Debra Cazale

On July 21st 2016, I was told that I have Stage IIIA Ovarian Cancer.  Of all the things my Doc said during the 20 minute discussion before and after I heard that, the one thing I will never forget and has already become my rally cry is that this is “very curable”. 

My journey began in June when I experienced pain in my left abdomen.  The pain only lasted a few days, was not constant and wasn’t even really that painful. BUT IT WASN’T NORMAL.  So that began a series of doctor visits, ultrasounds, scans etc… that discovered a “very large” cyst (think 7” x 7”).

I will take a moment to provide a Public Service Announcement for the ladies reading this: Don’t assume that abdominal weight “at our age” is because of menopause.  Although perhaps a valid reason, any gain that just doesn’t feel right should be checked out by your doctor.

Surgery on July 12th removed the mass and a full hysterectomy; a quick biopsy done during surgery had us all believing it was not cancer. The full biopsy report however showed a “microscopic spread” of the disease.

I will be using Caring Bridge as my communication vehicle to share health updates.  My  only disclaimer is that I may choose to use my own terminology vs. the doctor’s – so when I say something like “thingee” in my journal update, you’ll just have to figure out what I mean : )

Have a Blessed Day!