Hi all….I was diagnosed with a stage 1a melanoma (0.7 mm) in January and felt like my world had caved in and this was it.
Thankfully I have a great dermatologist who did a great job with the WLE and the advice she gave me was not to let this diagnosis rule my life – going out in the sun was fine and going to the pool was fine (with obvious precautions).
Just had my first 3 month check which was all clear (really 6 months since surgery as I had to have 2 ops on a benign atypical mole). The next week we went on a family vacation to Grand Teton and Yellowstone which invlved hiking 6-10 miles per day.
Now when we are out hiking I wear Colombia gear (SPF 50) wiode brimmed hats, long shorts and long pants.
The vacation was marvelous and Idid not worry about being outside and still went swimming in lakes, etc – just not in midday sun.
Guess, even though this is early days, that my dermatologist was right. Don’t let it rule your life and enjoy life. Many, many other things could get you!
My 10 year old does not like my new look (!) but from this point forward better safe than sorry!