Sleeved in November, just diagnosed with Malignant Melanoma

[Kumbaice 44]

Hi before I had the sleeve I had a lot of heath issues . Finally Things medically settled down and I had a healthy window to have the surgery done. In Nov I was sleeved and right now down 35 pounds walking everyday. Finally my life is getting in order I am getting healthy.

Then I see my derm and have a changing mole biopsied and it came back Malignant Melanoma, I was like F---, right when things were going better for me . I go to the surgical oncologist on Friday to find out the plan. I am trying to stay on track but find myself grazing !!! Any helpful hints would be appreciated.

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[Berry78 4,261]

Congrats on the 35 pounds!

First off, remember the sleeve is giving you a very special year to lose your extra weight. A once in a lifetime opportunity! Use the opportunity to its fullest! When you get past the cancer scare, you will have a comfortable, healthy body in which to reside the rest of your long days....

Ok, now for the flip side... (Not PC, but I am not one to sugar coat things).

Worst case scenario, and you get extremely sick. If you are relatively small, you will find it easier to care for yourself, and it will be easier for the people that are assisting you to help.

You underwent the surgery to take control of your life. Do not let this obstacle rob you of your power during this most pivotal of moments!

2 paths lay before you... the one you designed for yourself (weightloss and better health), and the one that has suddenly appeared (mortal fear and self sabotage). Stick to your path. No matter where that path takes you (to good health or bad), you won't regret the journey.

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[pink pixel 9]

I am sorry that you are going through this, Kumbaice. You mentioned that before you got sleeved you had a lot of health issues so don't allow this current health issue to hold you back. Malignant melanoma can be successfully treated if caught early. The grazing is probably from anxiety. Keep your focus on the positive things you were doing before you got the diagnosis.

My very best advice is for you to seek the Lord regarding your health. In my darkest hours I have turned to Him and He has never failed me. Only God can take your anxiety and replace it with a peace that passes all understanding. God bless you, Kumbaice.

[Berry78 4,261]

Oh, and [hugs].

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[Clementine Sky 708]

*Hugs* I think most people would be riddled with anxiety and more likely to graze. You are probably doing so both out of self-comfort and a way of distracting yourself. If feasible, go on a walk, watch a TV show, take a relaxing bath, read a book, text with friends, engage in a hobby - anything to give your mind something else to do for a few moments instead of worrying. One of my colleagues began using adult coloring books as a way of coping with a distressing health diagnosis. It sounds a bit odd, but it's something that's soothing and keeps your hands busy so you're just munching away.

Keep healthy food on hand that you can graze on if necessary. For me, when I'm stressed out having a good snack helps to prevent with grazing. A yogurt that is high in Protein and lower in carbs, like Siggis or plain Fage (add a few berries in) or cheese cubes and nuts can be more filling, so you're less likely to have the room in your tummy to graze. Drinking Water, Crystal Light, tea, and the like might help as well.

Once you get your treatment plan I think knowing how you're going to proceed will be a comfort. Definitely talk with your oncologist about having the VSG and your concerns about your weight. Congratulations on your success thus far. You should be proud of yourself.

[jaynamy3 122]

Love and prayers to you!! Please keep us posted asap. We all really do care or we wouldn't be here posting to you. Xoxox

Amy☆☆☆

[2ndSpring 350]

((((hugs))) I am so sorry you have to go through this. I'm sure you will tackle it courageously, just like you did with your surgery.

You've gotten terrible news and you must be scared - and angry too. But the timing is good (post-sleeve) and that may bring you some small comfort. Your old eating habits would probably not have supported what your body needs now to be strong. Now you have the tool to be able to stay on track to eat healthy and fuel your body's immune system.

Please let us know what happens on Friday. We're sending positive thoughts your way.

[sarahblu 179]

You can do this! You are stronger then you realize!

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[Kumbaice 44]

Thank you all for the encouragement and tips!! I really am humbled by all your support!

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[blizair09 3,250]

My dad is going through a six month chemo regiment for Stage IV lymphoma right now, so I understand how you are feeling.

Cancer sucks. Period. So I suggest making your weight loss journey the positive to counteract the negative of the cancer. You'll feel good physically and mentally because of the progress you are making. And remember, you can't use food as a real comfort. It will only end up making you feel worse in the end. Keep working on changing your relationship with food. It is the sole route to success on this journey.

Best wishes!

[mikki42 2]

Sending prayers

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[shedo82773 1,236]

I can defintly frelate to what you are going thru, my hubby has been going to the VA for his medical treatment. They never told us that he had Cancer in his Kidney. They knew for 3 years before he was tiold. My hubby has struggled with his weight forever. He had a Lap Band that eroded into his liver. They were going to dp a Revision to a RNY but he ended up with abcesses and was so sick for 10 months, 3 of which he doesn't remember. HARD TIMES!! After he got his dignosis they told him that he needed to lose 150#'s before they can do anything for his Kidney. So we went to Mexico for his WLS. They couldn't do a RNY because of all the scar tissue he has. His whole right side is almost solid scar tissue. He is trying to lose it and he is well over half way. But it is like he takes 1 step forward AND 2 steps back!! I am so scared for him!! But I may not be a genuis but I do know he has to do this himself!! I try in every way to help him, and then he just eats stuff he knows isn't helping him. They told him if he did nothing he had 5 years with the lasdt 2 being hell!! It has been over 2 years now. If only he would take things as serious as I do. But that isn't his personality. I'm the worrier he is the happy go lucky guy. Hopefully, he will make up his mind and GET ER DONE!!!

[Kumbaice 44]

Shedo82773 such a scary thing you are going through with your husband. Were they able to da any surgery with your husband?


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[Kumbaice 44]

So Good news no spread to lymph nodes! I will have surgery March 2 with a graft or flap to fill in where they will take out the rest of the melanoma. Trying to stay focused and mindful of my eating. Yesterday I felt I was back on track and walked and made good choices. Thanks for all support!!!


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[Berry78 4,261]

That is great news! Congrats!

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