A fit lifestyle also includes occasional check-ups. "Together with my husband, I go to Prescan every three years for preventive examinations. We have been there a few times now, it just feels good to know how your health is doing."
Suspicious Spot
Nothing has ever been found with her husband, but Femke was found to have something noticeable twice. “About six years ago, the radiologist from Prescan saw a cyst on my ovary. I was already experiencing quite a bit of abdominal pain, so I was relieved that the cause was found and that Prescan took it seriously. The cyst has since been removed and I no longer have any complaints.”
In the summer of 2023, Femke and her husband went to Prescan again. “We chose the complete examination, which includes a blood test and fitness test. I also underwent an MRI scan.” Nothing unusual was found with her husband, but the radiologist saw a suspicious spot on Femke's right lung.
A bolt from the blue
“The outcome was very shocking this time,” says Femke. “But I really appreciated the way it was presented. The radiologist didn't beat around the bush and said that a spot was seen on my right lung that needed to be checked.” It came as a thunderbolt from the blue. “I was shocked beyond belief; I never saw that coming. I did have some breathing difficulties, but I thought it might be a lingering effect from a coronavirus infection or cold. But with these symptoms, I would never have gone to a general practitioner.”
With the MRI scan results, Femke went to her general practitioner, who then referred her to the hospital. “A new scan was performed there, confirming Prescan’s findings. It turned out to be a rare form of cancer. A malignant, but large-cell tumor was growing slowly in my lung. Fortunately, there were no metastases.”
Recovery
Together with the doctors in the hospital, a treatment plan was initiated, and it soon became clear that Femke needed surgery to remove the tumor. “It wasn't a pleasant operation, but everything went well,” says Femke. She is currently recovering from the surgery.
To access the tumor, her ribs and diaphragm were bruised during the operation. “That bothered me for a long time, it's an unpleasant feeling. I'm also not back to my old self in terms of fitness,” she says. “When I walk up the stairs, I really have to catch my breath. But it will all get better. I expect to be back to my old self in a while.”
Relief
In the coming period, Femke will have several follow-ups at the hospital. “The doctors don't know how the tumor developed, but there's no reason to believe I'm at a higher risk in the future than others. Things are looking good now.”
Looking back on the past months, Femke feels mainly relief. “Apparently, you can carry something in your body that can cause trouble without realizing it. I am incredibly thankful that I found out through Prescan and could take action. I know there is sometimes resistance to preventive care, but for me, it might have been my salvation.”
Perspective on Health Changed
The examination at Prescan and its outcome made Femke think. “I went to Prescan to hear that nothing was wrong, that I am simply healthy. When the outcome is different, it's quite a shock. I've never been confronted with illness before, but it has changed my perspective on health.”
Femke's birthday is coming up, and she's going to celebrate it extensively. “I used to dislike getting older, but you'll never hear me say that again. If you manage to age healthily, it's truly a gift. Many people don't realize this, but it is indeed the case.”
