isn't that cancer?
i don't sit in the sun.
i overheat and seek shade.
i wear spf.
i use an umbrella or wear a hat.
my grandmother had the most
beautiful
alabaster skin and
lived into her 90s,
my grandfather had many
many
health issues,
skin cancer being one of them.
are you sure?
i have basal cell carcinoma.
Earlier this year, I noticed a new spot on my face. I don't wear make-up, so it's easy to identify any changes that stare back from the mirror. I do not recall seeing this one. I had a facial in May and asked her to slough it off. She could not. I then scheduled an appointment with the dermatologist - couldn't get in to see him, however, until early August. So I waited. And watched. Nothing changed, but it didn't get better or go away either. Last fall I had also made an appointment with the dermatologist for a baseline body check. I do not recall this spot prior to six months ago.
It didn't appear to be hormonal blood vessels, didn't change color when depressed. He comments that I have a high tolerance for pain when he injects a numbing agent into my cheekbone. Biopsy and a band-aid. I'm done.
Two weeks later. A phone call. I have basal cell carcinoma. The good news? It's not melanoma. Still, it's skin cancer. No biggie, right? Gosh, I sure hope so.
The clinic to which I've been referred calls me this morning. They had a cancellation next Tuesday, did I want it? I will be having Mohs Micrographic Surgery, with reconstruction the same day. {thankful for health insurance} I am not freaking out. Just another chapter in my life, right?
It may be time to remind the boys about skin cancer, however, as I educate them that there are different kinds. They love the sunshine. I mean LOVE the sunshine. Who doesn't? However, even the smartest, shadow-minded person can end up with skin cancer. I just did.
my newest hat w/spf 50 |
And in case you haven't seen this dear 16-year old me video that has been circulating for quite some time, give it a moment of your time. Share. Educate. It could save a life or change a {bad} habit.
Gosh Julie, hope you are 100% "good as new" after micro surgery. We pray for that. Love and hugs from your Norwegians :)
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