Hi all,
Just wanted to check in! Realized I haven't been on the forum for at least a year or two. Just hit my 6 years NED after my first oncologist gave me 6 months to a year! .. For those of you that don't remember…
Diagnosed in 2009 at 25. Stage 3 with less than 1% of isolated tumor cells in sentinel node. First oncologist was horrible and told me there was nothing to do because I would die from it in the next year and there were no treatment options. Refused to accept that and did my own research. Found UCSF Melanoma Center and Dr. Daud…both amazing!!!!! Not many choices back then..and told I was BraF negative etc..! I remember when i asked him my prognosis, he smiled laughed and told me not to stop buying bananas because there was a large chance my melanoma would NOT come back. Genetic testing could not ID known mutation type so we decided on Interferon for a year. HIgh dose for a month in hospital and then 11 months of self injections. Wasn't easy but wasn't horrible. Able to attend classes and workout after first month or two.
Changed careers from Law to Nursing. Won MRF courage award in 2010 at the SF gala. Just had my 6 year NED date and though I put up a little resistance 🙂 ..my oncologists stopped all PET/CTs and moved visits annually instead of 6 months. During the past 6 years I have changed careers and received my Masters in Nursing and will be an oncology nurse!! My nurses and experience have changed my life for the better. Excited to give back to those who helped me so much. There is hope ! Even when told there isn't any 🙂
Sad to come on here and read about Jerry after seeing his FB..he was one of the first people who befriended me on this forum years ago and helped me navigate my new diagnosis. He defintiely was an angel and will be missed.
To all the old faces! Hi and thank you for all of your support over the years!
JenJen
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