I have just ben diagnosed with melanoma

[Wal2330]

Hi, I have just been diagnosed with Melanoma. This is the second experience with it, in 2023 I had 3 melanomas and several other things removed. All clear, margins clean . 

Now it is back. Transient metastatic melanoma. Over 14 occurences on my lower left leg, where the original was. I have pathology result from one of the "spots" which confirms it. Surgical oncologist said surgery would get rid of them, but they would come back. I am waiting for medical oncologist to see me and decide what treatment might bring it under control. All Drs, GP, dermatologist and surgeon are thinking immuno therapy will be the treatment. In the meantime, I am swinging between, " I will beat this" and the alternative, my head hurts. The waiting for appointments is the worst part......

[Miranda_ccnsw]

Hi @Wal2330 

I'm really sorry to hear you are going through this. Having melanoma return like it has is incredibly hard and it makes total sense that your mind is swinging between hope and fear right now. Thank you for sharing this with us. 

The waiting between appointments for news, plans, results and next steps can be one of the toughest parts to all this. So... it's completely normal your thoughts might roller coaster around - it doesn't mean you're not coping, just that you're human. 

Please know you don't have to carry this on your own. If at any time you'd like to talk things through with someone who understands cancer care and the emotional side of waiting, Cancer Council's health professionals are available on 13 11 20. You may find one of our telephone support groups for metastatic melanoma would be beneficial to support you? 

Perhaps someone else in the community has been through something similar? What tips would you give to @Wal2330 right now?

Here's a resource on Immunotherapy that might help understand treatment options better also.

Stay strong,

Miranda 

CCNSW