On 2/5/2007 Traci wrote:
Hello ! I am Traci and we have a high risk melanoma history in our family. I am asking anyone out there who knows information about rectal melanoma my sister has had stage 1 melanoma removed from her wrist a year and a half ago(a month after our Mother died of it) now she has a spot on her rectum the size of a half dollar soon to be removed doctors tell her its likely nothing to worry about but she wonders whats going on what hope can we give her if it is? help anyone? thanks
Hi Traci,
I had my first melanoma removed in 1995. I was told no worries. The seecond was removed in 1997 again....no worries we got it all. Both were on my back dangerously near my spinal column, In 2003, I was diagnosed with not one but 3 different metastic spreads via lymph nodes to various parts of my body. I have done chemo and radiation and surgery. I got my latest scan results yesterday and was advised that yes there is another of the blasted things growing on my spine between the 1st and 2nd cerebral vertebrae. My best advice is for your sister to get a second or even a third opinion if needed. My oncologist has told me that one round of chemo after the 2nd was removed would probably have saved me from all that I have been through. Granted my case is rare. Large teaching and research hospitals seem to be the most up to date on melanoma treatment. I dislike the environments at these hospitals as I despise being treated like a cross between a guinea pig, a lab rat and a circus sideshow freak. I will keep your family in my prayers. Prayer, family support and a positive attitude help far more than most people know.