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I just turned 54 and got results today that I have melanoma in situ, stage 0 on my chest. I go tomorrow for the excision. Of course I am still quite nervous, as I just got the news 3.5 hours ago and doubt I'll sleep at all tonight. I'm feeling a bit better that some of you have not had any recurrence. It's just hard to hear those words, melanoma cancer. I've only shared the news with my husband and oldest son at this point, just need to settle in to this...
Replies to "I just turned 54 and got results today that I have melanoma in situ, stage 0..."
@lelandmomof3: of course it's unsettling (to say the least) to hear you have melanoma. We hear the word and instantly think it's associated with a dire prognosis. But the exceptionally good news is treatment for these types of skin cancers have advanced remarkably in recent years, especially in your case. Why do I say that? Because as you pointed out you have Stage 0, in situ - it has not spread beyond the outer layer of skin. AND you're having it removed promptly.
This may help to explain in greater detail: https://www.aimatmelanoma.org/stages-of-melanoma/stage-0-in-situ-melanoma/
As @gingerw has assured you, many people can undergo excissions for melanoma without further incidence, particularly when caught at such an early stage.
How did your procedure go today and are you feeling more settled now?
@lelandmomof3 Sincerest wishes all went well yesterday. We live in an incredible age when so very much can be done with an early diagnosis. I try to rest in that place with a good dose of vigilance. I was diagnosed Stage 1a in 2019 and have made peace with the notion that if I'm to remain healthy, a lot depends on my attention to my body. You'll find your 'sea legs!'
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@lelandmomof3 Welcome to Mayo Clinic Connect!
How are you feeling this morning? Did you get any rest last night? I'm glad they were able to get you in so quickly. Getting any kind of negative news can certainly be such a hit on us, and our emotions. My melanoma procedure was 12/31/2008, with no reoccurrence.
Please let me know how you do today.
Ginger