1,042 — Being Diagnosed With and Treated for Cancer

Cancer is a serious disease, but you need to see a doctor before thinking you have it. Learn why in this episode.
Slow dialog: 1:32
Explanations: 3:42
Fast dialog: 16:09
Vivian: Do you see this lump? I’m sure I have cancer.
Guy: Don’t jump to conclusions. It could be something completely benign.
Vivian: I know it’s not benign. It’s got to be a malignant tumor. The cancer is probably at stage two or three already. The oncologist will probably want to start me on radiation and chemotherapy right away.
Guy: You haven’t seen a single doctor yet and you’re already planning for the worst.
Vivian: Of course I am. I want to be mentally prepared for the bad news. The doctor will do a biopsy, but I already know what the results will be. I’m just hoping the prognosis will be good.
Guy: I think you’re getting way ahead of yourself. It could be something completely harmless.
Vivian: I can’t afford to believe that. I have a family history of cancer. My father was diagnosed when he was 56 years old. It’s true he’s been in remission and hasn’t had a relapse yet, but you never know with cancer.
Guy: That’s right, you never know. You could live to the age of 90.
Vivian: You can fool yourself as much as you like, but I have to face facts – especially as sick as I am.

Script by Dr. Lucy Tse