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Still Clear and Loving Life!

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 letting it limit what I want to do.  I still umpire baseball, travel, enjoy working outdoors, etc.  I am cautious but not reckless.

To those fighting the fight, I wish you the best and a lot of luck!!  I have realized that cancer is simply a disease that affects the limitations of the human body but does not limit the spirit that lives inside me!!  I can determine how I will react and live my life and I choose not to let cancer control it!!

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