On 4/16/2008
STEPH22 wrote:
I recently found out that my 22yr old sister's melanoma has spread to her brain and liver. She had a mole that the family was concerned about. She found out she was pregnant and the cancer took over. Stephanie had the baby, a little girl, on March 18th and 4 weeks later we got the horrible news. She has 3 cancer massis on her back, 6 in her brain and not sure how much but in her liver as well.
This has been very hard on me because not only is she my baby sister but i also had one removed 2 yrs ago that was pre melanoma. And i as well was pregnant. It was removed early and i made an appt next week to have others that have changed color to be checked out.
My question is even if i catch these early they can come back? I have a two year old and this is scary stuff.
Hello Steph,
As I was reviewing the message board I noticed you had not received a reply. I know how frustrating it can be when you start thinking no one is listening or cares. I am diagnosed with stage IV metastasized melanoma and have been since 2001. I began treatment January 2000 and as you know "life" took a new rout. As it metastasized my lungs, lower abdomen, intestines and lymph nodes were invaded. My oncologist is suprised I survived the treatment. I almost didn't but here I am 8 years later hopefully encouraging you.
I have been examined by a dermatologist many times. In fact the first time in 1999 3 doctors including a dermatologist said the mole on my right arm was nothing to worry about. I demanded a biopsy and it was melanoma. I tell you this because I don't want you to just take "their" word for it. If you see a spot on your body that causes concern make them do a FULL biopsy and not just shave it off.
Since the initial melanoma I have had only one spot on my back that raised concern in me. Again the dermatologist didn't want to do anything and I told him to either do a full biopsy or put it in writting that there is nothing wrong and he refuses to do a biopsy. The biopsy results came back normal and I have peace of mind. I am now 48 years old. I'm a husband and father that now has eyes to see and ears to hear when a voice calls out. Please keep calling. I guarantee someone will hear you.
In HIS care,
ByFaith