Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis: My Emotions in the First 3 Days

Thyroid Cancer, Who Are You?

I first discovered that I had a thyroid nodule during a health checkup last year.
Until then, I had never specifically checked my thyroid. One day, I casually thought, “Why not give it a try?” and took the test. At that time, the result was simple: follow-up observation.

Six to seven months passed.

After undergoing a breast procedure (Mammotome), I decided to check my thyroid again — something I had unintentionally neglected.

The result was different this time.

The nodule had grown.

That wasn’t good news.

Just like last year, I went through a biopsy again. The doctor recommended it once more, and honestly, my first thought was, “There goes more hospital bills.” It felt heavy, but I tried to comfort myself — this was for my health.

I waited a week for the results.

I was sure it would be the same as before.

Follow-up observation.

But the doctor said something I never expected.

“You have thyroid cancer.”

“I Have Cancer?”

I couldn’t believe it.

The doctor explained everything, but I honestly couldn’t hear anything.
It felt like all the words were just passing by me.

I was referred to a larger hospital.

Even now, it still doesn’t feel real.

The word “cancer” carries an overwhelming weight.

I only told my older sister.
I couldn’t bring myself to tell my parents yet.

Day 3 – Still in Denial

It has been three days since my diagnosis.

I still can’t accept it.

I go on with my daily life as if nothing happened.
But suddenly, sadness hits me.
And then comes the quiet depression.

Finding Comfort in Strangers

While searching about thyroid cancer, I joined a Naver cafe where people share similar experiences.

There were more people than I expected.

People getting diagnosed.
Scheduling surgeries.
Going through treatments.

It gave me a strange sense of comfort.

At the same time, I wondered,
“Are there really this many people with cancer?”

Trying to Stay Calm

I try to stay mentally strong, but it’s not easy.

The thought keeps coming back:

“How can I have thyroid cancer?”

My mind feels messy and overwhelming.

That’s why I decided to write this on Blogspot.

Since it doesn’t get much exposure, it feels like a safe space — like a bamboo forest where I can quietly let things out.

Maybe one day, I’ll look back and realize this moment wasn’t as overwhelming as it feels now.

Or maybe, this will become my own essay.

If my story resonates with you,

I hope someday it can be published.