My journey began with a very small, brown spot on my nose that looked like an age/sun spot. My “spot” did not itch or burn and was asymptomatic, other than the fact that it would not go away. As a former sun-worshiper, I was no stranger to these “spots”, but I put off seeing my dermatologist until AFTER a holiday trip to Mexico because I didn’t want a small scar on my nose for the trip.
My biopsy indicated the presence of melanoma, but early stage 1. Within a couple of Weeks, Dr. Jerome Potozkin performed the surgical procedure to ensure all margins were clear. Looking at my face right after the procedure made me feel scared and anxious, and wondering if I would ever look the same. The procedures the doctors were discussing for reconstruction sounded barbaric, and I found myself wondering how such a small spot could cause such major surgical procedures to repair. But I knew the journey had just begun.
Seven days later, I went under general anesthesia for the 1st of several surgeries. Dr. Jonathan Sykes, my plastic surgeon, utilized cartilage from my ear and a skin graft flap from my forehead to rebuild my nostril. My “trunk” provided a live feed to help regrow my nose and allow the cartilage to settle into the open space. This “trunk” remained on my face for 3 weeks, which was painful and humiliating. I went back to my doctor every 2-3 days to ensure there was no infection and to clean the wounds. I was terrified to leave the house during this time. After the removal of my “trunk” and 9 months of healing, I went back to see Dr. Sykes for another reconstruction.
The entire process, from the “sun spot” on my nose to the photo you see here, took one year. I am grateful to Dr. Potozkin for the early detection. It could have been so much worse. I am grateful to my plastic surgeon, Dr. Sykes for reconstructing my face. I am grateful to be sharing my story with you today. If my story motivates you to call your board-certified dermatologist today to make your annual skin exam appointment, then my heart is full.
Cindy has been cancer free for 2 years and continues to have her skin checked every three months, as early detection is key.
2 Comments
Betty Hall
Hi Cindy ,
Thank you for sharing your story and for being an advocate helping spread the word of Skin Cancer. I hope you will read my own journey.
Thank you
Betty
http://justthoughtsonablog.blogspot.com/p/my-skin-cancer-journal.html?m=1
Mary Louise Hunt
Cindy is And honor to read your story and see the photos of your treatment and recovery. You are brave to share.
I hope your openness will impress some younger people especially to protect themselves in the sun. I am fortunate at 79 years of age to have A few scars after surgery for three different kinds of skin cancer. Thank you very much.