Step-on-me vs. Ovarian Cancer

Shhhhhh.... Imagine that I am whispering to you through this entire post. If you don't already know the month of September represents Ovarian Cancer month.  Unlike breast cancer, the awareness of Ovarian Cancer has not made "prime time."  You will not see football players wearing teal, Duck Dynasty headbands at the corner store in teal, or entire brands that change their colors to teal for a month so that everyone is aware of the dangers related to this type of cancer. Ovarian cancer is one of the deadliest cancers to women.  It is a cancer that can be easy to treat if caught early.  The problem with Ovarian cancer is that it 'Whispers.'  Unlike many cancers, there are very few noticeable symptoms before it reaches advanced stages.  There are, however, subtle symptoms to look out for and ways to detect the deadly disease before it reaches advanced, and ultimately deadly, stages. My beautiful, strong, and resilient wife is very passionate about helping...

I had a scheduled post-op follow up with my GYN-ONC (gynecologist oncologist) to look at the site where my IP Port was removed.  This appointment was just to ensure that I was healing properly.  However, when I arrived at my appointment, I was notified that we were close enough to my 3 month post-chemo check up that they were going to do that appointment as well.  This involves all my labs being drawn, including the tumor marker CA125, and a physical exam.  What a pleasant surprise.... :-/ After getting over the shock of unexpected prodding, we learned that my labs were great!  My CA125 remained steady at <5, which is the lowest value the lab will report.  Even though the CA125 isn't the best marker for me, I am thankful this number remains low.  Also, my doctor said my physical exam looked perfect! Way back last September, we learned that I also had a "spot" on my kidney.  My urologist oncologist felt that this should take a back burner to...