Good morning all,
I am new to the group although sadly not new to cancer.
I was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma on my right arm back in 2013. Following a wide excision and SLNB it was confirmed that it had spread to my lymph nodes. I opted for a complete lymph node clearance of my right axillary and after a short adjustment period and some physio I have been lucky to have spent the last 10 years cancer and symptom free.
In April this year I had a superficial tumour removed from my bladder. Histology confirmed this as melanoma and after a PET scan a further lesion has been found on my right scapula. I am awaiting an MRI of my head and liver to rule out further metastatic spread. Looking down the barrel of surgery and/or immunotherapy.
Despite some scary times ahead of me I feel positive and strong to tackle whatever cancer wants to throw at me. I have a fantastic support network of loved ones, friends and work colleagues.
I wanted to post this on the New Member group as a story of hope to those with newly diagnosed melanoma. You still have many happy years ahead of you. Take each step as it comes and try not to fall down the rabbit hole of thinking three steps ahead. Nothing has happened until it happens so there's no point worrying about it.
I have read some amazing stories of courage from people with stage 4 melanoma in a similar situation to myself and it has given me strength that I have got this and I still have an amazing life ahead of me.
Stay strong all
X
Hi Chris39113 and welcome to the Online Community but I am sorry to hear about your diagnoses but good to read your story.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a challenging time but giving and getting support from others who are dealing with the ‘exact same' cancer type can help a lot.
I see that you have already joined our dedicated Melanoma support group. Why not copy and paste your post in there as their will be people on the same path who would love to read your post
To go to the group click on the “Bold Link” I have created above then once the group page opens you can put up your own post and introduce yourself to the group by clicking “+new” or “+” in the top right next to the group title. You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post. You can also scroll through other members posts and click “Reply” to get involved.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
