Another week, another dilemma. The most recent visit with the Dermatologist resulted in 8 areas being frozen off and one area on the left leg being biopsied. Just received the call from the Dermatologist I was expecting and ready for. The biopsy is again positive. Since the Interferon therapy I have had 4 basal cell carcinomas surgically removed. Basal Cell lesions seem to live very comfortably right along with their big bad brother Melanoma. This one is also basal cell carcinoma. It seems to be one of the "wonderful" side effects of Interferon. Now it is time again to decide whether to have the lesion surgically removed or watch it carefully for any further growth. The biopsy margins were not clear, but I have had 4 surgeries in 8 months and frankly can't even contemplate the thoughts of another.

Although I know that this will be a life long ordeal, the difference between knowing this and accepting this is worlds apart. I have spent the last couple of weeks trying to retrain my mind to think and not anticipate. This is a herculean task. Anxiety tends to walk the same path as the melanoma medical regime. From constant testing and Doctors appointments to the fatigue and worry, even an educated mind can get caught up in the "what ifs".

Dealing with the constant change in body image is a struggle even at my age. The increasingly numerous scars, the changes in body shape due to lymphedema and the inability to exercise all contribute to the multi-faceted complexities of this dreaded disease.

So, the saga will continue and I am grateful for the opportunity to contemplate the saga. I could have easily been on the other end of this dreaded disease named Melanoma with no options and no time. I have been blessed with the option of treatment and hope for a future, never taking for granted my life journey.

Whatever path this saga takes me down, I pray for the strength to cope with dignity and grace through the maze that defines medical technology and the life of a cancer survivor.