Even though the surgeon told me that recurrence rates for someone in my circumstances is 5-7 percent, I can’t help but worry. Especially after reading about so many whose mel recurred years and years after the initial diagnosis on the MPIP board. Yikes.
So it looks like I’m going to go from being seriously lackadaisical about my health (if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it) to being downright paranoid…
Advertisement
Carver said
I think you have to give yourself time. I was diagnosed at stage III almost 3 years ago (two weeks will make 3 years from deep primary removal and a few weeks after that was the positive SNB). I am still not completely past recurrence fears but it has gotten better. One thing to keep in mind about the MPIP is that you see a lot of worse case scenarios. So many people that don’t have problems, recurrences, etc. move past the point where they need a forum like the MPIP. Some who don’t recur form friendships and stick around but so many of the people who don’t recur, move on. I think it’s important to be vigilant but there’s a fine line. I am so glad that your node wasn’t positive and I think you have a lot of reasons to be optimistic. I do too for that matter, since I’ve been stage III NED for well over 2 years. However, it takes time to get used to a diagnosis like melanoma. Wishing you all the best, Carver
Billy said
Hi ,
I had a lump removed from my face in late Dec.07.It was deep.However the Sentinal Node was negative and CT was clear .Thank God for all that .It was a hard time waiting for the results . I think I am in the category Stage 11B T4a NO MO.There was no ulceration in my case and no vascular invasion.
I must meet the Consultant in Mid Feb .I am just wondering what kind of treatment they will recommend.
I wish all of you every success.Billy