Wow, I can’t believe it’s been almost 10 years since I first wrote about my experiences with pre-cancerous melanoma cells. I first wrote about it here: Pieces of Me and then followed up last year with More and More Pieces of Me. As I wrote last year, my annual mole checks at the dermatologist have increased to a check every 6-8 months because I have such a high rate of pre-cancerous cells.
Basically, if my dermatologist thinks a mole looks sketchy we cut it off and have it sent to the lab. The majority of the time, the test comes back from moderate to severe on the pre-cancer meter. I’m talking like 90% of the time. So now, if my dermatologist even thinks something looks odd, I basically interrupt her with CUT IT OFF!
I’ve honestly lost count at this point on how many pieces I’ve had cut off… but I think it’s somewhere more than 10, but less than 20?
In January, my dermatologist decided I had a mole on my neck that looked suspicious. Unlike every other mole, I was resistant at having this one removed because it was ON MY NECK. I already hate anyone touching my neck due to a childhood surgery that left a very faint scar. Also, my scars tend to stay bright pink for awhile before fading to white… so I really didn’t want to be running around with what looked like a hickey on my neck for a year.
However… that 90% number stuck in my head. So, I went for it and had a mole removed from my neck in January. And 2 weeks later, when I went back to get my stitches taken out, I found out that it was severe on the pre-cancer scale.
I’m thankful to my doctor’s keen eye and I’m glad I went through the pain (and itching of those dang stitches) to have the mole removed. And now that it’s been about 5 months I can say that the scar isn’t as bad as I thought it would be.
Here is January 2021 vs June 2021:
Consider this your reminder to please, please, please book a yearly appointment with your dermatologist to have your moles looked at. And tell your loved ones. And tell your friends. Because you might end up saving someone’s life. If I can influence just one person to go and have their moles checked, it will be worth it.
Thanks so much for the reminder, I have had moles, exzema, for quite a while on my back. I have been meaning to go in and have it all looked at. I will now make an appointment.
Your scar is not even noticeable! You look great.
Nancy