They removed my cancer in 2004, and I was convinced it would come right back and I'd be gone. It still hasn't come back, even though I still think it will, but after a while you just get used to it and don't dwell.

Damn it Hiram. Here's wishing you continued and steadfast resolution moving forth. You speak with great fortitude Sir.

Kudos Sir.

When my doctor called me at 9 PM and said that he had spotted a growth in my kidney and was referring me to a caner specialist I was scared to death, when I talked to the doctor at the Levine cancer center he said that the mass was small and he was sure that it was contained and he could remove it all. before the operation I made sure my will was up to date and my wife had all of my insurance policy's and financial info . the operation went well, they use a surgical robot to remove it , and I had no complications. my 6 month checkup was clean and I am scheduled for my yearly checkup next month , I still worry that they will find out that it came back, it will probably always be on my mind but I don't dwell on it. I have 5 years of yearly CT scans and blood tests to look forward to but I am confident that they can handle anything that comes up.

You either decide to live with cancer or you don't.

I'm going on four years since my diagnosis (metastatic carcinoid syndrome), and surgery. They took 6-7 feet of intestines, 2/3rds of my liver, gall bladder, and my appendix. They weren't able to get it all. I have to go in for a round of chemo every 28 days, watch the foods that I eat, take my meds like I'm suppose too, etc.... In other words I'm reminded of it every day. I will never be in remission, I will never be cured, and we think it has spread but we don't really know for sure at this time.

Most people look at me and have no idea what's going on with my health. I still run (most days of the week), do yard work, go kayaking, fishing, and diving. I also still get sick from time to time.

I remind myself that in 138 days the wife and I have a trip to the island of Bonaire for a weeks worth of diving. I remind myself that in October of 2019 we have a two week trip to the Galapagos Islands planned. Somewhere in between Bonaire and the Galapagos we'd like to go to Mexico for a week of cave diving. The caves in Mexico really are spectacular and I want to see them. Our trip to Japan in going to be a couple of years after Galapagos.

Having distant goals helps a lot and gives you something to look forward too and prepare for.

You can go out every day and dwell on the fact that you have cancer and let it dominate your life. Or, you can make your life and let it dominate your cancer.

Let's put this in perspective then: You're essentially cured, but since melanoma is a mutherfuqr, so there's that unpredictable issue....BUT, statistically you are more likely to die from a car crash than your melanoma. Fact. Yet I suspect you will drive your car this week? What always cracks me up is the pack a day smoker who fixates on a non-aggressive low-grade skin cancer--OP, I hope you aren't one.

I tell patients with basal cell skin cancer or early the same thing. In some instances with early cancers. Consider it a wake up & be diligent, wear sunscreen & f/u with your doctor.

Be sure you're seeing a board certified doctor who follows recommended skin check--and don't forget the monthly self-checks.