Hi thanks for letting me join, I was diagnosed with stage 2b melanoma in early June after a mole was taken off my back , life has been a roller coaster since then , I had a biopsy last week on my lymph nodes in my armpit , the nurse said she could see lumps on my lymph nodes which was concerning ,and I am waiting for the results , I have an appointment with a plastic surgeon next week to discuss a second procedure on my back under general anesthesia and to also remove the suspect lymph nodes , . I find all the waiting really frightening and every time I talk to close family and friends they tell me don't worry it'll be fine , but I don't feel reassured by that even though I know they are trying to be positive, . I find a lot of the time I am deep in my own negative thoughts , for example how do I explain to my teenage kids without terrifying them , how do I explain to my employers , just totally overwhelming and feel like I've got a huge mountain to climb ! Is this normal or am I overthinking everything? Emotionally confused .
Hi FredF and welcome to the Online Community but so sorry to hear about your Melanoma diagnosis. I have been on my blood cancer journey for over 22 years now so totally understand the waiting and the various problems that have to be dealt with surrounding a cancer diagnosis.
A cancer diagnosis can be very challenging but talking with others who are walking the same type of cancer journey (my one is completely different) will help you navigate this difficult time.
The New to Community is like the Community Reception area and as there are many cancer types so likewise the Community has many cancer specific support groups and I see you have already joined our supportive Melanoma group, this will be a good place to connect with folks on the same cancer treatment pathway.
To go to the group just click on the link above then introduce yourself by putting up a ‘New Thread’ or hit the box with the X on the top right (phones), you could just copy and paste the text from this your first post. You can also join in with existing ‘Discussions’ by clicking on 'reply'.
It’s always good to talk so do call the Macmillan Support Services on 0808 808 00 00 - most services are open 8am to 8pm, 7 days a week Clicking here to see what is available. This service provides lots of cancer information, support, financial guidance or just a listening ear.
We also have Cancer Nurse Team in our Ask an Expert section, but do allow two working days for replies from our expert team.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
All the very best.
