As many who have had a bout with melanoma know, it is not something that is "cured". As I have experienced with my 2 bouts is that is can come back at any time and without any warning. One of my big reasons for doing the clinical trial was because I wanted the best chance to catch the "next" melanoma as soon as possible. As part of the clinical trial, I have regular visits with my doctor and regular scans. Though I have had a few scares, luckily I have had clear scans now for 4+ years. As the doctor at Huntsman told me, I am currently the patient who has been in the trial the longest at Huntsman. It is to the point now that I it has been recommended that I return to seeing a dermatologist and my visits to Huntsman will not be as frequent. Though the news is great I still have in the back of my mind the question of when the "next one" will surface. Because I have decided not to worry about what I can't control, I am moving on cautiously but not ...
In 2003, I was diagnosised with melanoma. Following surgery, tests showed no more cancer. In 2010, I found a lump below my right ear. It was removed and again found to be melanoma. A second surgery has left scars on the right side of my face. This is my journey!