Hello
I just got a phone call the other day with my results from a mole I had removed in my arm that the gp had referred me for and have been told it is early stage melanoma.
It is just as well I had it checked as I went to the doctor about another thing what I thought was a mole that changed but from the biopsy they took it thankfully was just a wart.
I had a baby (my 2nd, I also have a 4 year old) 3 months ago and it was a difficult pregnancy resulting in having an early birth at 33 weeks.
My 4 year old was also an early birth (at 24 weeks) and I had a challenging few years in terms of managing his health but thankfully he is doing well as is the baby.
Now I've found out I have this melanoma I've also found a further 2 moles which look suspicious in terms of shape and have changed (since pregnancy might I say) and I've now to get a biopsy of these.
I'm to get surgery on my arm for a wide excision to take more tissue incase there is anything left from what they already took away.
I'm in shock but relieved it's stage 1, but I can't help but have everything going through my head and worrying about my children and being healthy for them.
I have a supportive partner and family but I wanted to join this community to be able to connect with others who may be feeling or going through the same. It almost doesn't feel real, something you don't expect to happen and I'm only 37.
I don't sunbathe and I'm fair so I have always put on factor 50 when there's been hot weather. I have no family history of melanoma.
Hi Rose3 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)….. but I do see that you have already joined 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 please click on the link below
…… then once the group page opens 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.
