Hi all after recently diagnosed with stage 2a melanoma after my horse stood on my toe 6 years ago I'm new to all of this. I work in the NHS sector and have supported friends and family through cancer. Have appointment for toe amputation next week and I've decided against sentinel lymph node biopsy after great research. Never felt so alone but have spoken to people on a very difficult subject to help me feel as normal as I can be. But my goodness doesn't your mind go into overdrive as every lump and bump aches and pains send me into meltdown, sorry for my moan, this was misdiagnosed last year and sent away feeling I'd wasted people's time. If you feel something isn't right keep banging on that door until someone opens it
Hi Siren
You're right that every slight twinge you feel you immediately think it must be linked to your cancer. The chances are that it isn't and you wouldn't have even noticed it pre-cancer.
Do you mind me asking why you've decided not to have a sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB)? The reason I ask is because whether to have one or not is quite a frequent topic within the group so it would be helpful for others in future to read about your reasoning.
I hope everything goes well with your operation next week. I know there've been others here before you who have had a toe amputated and I'm sure they'd be happy to answer any questions you might have.
Wishing you all the best
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
I've decided against it because I'm concerned regarding infection, leg swelling, which isn't reversible, general anaesthetic, reaction to the dye. I work for the NHS, as well as having very active llifestyle, have horses, dogs and sheep ect, so want to be able to continue to be as active, without oedema . It states that there's no evidence you live longer if you have it, so for me it was a person choice, and I've given it a lot of thought, but I'd support someone if they wanted to have it. I've spoken to people who have had it and had complications, I appreciate it's a small amount but knowing my luck I've decided against it. Tough choice tbh 
Thanks for being so honest with your reasoning Siren
You are quite right that it is a tough decision to make especially as it's only another diagnostic aid and not a treatment. After weighing up the pros and cons I did decide to have it and was fortunate not to experience any side effects.
Wishing you all the best next week.
"Never regret a day in your life, good days give you happiness, bad days give you experience"
