CT,
I know you probably have lots of resources, but I went through the exact same situation as you 9 years ago. I'm sure you know that papillary cancer is the 'best' thyroid cancer to get. The surgery is fairly straightforward. I stayed one night in the hospital, at least thats how it's done here in Montreal. (Trivia: Michael Douglas came all the way to Montreal to my hospital to get treated for his throat cancer a few years ago. So I knew I was in good hands). The radioactive iodine is a bit harder. You must starve your body of iodine so that any iodine loving cells really absorb the radioactive iodine, which in turn kills any remaining cancer cells. It's a tough few weeks with no synthroid until you are ready for the radioactive treatment. I had no weight issues, or pouch issues, but boy was I tired! And a bit miserable. It feels weird to take the iodine pill because they bring you into one of those "radioactive" rooms. The doctor won't touch the pill, they don't want you to touch the pill with your hands either, but you have to swallow it. Then you are considered radioactive for a bit. You're not supposed to spend too much time close to people. Especially little kids. And they tell you to flush twice every time you pee. Sadly I had to go through the radiation procedure twice, as they could still detect cells my body.
I get an annual neck/throat ultrasound, and blood tests. I've been really lucky with my doses of synthyroid, never have any problems with that.
Best of luck for the easiest possible outcome. We worry about our "other" problems so much, it seems unfair to have something to add to our plate.
P.s. I had swollen lymph nodes too and no cancer was found there. See, there's hope!!!
c-jay