Remission
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Remission

› Forums › General Melanoma Community › Remission

  • Post
    • March 21, 2016 at 1:34 am
    vickiaa0529
    Participant

    Hi

    Does any one the odds of reaching remission at Stage3

    I am not sure what I am going to be staged at? I am having more nodes removed on April 4th. I am really scared. It seems like everyone's melanoma keeps coming back. I have not heard a lot of positive stories.

    Will I have a normal life ever again? I am scared for my husband and family.

    Thanks

     

Viewing 5 reply threads
  • Replies
      • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 am
      Janner
      Participant

      It's hard to look at any statistics nowadays because there are so many new treatments in the last 5 years.  Current statistics are no longer accurate.  Please remember that those – even at stage 3 – who have no recurrence have no reason to post.  You don't see them represented here.  Bulletin boards are for the people who are newly diagnosed and are in active treatment.  Long (and even short) term survivors at any stage tend to drift away from places like this.  They are out living life, not focusing on their melanoma.  The internet and sites like this are NOT a good representation of people with melanoma, it is only representative of those who are internet savvy and those who mostly have active disease.  Always keep that in mind when reading stories.

      • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 am
      Janner
      Participant

      It's hard to look at any statistics nowadays because there are so many new treatments in the last 5 years.  Current statistics are no longer accurate.  Please remember that those – even at stage 3 – who have no recurrence have no reason to post.  You don't see them represented here.  Bulletin boards are for the people who are newly diagnosed and are in active treatment.  Long (and even short) term survivors at any stage tend to drift away from places like this.  They are out living life, not focusing on their melanoma.  The internet and sites like this are NOT a good representation of people with melanoma, it is only representative of those who are internet savvy and those who mostly have active disease.  Always keep that in mind when reading stories.

        • March 21, 2016 at 12:57 pm
        liberty04281
        Participant
        It is hard to say, every individual is different. You can stay I’m remission or you can progress. I was diagnosed at stage 1, progresses to stage 3, than later to stage 4. Anyway I am doing well.
        Good luck!
        • March 21, 2016 at 12:57 pm
        liberty04281
        Participant
        It is hard to say, every individual is different. You can stay I’m remission or you can progress. I was diagnosed at stage 1, progresses to stage 3, than later to stage 4. Anyway I am doing well.
        Good luck!
        • March 21, 2016 at 12:57 pm
        liberty04281
        Participant
        It is hard to say, every individual is different. You can stay I’m remission or you can progress. I was diagnosed at stage 1, progresses to stage 3, than later to stage 4. Anyway I am doing well.
        Good luck!
        • March 21, 2016 at 1:07 pm
        keepthefaith11
        Participant
        Janner, I think this is an extremely important point. Thank you for sharing.
        • March 21, 2016 at 1:07 pm
        keepthefaith11
        Participant
        Janner, I think this is an extremely important point. Thank you for sharing.
        • March 21, 2016 at 1:07 pm
        keepthefaith11
        Participant
        Janner, I think this is an extremely important point. Thank you for sharing.
        • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 pm
        jenny22
        Participant

        Just wanted to add that remembering Janners point, is so important…I have to keep telling myself the same thing. 

        Though I try not to obsess about it I am often wondering and worrying about when the next shoe is going to drop and something new will happen and move me to Stage IV…but  I have to remember that NOT all stage III patients, (even stage IIIB) progress to stage IV.  And to Janners point, the ones who dont rarely spend alot of time on these boards….as a result we read much more about the ones who do, and sometimes it feels like EVERYONE progresses to STAGE IV, which we know is not the case.

        Lets remember the ones who aren't here, and are out lving thier lives, in the hopes more of us will be doing the same!

         

        Best,

        JEnny

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 pm
        jenny22
        Participant

        Just wanted to add that remembering Janners point, is so important…I have to keep telling myself the same thing. 

        Though I try not to obsess about it I am often wondering and worrying about when the next shoe is going to drop and something new will happen and move me to Stage IV…but  I have to remember that NOT all stage III patients, (even stage IIIB) progress to stage IV.  And to Janners point, the ones who dont rarely spend alot of time on these boards….as a result we read much more about the ones who do, and sometimes it feels like EVERYONE progresses to STAGE IV, which we know is not the case.

        Lets remember the ones who aren't here, and are out lving thier lives, in the hopes more of us will be doing the same!

         

        Best,

        JEnny

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 5:42 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Its really hard to not obsess about it. The more I read the more I get scared. The statitics on the cancer site are pretty grim for stage 3 and 4. I don't have a big support group because we moved from Texas to Seattle a few years ago. Anyway Thanks for your response

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 5:42 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Its really hard to not obsess about it. The more I read the more I get scared. The statitics on the cancer site are pretty grim for stage 3 and 4. I don't have a big support group because we moved from Texas to Seattle a few years ago. Anyway Thanks for your response

         

        • August 18, 2018 at 4:53 am
        judhibbs
        Participant
        My husband was diagnosed in Stage 4 melanoma cancer.The last two CT SCANS shows no sign of his cancer..He is in remission.From Stage 4 to remission is a blessing..He took two kinds of oral cancer meds and took lots of herbs..He is feeling much better..I believe in prayers.The right meds.The herbs and a positive attitude..He kept working and enjoyed his fishing,motorcycle runs,his hunting.He is always busy doing something.Cancer never slowed him down.I am so happy that he his living his life to the fullest..
        • March 21, 2016 at 5:42 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Its really hard to not obsess about it. The more I read the more I get scared. The statitics on the cancer site are pretty grim for stage 3 and 4. I don't have a big support group because we moved from Texas to Seattle a few years ago. Anyway Thanks for your response

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 pm
        jenny22
        Participant

        Just wanted to add that remembering Janners point, is so important…I have to keep telling myself the same thing. 

        Though I try not to obsess about it I am often wondering and worrying about when the next shoe is going to drop and something new will happen and move me to Stage IV…but  I have to remember that NOT all stage III patients, (even stage IIIB) progress to stage IV.  And to Janners point, the ones who dont rarely spend alot of time on these boards….as a result we read much more about the ones who do, and sometimes it feels like EVERYONE progresses to STAGE IV, which we know is not the case.

        Lets remember the ones who aren't here, and are out lving thier lives, in the hopes more of us will be doing the same!

         

        Best,

        JEnny

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 8:32 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Thanks so much for posting this, somehow it made me feel better

         

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 8:32 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Thanks so much for posting this, somehow it made me feel better

         

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 8:32 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        Thanks so much for posting this, somehow it made me feel better

         

         

        • March 22, 2016 at 12:34 am
        mdoh
        Participant

        Thank you for posting this, Janner. For those of us newly diagnosed, your points are important for us to remember. I read way too much about melanoma; can't help myself as I believe knowledge is power. But too much can be overwhelming. 

         

         

        • March 22, 2016 at 12:34 am
        mdoh
        Participant

        Thank you for posting this, Janner. For those of us newly diagnosed, your points are important for us to remember. I read way too much about melanoma; can't help myself as I believe knowledge is power. But too much can be overwhelming. 

         

         

        • March 22, 2016 at 12:34 am
        mdoh
        Participant

        Thank you for posting this, Janner. For those of us newly diagnosed, your points are important for us to remember. I read way too much about melanoma; can't help myself as I believe knowledge is power. But too much can be overwhelming. 

         

         

      • March 21, 2016 at 1:40 am
      Janner
      Participant

      It's hard to look at any statistics nowadays because there are so many new treatments in the last 5 years.  Current statistics are no longer accurate.  Please remember that those – even at stage 3 – who have no recurrence have no reason to post.  You don't see them represented here.  Bulletin boards are for the people who are newly diagnosed and are in active treatment.  Long (and even short) term survivors at any stage tend to drift away from places like this.  They are out living life, not focusing on their melanoma.  The internet and sites like this are NOT a good representation of people with melanoma, it is only representative of those who are internet savvy and those who mostly have active disease.  Always keep that in mind when reading stories.

      • March 21, 2016 at 1:46 pm
      BrianP
      Participant

      Vicki,

      I know you are at a very scary stage right now.  Hang in there.  It gets better.  There are tons of positive stories out there.  I'm one of them.  The new treatments provide so much more hope today.

      I would just recommend if you are not being seen by a melanoma specialist that you do so.  The treatment and knowledge on melanoma is changing so fast you really need to get the advice of someone who is up to date on all the latest. 

      This is a great board and has meant the world to me over the last few years.  Ask questions and stay engaged.  It can make a world of difference.

      Brian

      • March 21, 2016 at 1:46 pm
      BrianP
      Participant

      Vicki,

      I know you are at a very scary stage right now.  Hang in there.  It gets better.  There are tons of positive stories out there.  I'm one of them.  The new treatments provide so much more hope today.

      I would just recommend if you are not being seen by a melanoma specialist that you do so.  The treatment and knowledge on melanoma is changing so fast you really need to get the advice of someone who is up to date on all the latest. 

      This is a great board and has meant the world to me over the last few years.  Ask questions and stay engaged.  It can make a world of difference.

      Brian

        • March 21, 2016 at 5:37 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        I am tryingfrown

        The Dr did not answer a lot of my questions, and I have so many.

        Thanks for your response. It is just amazing that my node flared up. Its weird that I feel so healthy.

        And I am so scared….

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 5:37 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        I am tryingfrown

        The Dr did not answer a lot of my questions, and I have so many.

        Thanks for your response. It is just amazing that my node flared up. Its weird that I feel so healthy.

        And I am so scared….

         

        • March 21, 2016 at 6:32 pm
        MoiraM
        Participant

        Hi Vicky

        Having your questions answered is very important.

        I had access to a specialist melanoma nurse who would answer my questions when I emailed them to her or refer them to someone who could. Have you asked whether there is a similar facility at your treatment centre?

        When my anterior pituitary packed up (side effect of Ipi) the nurses who were part of the endocrine team were very different and not at all approachable. I managed to find a specialist pituitary nurse who works for a pirtuitary charity in the UK. Again, she has answered the questions I have emailed her and that has been great.

        So my first bit of advice would be to try and find out if there are any specilaist nurses who can help you.

        Even if you can't find a specialist nurse or similar, keep asking those questions. And not just about the melanoma but about every step of the treatment and the possible outcomes of each procedure.

        Like me and the Ipi. I asked my questions. I knew the risks. I am resigned to my anterior pituitary packing up.

        And it's OK to be scared. Just don't let it take over.

        All the best

        Moira

        • March 21, 2016 at 6:32 pm
        MoiraM
        Participant

        Hi Vicky

        Having your questions answered is very important.

        I had access to a specialist melanoma nurse who would answer my questions when I emailed them to her or refer them to someone who could. Have you asked whether there is a similar facility at your treatment centre?

        When my anterior pituitary packed up (side effect of Ipi) the nurses who were part of the endocrine team were very different and not at all approachable. I managed to find a specialist pituitary nurse who works for a pirtuitary charity in the UK. Again, she has answered the questions I have emailed her and that has been great.

        So my first bit of advice would be to try and find out if there are any specilaist nurses who can help you.

        Even if you can't find a specialist nurse or similar, keep asking those questions. And not just about the melanoma but about every step of the treatment and the possible outcomes of each procedure.

        Like me and the Ipi. I asked my questions. I knew the risks. I am resigned to my anterior pituitary packing up.

        And it's OK to be scared. Just don't let it take over.

        All the best

        Moira

        • March 21, 2016 at 6:32 pm
        MoiraM
        Participant

        Hi Vicky

        Having your questions answered is very important.

        I had access to a specialist melanoma nurse who would answer my questions when I emailed them to her or refer them to someone who could. Have you asked whether there is a similar facility at your treatment centre?

        When my anterior pituitary packed up (side effect of Ipi) the nurses who were part of the endocrine team were very different and not at all approachable. I managed to find a specialist pituitary nurse who works for a pirtuitary charity in the UK. Again, she has answered the questions I have emailed her and that has been great.

        So my first bit of advice would be to try and find out if there are any specilaist nurses who can help you.

        Even if you can't find a specialist nurse or similar, keep asking those questions. And not just about the melanoma but about every step of the treatment and the possible outcomes of each procedure.

        Like me and the Ipi. I asked my questions. I knew the risks. I am resigned to my anterior pituitary packing up.

        And it's OK to be scared. Just don't let it take over.

        All the best

        Moira

        • March 22, 2016 at 8:51 pm
        Sce1
        Participant

        Hello

        I think another lady just posted today who is 2 years NED ane was at an advanced stage. Not sure where you are in the world but in the UK there are several cancer charities and you can email them with questions. Also macmillan cancer research ahs a similar facility where you can email questions. 

        By the way I think you're incredibly brave, especially being able to openly acknowledge how scared you are … praying for you xxx

        Best wishes

        Shamaine xxx 

        • March 22, 2016 at 8:51 pm
        Sce1
        Participant

        Hello

        I think another lady just posted today who is 2 years NED ane was at an advanced stage. Not sure where you are in the world but in the UK there are several cancer charities and you can email them with questions. Also macmillan cancer research ahs a similar facility where you can email questions. 

        By the way I think you're incredibly brave, especially being able to openly acknowledge how scared you are … praying for you xxx

        Best wishes

        Shamaine xxx 

        • March 23, 2016 at 2:24 am
        tschmith
        Participant

        Hi Vicky!!!!

        So far, so good for me!  Stage IV and No Evidence of Active Disease.  I know how you feel. I was so scared and will admit that I still am, but I also have so much hope!  

        Prayers for you and all of us!!!!  No one fights alone!

        Terrie

        • March 23, 2016 at 2:24 am
        tschmith
        Participant

        Hi Vicky!!!!

        So far, so good for me!  Stage IV and No Evidence of Active Disease.  I know how you feel. I was so scared and will admit that I still am, but I also have so much hope!  

        Prayers for you and all of us!!!!  No one fights alone!

        Terrie

        • March 23, 2016 at 2:24 am
        tschmith
        Participant

        Hi Vicky!!!!

        So far, so good for me!  Stage IV and No Evidence of Active Disease.  I know how you feel. I was so scared and will admit that I still am, but I also have so much hope!  

        Prayers for you and all of us!!!!  No one fights alone!

        Terrie

        • March 22, 2016 at 8:51 pm
        Sce1
        Participant

        Hello

        I think another lady just posted today who is 2 years NED ane was at an advanced stage. Not sure where you are in the world but in the UK there are several cancer charities and you can email them with questions. Also macmillan cancer research ahs a similar facility where you can email questions. 

        By the way I think you're incredibly brave, especially being able to openly acknowledge how scared you are … praying for you xxx

        Best wishes

        Shamaine xxx 

        • March 21, 2016 at 5:37 pm
        vickiaa0529
        Participant

        I am tryingfrown

        The Dr did not answer a lot of my questions, and I have so many.

        Thanks for your response. It is just amazing that my node flared up. Its weird that I feel so healthy.

        And I am so scared….

         

      • March 21, 2016 at 1:46 pm
      BrianP
      Participant

      Vicki,

      I know you are at a very scary stage right now.  Hang in there.  It gets better.  There are tons of positive stories out there.  I'm one of them.  The new treatments provide so much more hope today.

      I would just recommend if you are not being seen by a melanoma specialist that you do so.  The treatment and knowledge on melanoma is changing so fast you really need to get the advice of someone who is up to date on all the latest. 

      This is a great board and has meant the world to me over the last few years.  Ask questions and stay engaged.  It can make a world of difference.

      Brian

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