Just diagnosed

[MnKsMama]

Today I got the news that I have stage 4 Melanoma. It started with a mole on my face and has metastasized to the lymph nodes on my neck. They’ve set me up to have a scan to make sure that it’s not in any other part of my body and I have an appointment to see a plastic surgeon to remove the mole and last but not least I have an appointment to see an oncologist. But holy cow am I overwhelmed. I am a young (31 year old) mom of 2 amazing boys. I learned quick not to read about my condition online, but figured it would be a good idea to find a community who understands what I’m going through... anyone have any suggestions for how to deal with the anxiety and fear until I get some definitive answers?!

[Robynfine]

Good morning,

This diagnosis is very scary. I learned that sometimes you just have to take it minute by minute. I try and focus on the positive things in my life. Sometimes they seem so small. I don’t know of any real good way of dealing with the anxiety of waiting for appointments and fears. I just hope that you have a really good support system. I was very fortunate and had good friends and family to support me. I had a great team of doctors that were always available as well. I also found a psychologist/counselor that really helped me cope with anxiety and fear. I don’t know if that something that you feel would be worthwhile, but maybe.

I don’t know if I helped you at all, but I hope and pray for the best news possible for you! Robyn

[HC47]

Hi there,

I'm in a very similar situation as you (that's why I'm here ;)). I'm 29 and was diagnosed with Stage IV melanoma as well (metastasis is my lungs, brain, and heart) back in October. You're going to get a lot thrown at you and it's insanely overwhelming. Don't Google. If you're looking for information, make sure you're going to reputable sources like American Cancer Society, Mayo Clinic, etc.

There are SO many scary things that come to mind with a cancer diagnosis. I'm going through Immunotherapy treatment vs. traditional chemotherapy. Side effects are SIGNIFICANTLY more manageable. Also, they're seeing huge success rates for it -- especially for Melanoma. So far, I'm having great success and tumors are shrinking. Hoping my story will give you some hope to stay positive. It's scary as hell, but take it day by day.

Also keep yourself busy (which I imagine is easy to do with those boys ;))