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Kickapo28
Kickapo28 Member Posts: 4 Member
edited May 2023 in Skin Cancer #1

Hi. I first got melanoma in 2016. Surgically removed from my lower leg and 3 more surgeries for new spots that popped up. Been on immunotherapy for 12 months. Combo now of OPDIVO and Yervoy. Side effects are not too bad. Had big problems with pills prescribed before. My last surgery was in October 2021. I ask myself if I still have melanoma. All surgeries in my left,lower leg. Never spread anywhere else. Pet scans been good, however oncologist continues to remind me this disease can be microscopic and not show up in the scans. Regular visits to the dermatologist reveal no new trouble spots. Their fear, and mine, is I have lots of moles in that area. Have worries about this but luckily not all consuming ( most of the time). Just seems like unless you are dealing with this, not much understanding from others.

Comments

  • scarsRus
    scarsRus Member Posts: 4 Member
    #2

    Hey It sounds like you got a great treatment and are well on your way. I'm currently going through the same drug regiment, but I've got another aggressive tumor that isn't shrinking with the drugs. Johns Hopkins just approved an added treatment of BRAF and MEK inhibitors which should overcome the cancer and my ability to kill it off. There seem to be good 5 year durability with the drugs. After that the game starts all over again. Consider tempus pharmaceutical has developed a liquid biopsy tempus XG/ XT for cancer screening and genetic testing of cancer that can catch problems before they arise . Stand Strong!

  • Kickapo28
    Kickapo28 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #3

    Thank you scarsRus for the good information. All going pretty well for me, and I wish you all the best ! Take care and nice to be aware of someone else dealing with this. Please take care.

  • KateLadd
    KateLadd Member Posts: 2 *
    #4

    I am so sorry for you. I am in a similar situation and I do understand and feel for you. I had melanoma removal on my thigh in 2019. Have been clear since up until this past August. Two new spots removed and a biopsy tomorrow for a new site. I try not to harbor on it, but all the new sites popping up is scary. People do not understand the fear of the unknown with this disease. Prayers for you!

  • Kickapo28
    Kickapo28 Member Posts: 4 Member
    #5

    Hi KateLadd,

    I hope all is ok with you. Yes indeed, the fear of the unknown can play havoc on our wellbeing. Like you, I try not to dwell on my melanoma issue. However, 3 biopsies and 3 Moh's surgeries in the past 2 months makes it difficult to shove to the side. The very good news is I have a team of doctors I now see regularly to help me manage this. I work towards a positive and fresh perspective on a regular basis. Sending good thoughts and prayers to you. All my best!

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