Haven't posted in a long time, but thought I would to give encouragement to those with non-invasive bladder cancer. I recently had my annual cystoscopy and remain all-clear since my last (and only) recurrence 12 years ago. Initial tumor was 14 years ago, followed by recurrence of same type (low grade papillary) two years later. I had a full course of BCG, which at that time was 2.5 years. Part way through the treatment the BCG concentration was reduced because of side effects. Last year and this when I had the annual cystoscopy the urologist said I really didn't need annual check-ups any longer since I had been cancer-free for so long and that I could stop altogether. As an interim step, I'm going to go to a 2-year schedule, which he said a lot of others in my situation opt to do before stopping check-ups altogether. He noted that even if I did have a recurrence down the line, it was highly unlikely to be high grade.
Wishing all you other blc "warriors" well!
Ann
Small TA Grade 1, May-06; recur (2 tiny), same, June-08; TURBTs both times. BCG begun July-08, dosage to 1/3rd May-10, completed treatment December-11. All clear since 2008.
