Hi there,

I know, it's so stressful. Try not to overthink it. It's important to remember that the majority of moles that are biopsied will come back as benign. Something like 90%+. Moles can become sore / crusty, but you did the right thing in getting it checked. I know someone who's mole became very itchy and started bleeding, only for it to come back as benign on biopsy. Surprising, because I'd have thought bleeding/itching was a definite red flag! Sometimes moles just behave weirdly, I suppose.

As someone who struggled with the wait, my advice is to not Google or read too much about it (including on forum posts). Speak to your GP if you find the struggle really difficult as they can sometimes prescribe short-term medicine to relieve anxious symptoms which might work for you. If you Google, you'll sometimes read something that isn't accurate, or is accurate but supposed to be interpreted by a medical professional in a more nuanced way, and your anxiety will end up spiraling.

During the wait, try to treat yourself if you can. I've been a bit more flexible with my budget to buy things I enjoy and treat myself to things I would normally save a bit more for!

The good news is that 26 is very young for something like this and as you say, you're careful in the sun. This isn't to say that you'll definitely be fine, but the odds are in your favour. Melanoma is generally something that happens in those aged over 40 (with incidence increasing the older you get). I myself am 29 and waiting for results now. I hate when people say, "You're young, so it will be ok," and I even had a dermatologist tell me this, but at the same time, it's important to recognise that statistically, odds are in my favour, and yours! So take what comfort from that that you can.

Hopefully everything goes OK for you on the 18th.