One never knows
Not only does cancer
suck, but did you know that having any cancer puts you at higher risk for
developing another cancer?
Incurable cancers tend to spread to various parts of your
body but it is still called the name of the original cancer. For example,
prostate cancer can spread to your bones, lymph nodes, and lung and it is still
called prostate cancer.
Sometimes, however, you can get a new and unrelated cancer. In
my case the new cancer started as a small flat mole, shaped roughly like
Antarctica, and sporting several bland colors. It was located just below my
right shoulder, near my modest and tasteful axe tattoo. My wife suggested a
doctor visit, the doctor suggested a biopsy, and the report came back labeled melanoma. Bummer! Melanoma is the BAD
skin cancer, but the report also said early
stage and that the biopsy may have been big enough to take out the whole
thing.
We all agreed (doctor, wife, and me) that it was wise to have
a little larger area around the ex-mole removed just to be sure. So be it. I
think we all caught it early and I will be as good as new (not an absolute
value).
Moral of story
Pay attention to your body. Cancer is sneaky and lurks in
various and sundry places inside and outside your body. Pay attention to moles
that are not the normal round, rough, brown kind. Moles that suddenly appear
can be a risk. A doctor can tell you if a biopsy is needed. My biopsy didn’t
even hurt and the peace of mind from knowing for sure is priceless.
axman
