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Tracy's Diagnosis with Melanoma

Share Your Story: Reader Stories: I Was Diagnosed with Skin Cancer

From Tracy Morris

Updated April 05, 2010

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How Old Were You When You Were Diagnosed?

I am 44 and just found out I have the most serious phase of Melanoma

What Symptoms Did You Have Before Being Diagnosed?

None- just noticed a mole changing shape.

Tell Us About Your Diagnosis and Treatment

I will have my first consult with a surgeon to see where we go from here. Any clues as to what I might expect. Is Chemo and Radiation part of the treatment process?

How Has Having Skin Cancer Affected Your Life?

The news is still so new so it hasn't all sunk in yet. Mainly trying to determine if there has every been a family history of skin cancer. Also, rethinking what cosmeceutical products, etc should I avoid if I should begin chemo or radiation. How long with the process last. Sunblock has always been a part of my regimen, but will be more so now.

Advice

  • I am actually looking for advice from anyone who has had Melanoma and gone through the treatments. For those of us who have used sunblock, it is hard to believe you can get cancer.

Lisa Fayed, Cancer Guide, says:

There are many factors that go into cancer development. When someone like Tracy has been so diligent about using sunscreen and then develops melanoma, it can be so frustrating. We know that excessive sun exposure and sunburns are the major cause of melanoma, but there is so much left uncovered. Thankfully, research is ongoing and is promising. I want to thank Tracy for sharing her story with us. To connect with others going through cancer treatment, please visit the About.com Cancer Forum.

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