Suziebird - diagnosed with malignant melanoma which has spread. Worried about the surgery I might have to have if my next one doesn't work. What could it be?

I’ve been diagnosed with malignant melanoma which has spread to soft tissue. I’ve had 2 surgeries to remove tumours from my calf and was told if this doesn’t work they will do another surgery but won’t tell me what it is. Could this be amputation? Anyone been through this?

  • Hello Suziebird

    I'm sorry to hear that you've been diagnosed with melanoma and that, following two surgeries, you're facing the possibility of another. 

    It must be so difficult having been told by the specialists that if this doesn't work, they will do another surgery but they won't explain further what this might be. Do you have a specialist nurse that you could contact to talk through your concerns with? If so then do give them a call. Explain that the suggestion of another possible surgery, but without clear answers, has left you feeling very worried, and you want some clarity regarding possible future treatment options. If you don't feel able to voice those questions and concerns to the specialists then is there someone who could attend an appointment with you for support? Alternatively, you can always reach out to the hospital PALS team. It's part of their role to help with health-related questions and help you with health-related questions. 

    If it might help to chat with one of our nurses for some advice and support, you're welcome to call them on 0808 800 4040, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. I know they will be happy to listen and help with any information and reassurance they can. 

    Hopefully this most recent surgery has been successful Suziebird and you won't need a further operation. Do keep in touch and let us know how you get on. We're here for you. 

    Best wishes, 
    Jenn
    Cancer Chat moderator