Ashley Hammerseng

During the week of February 11 a pain that I was experiencing on the left side of my face became worse and almost unbearable. I went to the emergency room where they did a CT scan and found a tumor. I was referred to an Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat doctor) in Fridley. He examined me and told me the tumor was too big and that I should be seen at the University of Minnesota. I got an appointment the very next day.   During the appointment there on February 21 I was able to see the scan and be examined by the specialist there. The tumor was very large and I learned it would have to be removed, but first a biopsy under general anesthesia  needed to be done.  I was scared as I have never had a surgery like that before, but I got through it on March 1.  On March 7 we met with the physician at the U of M and learned that my tumor was cancerous - Adenoid cystic carcinoma grade 3.  A PET scan and MRI were done on March 12 and I have learned that the cancer has not spread to other parts of my body - wonderful and hopeful news. Now, we will wait for a plan on treatment of my tumor. 
Thank  you for visiting this site and I will try to keep you up to date with entries when there is news to report. I have a strong faith in God and hope that this site will one day be deactivated because I will be cancer free.