Hello @lynn99 and welcome to Mayo Connect. When you say, "It's pretty scary" most of us understand what you mean. Merkel Cell is a rare form of cancer and those of us who have experienced rare cancers understand the frightening aspect of this type of diagnosis.

As you can see, your post has been moved to this discussion group where you will meet others with the same diagnosis. Here you will meet @rogermcintire @penlandtr1 @dreams and @redneckchic501. I would encourage you to read the posts in this discussion group.

One of the first considerations, with any rare cancer diagnosis, is to consult with a specialist. If you do not live near a well-known specialist, often a virtual appointment can be made available. I mention this because not all general oncologists are trained or experienced in treating rare cancers. Mayo Clinic has three locations, where a virtual or in-person appointment might be a possibility for you. Here is a link to appointment information, http://mayocl.in/1mtmR63. If you have a cancer center of excellence nearby you can also contact them for an oncologist in the area who is experienced with Merkel Cell.

Here is some general information from Mayo Clinic's website about Merkel Cell Carcinoma which you might find helpful, https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/merkel-cell-carcinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20351030

How are you feeling since your surgery, @lynn99?

Hello Lynn99, I am Roger McIntire, also a Merkel Cell Carcinoma fighter. I'm 81 and in fairly good shape. My cancer was discovered on July 2nd of this year just under my left eye on the upper cheek. A total body PET scan on August 21st showed no spread to any area of the body.
I had surgery September 21 and learned there were Merkel cells in one of two lymph nodes on my left cheek that were removed.
I started immunotherapy on October 23 using Opdivo every two weeks. As of yet I have had no adverse side effects after seven treatments.
I also started 25 radiation therapy treatments December 5 and just finished on January 11th. The radiation is not pleasant but tolerable. I am still dealing with some of the radiation side effects such as sore tongue, throat, blistering on the left side of face and neck. The loss of taste is a real bother for someone who likes to eat like me, but I'm told it should return.
I have a very positive attitude and would be willing to share my experience thus far with you.
At this point I pray you have strength and peace to deal with whatever comes!