I had what I thought was a basal cell carcinoma removed from my forehead in June 22, it wasn't it was a melanoma. A subsequent wide excision was completed in September 22 and I thought/assumed that was that. I should say I'd had a 40+ year history of BCC's so I tended to be slightly indifferent to them, but this one was in a different league. Over the course of the next 18 months it spread to lymph nodes in my neck resulting in a neck dissection and parotidectomy in February this year, I'm still waiting on the final results but working on the theory I'd have been called if there was anything wrong.
Yesterday I had immunotherapy session 1 of 9 with Keytruda, I didn't know what to expect during or after but surprisingly I've had no side effects what so ever, is it too soon? am I just lucky.
Hi Lovegardening and a very warm welcome to the Community but sorry to hear about your diagnoses.
Navigating the cancer journey can be such a stressful and challenging time but getting support from people who have walked the ‘exact same' cancer journey can help a lot. (I have a completely different cancer).
The New to Community is like our reception desk where we look to try and direct you to the best part of the Community for you to get support. The Community is actually divided into dedicated Cancer Support Groups (Discussion Rooms) so can I recommend you join and post in our dedicated Melanoma support group. This will be a safe place to talk to others with a similar diagnosis, treatment experience, to ask questions and get support.
To connect in with the group click on this link 
…… then once the group page opens click in the [Black - Click to Join - Banner] that appears at the bottom of the page and this will then confirm that you have joined the group.
When you are ready……. you can introduce yourself by putting up your very own post by clicking [+ Create new post] or [ + ] in the top right of the group page.
You can copy and paste the text from this post into your new post.
You may find it helpful to call the Macmillan Support Line open 8am-8pm (timings may differ across services) 7 days a week on 0808 808 00 00. This service provides cancer information, practical information, emotional support, benefits/financial guidance or just a listening ear. We also have our Ask an Expert section but do allow 3 working days for a reply.
Talking to people face to face can be very helpful so do check to see if you have any Local Macmillan Support in your area, do also check for a local Maggie's Centre as these folks are amazing and give support to all the family.
Do get back to me if you need further help navigating the community.
