I am excited to tell you how the story ends, but there are a couple of items I need to explain. I have received comments on my previous posts from people with thyroid problems. I want to clarify that hyperparathyroidism has nothing to do with your thyroid. The only reason thyroid is mentioned in hyperparathyroidism is because they are the glands which are behind your thyroid. Fortunately, I’ve never had a problem with my thyroid. Also, I do not take any medication for my thyroid or my hyperparathyroidism. I know the terminology is confusing, but I wanted to make sure you had a clear understanding. For more information about hyperparathyroidism, click on the link, and it will answer any questions you may have.
Now, back to my story. We arrived in Tampa where the weather was hot! We rented our car and traveled to the downtown hotel recommended by the Norman Parathyroid Center. We arrived early, but the staff was very kind and let us check into our room. One of the main reasons we chose this hotel was because they have a shuttle which will take you directly to the hospital and pick you up after your surgery. I gave them the time I needed to be there, and we were all set for the shuttle for surgery day.
We settled in and rested for a few minutes then set off on foot to see what was around us. The first thing we did was grab a sandwich at a new place called Earl of Sandwich. I ordered a cheesesteak with some kettle chips and a drink, and it did not disappoint. After our quick lunch, we walked around downtown Tampa, but it was so hot we ended up going back to the hotel to bask in the air-conditioning and make a plan for the rest of our day. We decided we needed a few grocery items, so we grabbed the hotel shuttle which took us to Publix. Our driver was super nice and told us to call when we were finished shopping, and he would pick us up. If I were going for the surgery alone and not a few days on the beach afterward, I would have saved myself the expense and not rented a car. We didn’t use our rental car the whole time we were in downtown Tampa.
On our way back from Publix, the shuttle driver had to pick up a parathyroid patient from Tampa General. I was glad we had the opportunity to have a glimpse of Tampa General Hospital plus the ability to see someone who just had the surgery. Two men got on the shuttle, and one had the famous 1-inch strip across his neck. They began to talk to us, and I shared I was having the same surgery the following day. Rocky (his name) went on to tell me he had been in pain for over ten years, but when he woke up from surgery, he didn’t have any pain. He couldn’t get over how instantly he felt so much better, but he did. One of the things I had read about is how much better you feel right after the surgery, but to be honest, I had some doubt about how good you could feel right after having your throat cut. I also thought maybe in Rocky’s case it was pain medication that was talking, but he was adamant about how good he felt. Rocky shared they were going to Jackson’s Bistro Bar and Sushi Grill for dinner, a place by the Riverwalk that was recommended to them. It sounded intriguing to us too, so we decided to go there for dinner as well and thanked them for the tip. We wished each other well and said good-bye.
The Tampa Bay River Walk
God has a way of placing people in your life when you need them the most. Rocky’s encouragement meant a lot because he had been through it. I know every case is different, but it was like God sent him to reassure me everything was going to be okay. I was never worried about my surgery. I had been through so much before surgery that I just wanted the operation to be over and be on the road to recovery. However, I wondered what the cut on my neck would look like and how noticeable it would be. If Rocky’s was any indication, I was going to be just fine.
The day had finally come for my surgery. I wasn’t allowed to eat anything after midnight and was only allowed a sip of water to take my morning medications. I had to be there at 10:30 am so I encouraged the girls to go and grab a bite to eat. I figured it would be a long day and the last thing I needed was a hangry daughter. 🙂 Before we left the hotel, we prayed together, and I continued to have that sense of peace God had given me before we left home.
We arrived at Tampa General at 10:15 am and went to the top floor where the Norman Parathyroid Surgery Center is located. These doctors are so dedicated about treating parathyroid disease they purchased the top floor of a hospital and have their own staff and operating rooms. Everyone was friendly and very helpful. It didn’t take long to get into one of those gorgeous hospital gowns that are a fashion statement all on their own. At least green was my color, but seriously, can’t we design a better hospital gown? I digress, but I think we need to address this issue.
The next step was getting an IV. It doesn’t matter who it is trying to get blood from me; my veins are shy. They always have a hard time and the day of surgery was no exception. After blowing out the vein o the top of my hand, they had to try somewhere else. You have to get it where you can from me, and that day it was the side of my hand. After my IV was in place, I was sent down for a Sestamibi Scan. If you would like to know more about this procedure click on the link and it will explain the importance of this test and some of the controversy behind this scan as well.
After this test, they wheeled me back to my room, and the waiting began. I met my anesthesiologist, and he explained what they would be doing and asked me if I had any questions which I didn’t. Dr. Politz and his team of doctors came by to see me and told me they had great pictures of my parathyroid glands. Shortly after that, another assistant from anesthesiology came to put medication in my IV to make me sleepy and prepare me for surgery. They told me it would be like taking two shots of tequila. I have never taken a shot of hard liquor in my life, and I have to say if that is how it makes you feel, I haven’t missed a thing. It sent me for a loop. I don’t remember anything until I woke up from my surgery.
Coming out of the grogginess, I heard the nurse tell me I did a great job and the surgery was a success. As I tried to get my bearings the nurse offered to help me get dressed, then my family could come back to visit me. I got dressed, and it was then I realized I wasn’t in pain. At this point, I didn’t know if it was from being sedated or if my bone pain was indeed gone. The fact is, I didn’t realize how much pain I had learned to live with over the years until I no longer had it. I equate it to being like a toad in boiling water. The temperature is being turned up, but you don’t realize it until you are cooked!
My family came in and told me Dr. Politz said I got the award for the largest tumor of the day. It was the size of a quarter! Think about that being in your neck. I also had another gland that would have had a tumor within the year. They removed that gland as well. I was relieved it was over, and I could begin to get back to a new normal. I was amazed even after the sedation wore off how much better I felt. Dr. Politz came and shared his results with me and the plan for the days ahead which includes a calcium regimen for the next six weeks as my body begins to replace the calcium leached from my bones due to the hyperparathyroidism. It is hard to believe my day at the Norman Parathyroid Center started at 10:30 am, my surgery was at 2:30 pm and I was back to the hotel by 6:30 pm.
My parathyroid tumor: Did you notice a normal level is between 30-80 and mine was 737! Also, a normal parathyroid is usually the size of a grain of rice, however, mine was larger than the size of a quarter!
After I went back to the hotel and rested for a bit, I was ready to eat. I opted for some soft foods and some soup and knew I was on my way to a great recovery. All in all, I was pleased with my choice to go to the Norman Parathyroid Center. The procedure they perform is far better than what I could have received locally because of the surgery was done minimally invasive. I’m thankful for their expertise and dedication of Dr. Politz and his staff. Dr. Politz even called me personally that evening to check on my progress and make sure everything was going well.
Every day since my surgery, life has continued to improve. I did have a sore throat for a few days after the surgery, but that was all. My strength has returned, and my brain fog is lifting. I am back to doing 5k’s, water aerobics, and daily walks and enjoying life without all the previous symptoms. My energy level has dramatically improved, and I haven’t needed one nap! My scar looks like nothing more than a scratch and continues to look better every day.
This is one month from surgery. It looks like a scratch!
No matter your issue, one thing I would like to encourage each of you to do is to be an advocate for yourself. If you know someone who isn't capable of advocating for themselves, be their voice. It is essential to understand what your options are and what will work best for you or your loved one. Share on XIf you know someone who isn’t capable of advocating for themselves, be their voice. It is essential to understand what your options are and what will work best for you or your loved one. Pray and listen to your gut and follow through with how you believe God is leading you. God never disappoints!
I want to thank God for being with me every step of the way and walking with me in this dark and challenging season. In His presence, I found my greatest strength! I’m thankful for His promises, love, and attention to the details of my life.
Also, I want to thank my husband who demonstrated his love for me every day even through his health issue. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge my beautiful daughter Alicia for her love, support and caring heart in walking with me during this journey and my sweet and dear friend, Tonia who dropped everything to fly to be with both of us.
I know countless people were praying for me and I am eternally grateful. Prayer is a precious gift we give to each other. His Word tells us in Matthew 18:20:
” For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” All of you who prayed for me were with me, I felt it, and I know your prayers are what gave me the extra push to stay strong and to keep fighting.
We never know what is going to happen in our lives, but whatever happens, we can trust God will always be with us through every situation, even when it is hard! What a beautiful promise!
Thanks for all the information! I am so glad your surgery went well!
Hi, Nicole!
You are welcome! Thank You for your good wishes! I’m feeling great!
I had no idea that thyroid and hyperthyroid were unrelated! You learn something new every day.
Hi, Mar!
Only God can make us so intimately and knows our bodies and how they need to run with a fine line of everything!
What a blessing to have such a wonderful support system during this time! My mom has recently had testing done on her thyroid, but I had no idea there was another gland behind that! Good to know!
Hi, Mariah!
It was a HUGE blessing for sure. I hope your mom is doing well and received the answers she needed. I had no idea there was a gland behind there either. I’m glad those silly glands are taken care of now. 🙂
So happy to hear that your surgery ended successfully! What a journey you’ve been on.
Hi, Erin!
It has been a journey, but thankful for the great results! Thanks for your encouragement.
Happy to know that the surgery was a success and they were able to remove the growth.
Hi, Turtle!
Thank You for your kind words! I’m happy for that growth to be out of there too! I’m moving onward and upward!
Wow, what an amazing story, I’m so glad you met people to support you on this journey.
Hi, Helen!
God places people exactly where we need them. I am grateful for all those who have touched my life through this journey.
It’s amazing how God works to make things happen!
Hi, Tamara!
I don’t know what I would do without Him. He truly gave me the wisdom to seek out the best care possible in this matter.
This is my first time hearing of this condition. I am so glad that you are ok. I must go back and read your previous posts regarding this. Stay well!
Hi, Melissa!
I had no idea either. I am doing great and my healing has been super. I feel the best I have in a long time and I didn’t even know how bad I was feeling. I would encourage anyone who has the symptoms to get their parathyroid checked. Thanks for your kind words!
OH I’m so glad you’re doing better! Wow 5K’s after surgery! Congrats!!! That’s awesome!!! Very impressive!
Hi, Shana!
I am doing much better and yes I completed my 5K! I didn’t run the whole thing, but I did it with a great sense of accomplishment.
Your post are always helpful.
Sharing it on twitter too x
Hi, Marina!
Thank You for your kind words. I appreciate the share on Twitter too. I love all your information on make-up too and the trends! Blessings to you!
What an inspiring post of strength and faith. I’m so glad you’re okay and that you were such an advocate for yourself in getting this done. I didn’t know about hyperparathyroidism either so it’s wonderful how you’re educating others!
Hi, Deb!
I’m a firm believer that God doesn’t waste a thing and if I can educate or help another person who may be suffering it will have been worth it. I have learned that being an advocate for yourself or others is very important because life is worth it.
Praising God with you on your successful surgery and healing! God is good! Praying you continue to heal and grow healthier by His grace, sister! 🙂
Hi, Susan!
Yes, let’s do the praise dance together! Thank You for your encouragement and kind words. I am getting healthier every day!
“ Rocky’s encouragement meant a lot because he had been through it.“ I genuinely believe this is why we go through so many of the journey is that we do – so that we can support and encourage people going through things that we have already experienced.
Hi, Erin!
I agree with you 100%. My prayer is that God would use this experience to bring honor and glory to Himself!
Thank you for sharing your happy ending to this chapter with us! How amazing that one little gland can cause so much trouble, and one short surgery can cure it! Praise God for your recovery!
Hi, Jennifer!
Yes, isn’t it usually the smallest things that can give us the biggest problems? I am happy to be cured and moving on with life. God is good!
This is great information. I wasn’t aware of the symptoms of this or how to get it diagnosed. Thanks!
Hi, Holly!
Thanks for reading all the information. I know there was a lot, but my heart was to help those who didn’t know about this disease.
I’m glad your surgery went well and for all the blessings you received during this time.
Hi, Danielle!
Thank You and I am very thankful for all God has done for me on this journey.
Wonderful news to hear that the surgery was a success! I’m so glad you are feeling better.
Hi, Theresa!
Thank You! I feel much better and every day I am stronger!
That is a pretty impressive looking tumor. It almost looks like an ear. I hope you feel better now.
Hi, Rachel!
I was told I won the prize for the largest tumor of the day. My friend thought it looked like a little chicken breast. It does look like an ear with a bad sunburn. 🙂
I’ve been struggling for 2 years, back and forth to the dr only to be told nothing is wrong, maybe depression, maybe my weight. It took a friend stepping in to advocate for me to get to the bottom of my thyroid trouble. We all need an advocate medically!
Hi, Tiffany!
I’m so happy to hear that you had a wonderful friend who advocated on your behalf. I hope you are feeling better and getting stronger every day. We know our bodies best! It is important to find a doctor who is willing to listen and act on what we tell them.
this is really interesting!I’ve had hyperthydrodism since i was in high school!
Hi, Heather!
I’m sorry you have to deal with that issue. I have heard it can be difficult to regulate and your symptoms are difficult too. I pray you have great success in treating this condition.
Dearest Sheila,
Thank you for sharing your journey with hyperparathyroidism! This post, along with the previous two, will be a blessing to many for years to come. I’ve already shared with one person that I thought she should ask her Doctor about this because of symptoms she has had for several years.
I’m so thankful you are feeling so much better!
To God be the glory!
Dearest Toni,
My prayer is no one will have to go through this ordeal, but if they do this will trigger conversation which may help others. I am so grateful to be on the mend and feeling better every day. I’m glad you shared this information with your friend and I hope whatever is wrong she gets to the bottom on it. I look forward to seeing you soon! To God be the glory!
I really didn’t even know this glad existed! I’m glad you had a successful surgery!
Hi, Patricia!
Thank You! I’m glad my surgery was successful too!
Incredible Sheila! So glad to hear how the Lord went before you & He hemmed you in from behind in total protection. Such an inspiring true life story. Thank you for sharing.
Hi, Sher!
It was wonderful to spend time with you. Thank You for making time for us. We all had a great time and the burgers were great! You are right God has hemmed me in and my prayer is if my story helps one person, it will be worth it! Blessings to you sweet friend!
This is such an inspiring testimony, Sheila! I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw the pic of the tumor! It was so big! And way above normal parameters! Thank God you’re doing ok now!
Hi, Andres!
Thank You so much for your kind words! Yes, it was large in comparison to what is normal. I am feeling much better and gaining strength all the time.
What an amazing testimony! Thanks for sharing this, Sheila.
Hi, Heather!
It has been a year for sure, but God has proved His faithfulness time and time again. Thank You for always encouraging me.