking forward to being a BrassyClause helper again. Keep on shoot'n the 10 ring!! Dennis aka Iron Whittler :drinks:


Shooting in the 10 ring gets tougher as you age.
I dropped out of competition when I started all of the testing for this.
I know my eye sight is worse now.
Years ago I went to the "dark side" and tried a "black gun" and my scores went way up, just not enough to leg.
Now CMP allows optics up to "4X" on a Service Rifle in Leg matches.
It is now time to go to the "dark side" of the "dark side" and build a rifle with optics.

I found a Nikon M223 in the Bargain Cave. I intend to pick up a stripped lower today and my "care package" from White Oak arrives Monday with the rest.

[skeettx]

YES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Good post. LUKE!

[tdoor4570]

Well shucks guess you are going to live, will have to return the stuff I got borrowed from you . Great news I felt the same when the biopsy came back neg on me