Melanoma. Wide excision and Sentinel node biopsy

Hi Granny Glad….I think you have come to the right place in terms of support and help in understanding they myriad of terms and the new vocabulary that needed to navigate this type of cancer….following my diagnosis in July and having gone through the surgery you are preparing for I am a lot more informed just by having linked up on here…of course everyone’s experience is very different but I think it’s good to know there are people on here who will offer support and kindness…my own experience of the procedure was very positive I have just found the waiting in between procedures and results very difficult to deal with and I think that’s what many people will say…I have just accessed the BUPA counselling which is funded by Macmillan to help deal with some of the emotional aspects of this…..I’m sure others will respond to you who are much more knowledgeable than I am but in the meantime take care x

Thanks so much for your reply. I really appreciate hearing from fellow patients. The waiting in between appointments is stressful but I’m aware there are so many people in worse situations!  Onward and upward. Thanks again for replying to me. Granny Glad

Hi Granny Glad and a very warm welcome to the online community

I'm sorry to read that you've recently been diagnosed with melanoma but, as IvysMum has said, you've come to the right place to ask questions, share experiences and get support.

I've had both the procedures you're waiting for a date for and I'm happy to share my experience with you if you want to know the ins and outs of the operations.

It would be great if you could pop something about your diagnosis and treatment into your profile as it really helps others when answering or looking for someone with a similar pathway. It also means that you don't have to keep repeating yourself. To do this click on your username and then select 'Profile'. You can amend it at any time and if you're not sure what to write you can take a look at mine by clicking on my username.

x

Thanks for your reply Latchbrook. I have read your profile as suggested which is so helpful. I will try and put something together. I’m currently sat waiting for an ECG at hospital having had further blood test. Maybe it won’t be too long before I get a date for next procedure!  Regards GG

Hi Granny Glad,  I'm sorry to hear about your diagnosis hon.  I was diagnosed in April this year and was extremely upset at the diagnosis was we all are I guess.  I spent a week in tears before telling my 21 yr old daughter about it. Of course I never do things straightforwardly so a brain aneurysm and round shaped lymph gland in my neck showed up on CT which delayed the WLE and SNLB until July.

I just tried to keep busy doing normal everyday things, cried occasionally and avoided googling melanoma.   As a nurse I already knew too much!

A day at a time is best, sleep as much as possible, eat healthy, ask on here about anything that worries you plus the skin specialist nurses are usually really supportive and caring.  Take care x

Thanks for your encouragement. I know I’m not alone and that makes such a difference. Regards GG