Impact of Melanoma

[ShanDelGaud]

As crazy as it might sound, melanoma has actually impacted my social life in a positive way...I’ve always been a very outgoing person but being Stage 4 and being close to losing my life on a couple of occasions, I’ve notice that I make even more of an effort to connect with others, even if it’s just with a smile. It’s made me realize even more how short life is, and we need to make the best of our time on earth. Plus, throughout my experience I have met some really amazing people that I feel so blessed to call my friends.

And I think it has impacted my family (except my mom) and friends in the same way. My mom has battled anxiety since she was a young girl, but my stage 4 diagnosis at 6 months pregnant, in 2011, continues to affect her mental health.

[nataliemelanoma Administrator SYSF Ambassador SYSF]

Most of my friendships/relationships have been impacted by my diagnosis and subsequent adjustment to living with melanoma, and not all in a good way. I have several good friends that are now disconnected, though my family relationships are strong and healthy.

The new friends and amazing connections I have made with fellow patients have truly helped me to move forward along this journey. It helps to feel that someone understands the situation on the same level as my own.