Forum Discussion

Andy_D's avatar
Andy_D
Member
14 years ago

New with melanoma

Hi there

This is my first ever blog. I have been diagnosed on the 22nd February with breast cancer after having a PET scan as I have been battling Stage 4 melanoma for the past three years. 

I am really stunned and am at present on a chemotherapy drug or inhibitor which has been helpful to my fight with the melanoma. 

I am wanting to know if there is anyone out there who has experienced this. 

I am due for surgery - I have already had the tumour removed in case it was melanoma - but have to have wider margins taken , a sentinal biopsy and then the nodes checked. I have no idea if this is the best way for me to go but have taken the advice of a very highly regarded surgeon. 

I am worried about how my body will react to the radiation that can be anticipated I believe as my skin is very sensitive due to the drug I already take. I think I just have to trust the ones who know and hope for the best. This is a very hard battle on top of melanoma 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3 Replies

  • Andy_D's avatar
    Andy_D
    Member
    14 years ago

    Thanks for the replies. It seems there are few with my complicated situation of melanoma and breast cancer. I have mow had surgery and sentinal node biopsy. I await the results on Wednesday when I revisit the surgeon and discuss treatment. 

    This is all new to me except that having battled with melanoma for three  years or more I am used to scans, operations and appointments. 

    I just cannot believe this is happening to me and wonder how come. 

    If anyone does have information that my apply to me  I would be happy to  hear it. 

    Andy D

     

  • Di_BCNA's avatar
    Di_BCNA
    Member
    14 years ago

    Hi Andy, so sorry to hear you're facing this on top of everything else, but I'm glad you found the online network.  And good on you for having a go with your first blog!  You can find hints and tips on the help and the Q&A pages if you want them, but you really can't break anything so just jump in anywhere you want. :)

    I don't know if we have anyone here in the network who's also been diagnosed with melanoma, but you're very welcome here. Please feel free to ask questions or share your experiences any time.

    ~Di

  • Chris's avatar
    Chris
    Member
    14 years ago
    Hi Andy, sorry to hear of your plight with both melanoma and breast cancer. You mention your concerns with your skin and radiotherapy, and it sounds like a valid reason to consider. I chose a mastectomy over a lumpectomy, as I too was concerned about side effects of radiotherapy. I really wanted reconstructcion as well, and radiotherapy reduces your choices, because of damage to your skin. I have no regrets about my choice, and though they will not be able to guarantee 100% that you won't need radio till after the pathology, in many cases, mastectomy negates the need for radiotherapy. I have since gone on to have a second mastectomy after my chemo, and have now completed bilateral reconstruction with implants about 6 weeksa ago, and am very happy with my results. Good luck with your treatment plan. Love Chris xx