My game changer

I have really debated long and hard about sharing some things going on with me right now because I am not a huge fan of people fretting/worrying about me but I have decided to set those things aside and share for the fact that if someone hadn't decided to open their mouth and share a recommendation I very well could've lost my life. I know that may sound dramatic but it is unfortunately the truth. Awhile back a friend on FB recommended that everyone should go to the dermatologist and get a full body scan (you know who you are and thanks again :). For some time now I have had a nagging feeling about a few spots and needing to get them checked so when I read it my gut told me to go (I had no clue they even did these body scans). Anyways the dermatologist will check all your moles and sunspots for melanoma (cancer) and it is covered by most insurances as a preventative measure. So I go there, fill out my new patient paperwork, get examined by the doctor (3 actually), and they go ahead and cut one off to send in for biopsy. I was in and out of there in 10 minutes. This particular spot they cut off has been on me for I don't even know how many years and wasn't even one I was concerned about. It is on my left flank (side/back) and a place I actually don't get a lot of sun. When I left that day I knew it was cancerous (calling in 2 other doctors to check it and the gasps they all gave kindof gave it away). So the doctor called me last Tuesday to let me know it is a malignant melanoma. I go in for surgery on Wednesday to have more of my skin removed around the spot to hopefully remove  all the tumor. I guess malanoma grows into your skin and if left untreated spreads to other organs/lymph nodes. Early diagnosis is the key. My hope and prayer is that my surgery goes well on Wednesday, a huge lesson is learned, and I can get more educated and help educate others. I am 28 years old, healthier than I have ever been, and in some of the best shape of my life. None of us are exempt! I have been very ignorant about skin protection, it does not just happen to older people who have lived at the beach their whole lives. I am faced with a very real reality that if this surgery does not go well on Wednesday that I am possibly in stage 3. A very crushing thing since the treatment for it is straight poison and I have a husband and 4 kids relying on me. I know what it is like to lose a mom and the thought of my children going through that is heart crushing. Nobody will love them at the level I do, I want to be the one to raise them. I share this with you all to spread awareness of the matter. It is a very good idea to not procrastinate in getting yourself checked out and as our kids get older to have them checked. It is very easy and painless and could save your life. While I am holding on hope that I am cured on Wednesday without any additional treatment  this event is  a big life changer for me. I have been reminded of what's important and to enjoy every aspect of life. As quoted by Dieter F. Uchtdorf "How much of life do we miss waiting to see the rainbow before thanking God for the rain". Feel free to share this with everyone you love  to educate others on what is a very real possibility for us all. I will keep everyone updated as I get more results. I hope you all have a fantastic day today!!