I was diagnosed with a 1mm Nodular melanoma on my left thigh, in early Feb 08’. After being referred by my dermatologist to the Melanoma Clinic at Nth Sydney I had a few weeks to wait for my appointment and was scared and I was looking for something positive to keep my mind in order. 

I found this web site but unfortunately every story I read was very depressing with not a lot to look forward too. I would love to post something which can give hope to people that have received the same news as I did. The other research that I completed hinted that any growth of a nodular Melanoma over .74 of a mm is obviously very dangerous and life threatening.

After attending my appointment with the specialist I was left with many unanswered questions and decisions to be made. In this day and age of litigation, Doctors are unable to give advice on exactly what action should be taken next due to possible side effects. After much deliberation and discussion with family, Friends and other sufferers, I decided to take the aggressive path. Firstly, I had blood tests next I had the lymphogram to identify which lymph nodes would have been first in the chain. I then had day surgery to remove more tissue around where the Melanoma was removed, along with the first two lymph gland identified in the test.

All Pathology came back negative, allowing me to get my first proper nights sleep in months. Now I wait four months for my next appointment, but feeling very positive that I can look forward to a long, healthy future. Positive thoughts and stories can help relieve stress of the diagnosis and give hope of a full recovery.          

I hope this story can help others with something to look forward to.

Yours truly,
Darrick Amos