Natasha, so sorry to have you here! Your diagnosis is about the best that it could be, however. It is important to know if your uro got really good samples during the TURB (removal and biopsy procedure) and sent them for pathology. The pathology report (which you should get) should indicate that he got enough tissue near the tumor to ascertain that it was indeed localized and had not extended into the underlying tissues.
If it is, as first diagnosed, "Low grade papillary urothelial carcinoma, NON Invasive" you are very lucky. However, there are some things to remember. One of the really tricky things about bladder cancer is that it likes to return. That is why your urologist wants to see you every three months for a cystoscopy. You and he/she will become very good friends!!! That way, should it return, he will be right on top of it. It is very important to keep these appointments.
I wouldn't disagree with Maree that eating right is always a good idea. However, there is no good research that proves that diet can CURE bladder cancer. Your tumor has probably been there, although microscopic, for a long time. If diet were a factor, you would have to have been on it many years ago! If you find that certain foods cause you problems (acid, spicy) then you can modify your diet accordingly.
My first diagnosis was just like yours. My urologist did a second biopsy about six weeks later (this is often considered good medical practice, since on the second try he better knows exactly where the problem areas are) and found a much more serious situation, CIS (carcinoma in situ). I had BCG treatments,, which are more effective for CIS, and am now in my sixth year, cancer free. My cystos are down to one a year!!!
Wishing you really good luck..and feel free to ask any questions you wish.
Sara Anne
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