CancerCompass message board discussion started by marieH on 7/28/2007 http://www.cancercompass.com/message-board/message/all,14780,0.htm Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT Mon, 13 Oct 2008 00:00:00 GMT http://backend.userland.com/rss RSS.NET: http://www.rssdotnet.com/ My husband's mother has just been diagnosed with metastatic melanoma. She had a melanoma 10 years ago and about a month ago they found a tumor in her brain that they removed. This week, they found 3 spots on her lower lumbar of her spine and one spot on her rib. The doctor told her she has months. Can anyone tell me what we can expect? My husband wants to fly out and visit her, but she starts radiation/chemo in two days. Knowing what we can expect will help me prepare him. We are still in a state of disbelief... marieH Sat, 28 Jul 2007 00:00:00 GMT From what I have read, everyone has a different story with melanoma.  It seems there is no deffinate answer to what will happen step by step. It is a beast that just does its own attacking.... My mother had melanoma removed 12 years ago, and had yearly checkups that were fine.May 2005 she was diagnosed with stage IV. Shocking to us, because we never knew it returned.Had a tumor in the brain, and then found cancer cells in the spine in May 2006...that is when they said chemo, so she did. but June 2006 they said no change.  Once it hit her spine, then they said 2-4 months.....she passed away about 3 weeks after they said that....really fast!So, I wish I could help you with a step by step picture, but I can just say try to be as supportive as possible, she will need care during chemo.best of luck, and my prayers to you. Missholly Wed, 15 Aug 2007 00:00:00 GMT