Good morning to everyone ... I just want to say hello and tell you a little about my journey so far. I am reeling with shock from my cancer diagnosis 
I am a 54yr old lady ... in 2019 my thumb nail developed a ridge and was somewhat irritating, then it started to split which was when I visited my GP in February 2020, he told me not to worry because it was 'just a split nail' ... I contacted my GP several times as the split just got worse and they finally referred me to a dermatologist. Fast forward to now, almost 3 years later - I had the thumb nail removed and biopsy done on 1st February 2022, then was called to see the dermatologist last week when he told me that they were shocked to discover that I had subungual acral lentiginous melanoma, which is 5.3mm thick, pT4a, Stage 2b. I have my first full body CT scan with contrast tomorrow, head MRI scan with contrast on Tuesday next week (15th March) and then see the plastic surgeon the next day, on Wednesday to discuss amputating my thumb and whatever other treatments I need.
What a shock! How will this end, who knows ... at the moment I am worrying about every ache and pain I have, and next Wednesday can't come soon enough, I feel like I'm in limbo. Today I am working in my garden, a welcome distraction for me. How do people distract themselves from this rotten rollercoaster ride? I was awake again on and off all night just thinking of every scenario and worrying about talking to my loved ones, particularly the grandchildren
I am blessed to have a very close family that are supporting me so much, my Mum and Dad are so sad .... it's hard but my Dad has drummed a saying in to me all of my life 'I can, I will and I shall' - just thinking of that will give me strength!
Hi Deb14art and welcome to the Online Community although I am so sorry to see you joining us. Your diagnosis indeed must have come as a shock. This is such a very stressful and challenging time for you but I do hope you find the community a safe place to get support and ask your questions.
I have been on my incurable blood cancer journey for over 22 years now and the one tool that helped me navigate the roller coaster was a notebook. This is the place to dump all the thoughts, questions, fears. thoughts....... especially at silly-o'clock.
Then the book goes to your appointments and you check off your questions and also keep a record of what is said, contact names and numbers...... but most importantly the back pages are your dream pages...... yes there is life after cancer so don't lets this moment in time rob you of your future dreams.
The New to Community is like our reception desk where you can be signpost to our various cancer support groups and other services. Do see that you have joined and posted in our Melanoma group. This will be a safe place to talk to others who may have a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
The Macmillan Support Line is open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00 or via Webchat and Email too. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. You may also find our Ask an Expert section helpful but do allow a few working days for a reply.
To find information covering diagnosis, treatments and pages covering most types of cancers check our Online Information and Support Section.
Talking to people face to face when on a cancer journey (patient or family) can be very helpful but during these strange times it’s not that available but do check to see if any Local Macmillan Support in your area has opened up. Do also check out for a local Maggie's Centre in your area as these folks are amazing.
Always around if you need further help in navigating the community.
All the very best ((hugs))
Hello Snowangel
Firstly, I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis and hope that my reply will be helpful and re-assuring, I remember the early diagnosis days well and know how upset and worried you may be - I was diagnosed as pT4a, Stage 2b, Breslow thickness 5.3mm.
Following my treatment I am generally very well thank you.
I had surgery to amputate my thumb in April 2022 and then Sentinel Lymph node biopsy in May 2022 (clear thankfully).
I have adapted and got used to the loss of my thumb (it was my left thumb on my non-dominant hand). I am a garden designer and landscaper, so it is a physical job. I now have 6 monthly skin checks with my consultant and 6 monthly MRI head scans and body CT scans.
I hope this is helpful and re-assuring. Sending your lots of positive hugs - stay strong lovely.
Best wishes, Deb
Deb ... 'I can ... I will ... and I shall' 
