Gingernut and LR,
Perhaps I should have elaborated. My wife's relative did have his doctors opinions confirmed by having a biopsy as did my father. Don't wish to put you off but he, my father and myself all agreed that the biopsy was the worst part of the diagnosis/treatment package. It was uncomfortable rather than painfull but afterwards I felt awful for the next 24 hours. I certainly didn't feel that bad after the op.
LR - Have a check on the website in one of my earlier posts, get as much info as you can - knowledge dispels fear. You've already got over the biggest hurdle by talking about it and going to the doctor.
Even at 68, (same age as my fathers diagnosis), it's still treatable/manageable. Don't leave it until the point that it decides to go elsewhere.