Carrie M

My son was 26 years old, living 3,000 miles away and attending graduate school, when he was diagnosed with testicular cancer. After noticing a lump in his testicle, he made an appointment with his primary physician who ordered an ultrasound. A few days later he received an email containing the results of his ultrasound, "highly suspicious, malignancy likely". I don't know what his reaction was because I wasn't there. I wasn't there to reassure him, hold him or cry with him.

My husband and I were on the next plane. We were there for his appointment with the oncologist, and stayed with him while he underwent surgery. His surgery was successful with no evidence of metastasis. He did not require chemotherapy or radiation. His physical recovery has been rapid; he returned to school quickly.

It's difficult to say how he's doing emotionally. For now, he chooses not to talk about his diagnosis. I think he's trying to wrap his head around our "new normal", we all are. I remind him that I will come if he needs me, "just say the word", and for now that's enough. I'll continue to worry, because that's what moms do.