Show Me Your Scar and I'll Show You Mine...
In August of 2011 I had my Doctor look at a small mole that I've had her look at many times. She referred me on to a Dermatologist that looked at it, thought it looked fine but removed it anyway.
I received the dreaded call on September 1, 2011 from my Dermatologist telling me that I had Melanoma. I was back in his office two days later to have a good size chunk removed from my left arm. Thank goodness ALL that came back clear. I do have follow up visits every 3 months for the first year and every 4 months for the second year. The goal is to stay cancer free for 2 years.
Early detection is the key. If I had waited a few weeks or months my Doctor believes that the Melanoma would have grown enough to require radiation.
This time last year you'd find me out in the sun (probably without sunscreen). Now, you won't find me anywhere without sunscreen. I keep a 50-100 SPF on my face, neck, chest and arms. I usually use a 15-30 SPF on my legs. Most times you'll also see me under an umbrella.
Melanoma is normally genetic. There is NO history of skin cancer in my family. The picture of the small mole shown here is about what my mole looked like except it had started stretching just a tiny bit, it also felt a little raised. The picture of the other mole is one that is not normal looking. The last picture is my scar, it's about 2 1/2 inches long and is fairly deep. I should think of some pretty cool Realtor stories to go along with that scar.
PLEASE...keep an eye on your moles and have them checked out annually! Early detection is the key!
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