My name is Philip James.
In August 2013, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer, leading to a complete thyroidectomy and removal of lymph nodes. Unfortunately, my laryngeal nerve was injured during surgery, resulting in vocal cord paralysis. Shortly after, I underwent radioactive iodine treatment and required a follow-up surgery for a laryngeal implant due to the paralyzed vocal cord, a consequence of the initial surgery’s poor execution.
My surgeon at UCLA assured me I had a so-called “good cancer.” However, he never provided honest information about the low death rate of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) and the potential risks and complications of thyroid removal. He used fear to rush me into the operating room, making me believe PTC would kill me. If the surgeon had been honest and informed me about all the risks and problems patients face due to thyroid removal, I would have chosen to live with the cancer rather than undergo a surgery that ultimately damaged my quality of life.
In the months following the surgery, I experienced mental confusion, loss of muscle mass, metabolic changes, forgetfulness, and shortness of breath. The surgery and the surgical errors significantly impacted my quality of life. Vocal cord paralysis caused airway obstruction, hindering my physical activity and derailing my professional speaking career.
While participating in local thyroid cancer support groups, I discovered many patients facing similar challenges, struggling to find adequate support and resources.
Driven to learn more, I sought out the most recognized thyroid specialists, those who think beyond the norm and are up-to-date on the latest thyroid treatments and medical innovations.
This journey led to the creation of the Doctor Thyroid podcast, a platform designed to provide easy access to the best information on thyroid health, presented by top doctors, all from the convenience of your phone.
I describe my work using the concept of ‘tonglen,’ using my pain and hardship to help others. Through the Doctor Thyroid platform, I aim to offer resources that can improve your quality of life, provide the best available information, and help you make informed health decisions.
Would you like to hear about a particular topic in an upcoming podcast? Email me, and I will invite a thyroid doctor to address your concerns.
If you enjoy the Doctor Thyroid interviews, please rate and review them on iTunes by clicking on the podcast symbol below.
Wishing you good health and perseverance.
Sincerely,
Philip
philipjames@docthyroid.com
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