I am a 22 year old female who was diagnosed with Melanoma this past June. I had 4 lymph nodes removed and skin graphing done on my fore arm. They staged me as a stage 2 malignant melanoma. They talked about interferon as a precaution, but the doctor said because I had no present signs it wasn't needed, so now I go for routine check ups with a derm., oncologist, and plastic surgeon... My question is I'm terrified of it coming back after everything I have learned. I have a new mole removed everytime I go to the doctor and I'm constantly finding new moles that bother me. Obviously, this is all in my head, but does this ever stop? I feel like I'm driving myself crazy. I also wanted treatment to be sure this wouldn't come back.... Is that wierd? Is this normal?
I don't know anyone who has been diagnosed with this that I can talk to and I get the feeling that people don't take skin cancer as serious as other cancers.... How can I relax again???
The last thing I want is for this to consume me, but how do I find the balance between being precautious and being completely dramatic..? : )
It's frustrating.... Any thoughts from anyone would be greatly appreciated!!