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Celebrating 8 years NED…but still sad…
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Celebrating 8 years NED…but still sad…

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Celebrating 8 years NED…but still sad…

  • Post
    • November 20, 2012 at 1:14 am
    BethA in VA
    Participant

      I just passed the 8 year mark of NED with Stage 3/B Melanoma.   For the first time since 2004 I don't have to return to my oncologist for one year!!  This is a big victory.

      I just passed the 8 year mark of NED with Stage 3/B Melanoma.   For the first time since 2004 I don't have to return to my oncologist for one year!!  This is a big victory.

      At the same time I got good news, the husband of my friend was fighting for his life.   He only had a 8 months since diagnosis, and thought he was responding well.  Then about 1 week ago, he had Gamma Knife surgery, and was unresponsive from then on.  I attended his funeral today.   We rejoice that his fight was not long, but I feel so bad that he just never seemed to have a chance. 

      I think I feel guilty…which I  know makes no sense.  But I am well, and he is gone.  This has brought back many emotions that I thought were gone. 

      BethA   Once again NED 8 years        (NED 10 years between MM #1 and #2)

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    • Replies
        • November 20, 2012 at 5:56 pm
        Tina D
        Participant

          Very wonderful news on this 8 year milestone!

          I understand the conflict, when you know others are suffering, or lost their battle. I think about it every time I am on this board, and every time I go to the oncologist's office. I never understood "survivor's guilt" before recently.

          Yet, we sure rejoice with you on your reaching this great milestone.

          Tina

          • November 20, 2012 at 5:56 pm
          Tina D
          Participant

            Very wonderful news on this 8 year milestone!

            I understand the conflict, when you know others are suffering, or lost their battle. I think about it every time I am on this board, and every time I go to the oncologist's office. I never understood "survivor's guilt" before recently.

            Yet, we sure rejoice with you on your reaching this great milestone.

            Tina

            • November 20, 2012 at 5:56 pm
            Tina D
            Participant

              Very wonderful news on this 8 year milestone!

              I understand the conflict, when you know others are suffering, or lost their battle. I think about it every time I am on this board, and every time I go to the oncologist's office. I never understood "survivor's guilt" before recently.

              Yet, we sure rejoice with you on your reaching this great milestone.

              Tina

              • November 26, 2012 at 5:05 pm
              dodgedh2
              Participant

                I'm Stage 4 and I've been NED for over 4 years now. Don't feel alone. Those of us that are fortunite enough to remain NED for long periods all feel guilty, especially when we know others that haven't responded as well, or have lost their battle. I for one keep trying to feel good about doing so well, but I keep coming back to the nagging question of "Will it come back and when?". Keep up what you're doing, because I've been told that those of us that are long term NED give hope to those that are just beginning their battle. Most of all, remember, you are not alone.

                • November 26, 2012 at 5:05 pm
                dodgedh2
                Participant

                  I'm Stage 4 and I've been NED for over 4 years now. Don't feel alone. Those of us that are fortunite enough to remain NED for long periods all feel guilty, especially when we know others that haven't responded as well, or have lost their battle. I for one keep trying to feel good about doing so well, but I keep coming back to the nagging question of "Will it come back and when?". Keep up what you're doing, because I've been told that those of us that are long term NED give hope to those that are just beginning their battle. Most of all, remember, you are not alone.

                  • November 26, 2012 at 5:05 pm
                  dodgedh2
                  Participant

                    I'm Stage 4 and I've been NED for over 4 years now. Don't feel alone. Those of us that are fortunite enough to remain NED for long periods all feel guilty, especially when we know others that haven't responded as well, or have lost their battle. I for one keep trying to feel good about doing so well, but I keep coming back to the nagging question of "Will it come back and when?". Keep up what you're doing, because I've been told that those of us that are long term NED give hope to those that are just beginning their battle. Most of all, remember, you are not alone.

                Viewing 5 reply threads
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