J.bun

While not currently on Taf/Mek – have been on it before and essentially no side effects.  Some fatigue, but that was about it.  

I have also been on Zelboraf/Cotellic (different BRAF combo) and had horrendous side effects. 

So results def vary by person and medication.  The side effects on all the meds are scary, so just be cognizant of how you are feeling and don’t be be afraid to contact your doc of things seem really off. 

BRAF has worked well for me, and will go back on it if my current treatment (Keytruda) is not having desired effects. 

Mine recurred as a lump at my sentinel node biopsy site. I was also concerned about my scar healing and had those pimply looking things, but at least for me – that was not an issue.

From my experience, the Drs at Inova are great – have been going there for nearly 3 yrs (when I was first diagnosed).  They have helped me through many hills and valleys – extremely knowledgeable and always answer all my questions.  Given their multi-disciplinary team approach and melanoma specialization , you’ll learn something new from each Dr and they will answer questions you didn’t even realize they had… and work this one step at a time, while providing options dependent on clinical information and overall assessment of your husband. 

Next steps will probably include a wide local excision/sentinel node biopsy.  To assess any spread, they go the PET CT and brain MRI route. You may want to ask them about each of these and rationale on if/when they do these things (I don’t think these are standard to get immediately).

best wishes!

Welcome Bill! I also had quite the last year and still fighting. Am currently on Keytruda as well – had 9th infusion this past Friday. My doctor did imaging after 8, and is still intent that if things stabilize/melanoma goes away and stays away  – will be in it for 12 months. 

Best wishes to you. 

Thanks for sharing your story Gary. Best wishes to you for continued clear reports/tests  next year, and in all the years to come. 

Best wishes Bill… I’ll be thinking of you.  At least when the doctors have a plan for you going in to an appt – it takes all the guesswork of various options out.  We all have to look on the bright side 😉 xhugsx

Will be thinking of you tomorrow – sending lots of good thoughts your way!!!

Best wishes for you Jenn!!!  Hope you have an easy recovery from surgery.

My vote is to establish a relationship with an onc specialized in melanoma.  When I was 1B, I initially had skin checks and x-rays/LDH every 3 months – then went down to 4-6 months.  While I personally detected a lump (so not actually as a result of clinical monitoring) having a relationship and specialized center was important for quick action when there was a problem.

  Hopefully you will never advance from your current stage, but melanoma should not be taken lightly!

Beth – glad you husband had a positive experience, and now an action plan to move forward!