Thyroid problems - HELP!

Hello everyone - I finally found the new board.

I recently had an ultrasound which showed multi-nodules on my thyroid. The Endocrinologist is scheduling me for a FNA biopsy because he says there is some calcium showing on the ultrasound. I have noticed the nodule for many years and never thought anything about it (no symptoms). The size hasn't changed, and I DO intend to have the FNA biopsy, but my question is how many years can one go with a nodule that remains the same, no symptoms, and it be cancer? Also, can hypothyrodism cause enlarged growth of the thyroid because I've had cold hands/feet, and thinning hair for many years as well (at least 7 or 8+ years)??? My Mother had a goiter (no cancer) and she lived up to 80+ yrs old. I realize family history doesn't mean I wont have thyroid cancer, but just wanted to provide as much info as possible. I am EXtremely nervous and scared! My gynecologist has felt the nodule during routine annual exams, and he's never showed much concern because it's remained the same when he feels it. Has anyone had experience with nodules present for years where there was calcium and it NOT show cancer. Is calcium on the ultrasound a more probable diagnosis for cancer? If so, please share your experience?

THANKS MUCH!