The Day Before Hospitalization for Thyroid Cancer: A Record Before Surgery

 

Thyroid Cancer Diagnosis and Quick Hospitalization

In March, the thyroid that had been under follow-up observation turned out to be cancer. I received a confirmed diagnosis from the third and final fine needle aspiration biopsy. I consider myself somewhat fortunate. After the diagnosis, it did not take long—about a month—to proceed with treatment and hospitalization.

An Ordinary Day Before Hospitalization

The weather is bright and clear. At the vague boundary between spring and summer, the breeze feels cool. I packed a bag full of necessities for the hospital and left home. I had a bowl of cold naengmyeon with my older sister and also drank a cup of instant mix coffee at the restaurant. The hospital I go to has convenient transportation. It is optimized for patients and drops you off right in front of the hospital.

Admission Process and Hospital Atmosphere

At 2 PM, I completed the admission process. “Would you like a window-side bed?” The staff guided me to a spot near the window so it wouldn’t feel stuffy. On Sunday, the first-floor lobby of the hospital was quiet and not crowded. Some patients in hospital gowns were sitting on chairs or walking around.

Two Surgeries Within a Month

Last month, I had a mammotome procedure, and now I am back on the operating table again within a month. It feels strange. I still can’t quite believe that I have thyroid cancer. At least it is in the early stage, and I will be okay after surgery.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

After arriving at the room, I changed into a hospital gown. I put down my belongings, used my phone for a while, and then turned on my laptop. A nurse explained the hospital guidelines, and the anesthesiologist provided precautions for sedation. My surgery was scheduled for Monday at 10 AM. I had to start fasting from midnight. If the surgery goes well, everything will be fine.

Quiet Time in the Hospital Room

The hospital room is quiet, and a cool breeze comes in through the window, which makes me feel at ease. My sister stepped out for a moment to buy ice cream from the convenience store. I’m not sure if the mix coffee I had earlier feels heavy, but I keep craving something cold.

The Reality of Facing Surgery

I also completed the surgical consent form. I received information about the surgery, had my ears and nose checked, and underwent an ultrasound examination. The doctor marked the surgical area with a pen. It finally feels real that I am actually going to have surgery.