03/10/2025
A year ago, I went for a long-overdue regular check-up. I always went to the doctor when sick and kept up with gyno/derm visits—but a full physical? It had been years.
When my blood results came back, my TSH (thyroid function) were off. An ultrasound revealed two large nodules—big enough for a biopsy.
🚨 “Don’t worry,” they said. “Nodules are common—only 5% are cancerous.”
💉 Biopsy came back suspicious → 30% risk.
🔬 Further testing → Atypical → 75% risk.
At this point, I lost it. I was scared. The next step? Surgery. They needed to remove at least half my thyroid to know for sure. And then… I had to wait 4–6 months.
In February, I had my first-ever surgery (besides wisdom teeth). Right before they took me back, I started crying so scared. Then they gave me something to relax, and next thing I knew, I was in the OR talking about how much I HATE oatmeal cookies. 😂 Then... lights out.
✨ When I woke up, it was a huge relief. The surgery was over.
✨ Recovery was mostly smooth sailing, with a couple of rough days.
✨ Then, at my post-op appointment, the news I had been waiting for:
💖 Noninvasive follicular thyroid neoplasm with papillary-like nuclear features (NIFTP).
💖 Meaning… NOT cancer. Nothing further needed! 🙌
This experience changed me. It made me realize how important our health is and how we never truly know what someone is going through. I didn’t want to share until I knew the outcome—but I hope this inspires someone else to:
✔️ Go to the doctor regularly—don’t put it off.
✔️ Advocate for your health. If something feels off, push for answers.
✔️ Take care of your body. Move it, fuel it well, and treat it with love. 💕
The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland at the base of your neck. Butterflies symbolize transformation, growth, and new beginnings. Now? I have half a wing. But even with half a wing, I’m still flying. 🦋😭
Today, I’m stronger and healthier than I was a year ago. Probably the best health I’ve been in years. I believe this happened to prevent something worse down the line and push me toward becoming my best, healthiest self.
Now that this is behind me… I’m ready to crush life and enjoy every single day. With ❤️ - Alice Ann