I’ve been poked and prodded, sliced and diced; flesh and fluids have been analyzed. The cancer in my body has been categorized and sub-categorized. And finally I’ve been given odds that I can take, if not to the bank, at least to a bookie. My chances look pretty good.

The original diagnosis I mentioned in my last post was essentially correct—follicular lymphoma. But what I didn’t know then was whether it had spread from my neck, where I could feel swollen lymph nodes. It hasn’t. It is classified technically Stage 1A—as good as it gets.

Follicular lymphoma is one of the most common types of cancer, particularly in North America. However, few are diagnosed as early as I was. While this kind of slow-growing cancer is generally considered incurable, when caught at this early stage there is actually about a 50% chance of a cure.

I will be getting radiation treatment sometime before the end of the year. Side effects should be minimal, and I don’t expect to have to make any adjustments to future plans, at least for the time being.

Tomorrow is Canadian Thanksgiving. It is always nice to have something in particular to be thankful for. Usually I am thankful that I, as a Canadian/American, get two Thanksgivings every year (and that Faye goes to the trouble to cook two traditional meals). This year, in addition to that, I am thankful in particular that my diagnosis is not worse than it is, and in general for the Canadian Healthcare System.

Speaking of plans, Faye and I are going to India this winter. Unless something changes I don’t intend to write any more about this particular health issue. I can’t promise I won’t write about other health issues in India, but we’ll hope for the best.