Hi Esme,

I can understand your panic, especially being so far away from home. However, try not to think worse case scenario. Firstly, a new lesion/mole that turns into melanoma doesn't usually happen overnight, even a nodular melanoma (it appears & then usually changes quickly over weeks & months, not a few days). If the mole/lesion wasn't there before, there are other skin conditions it could possibly be, especially if the skin has been badly sun damaged. Have you been bitten by anything? When I was in NZ I was bitten and it left behind a hard lump - turns out it was a dermatofibroma which is totally benign. My dermatologist found 2 others on my legs - these occur mainly on the legs where insects/mossies etc are attracted. 

I encourage you NOT to look at Google - the information is old & it focuses on worse case scenarios so it just heightens anxiety. Try to distract yourself until Tuesday & then the dermatologist will have a clearer picture. Meanwhile, take advice about sun safety, especially in New Zealand. Burning may have caused the lesion but it's very doubtful it would cause melanoma in a matter of days. Most melanoma caused by UV damage happens after a few years, that's why it's especially important that children & young people take care in the sun. My burnt shin (where I had a mole from birth) caused my melanoma 10 years later.

Good luck on Tuesday & please let us know how you get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient since 2009)

Hi Angie

That is such a kind and comforting response, thank you. 

I definitely could have been bitten, I've been out in the bush where it's sandfly heaven (although usually they itch like crazy and this lesion I'm worried about doesn't). But thank you for giving me a less worst-case scenario perspective, that is really supportive and just what I need right now to try and challenge the panic.

I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis and wish you all the best.

Hi Angie

That is such a kind and comforting response, thank you. 

I definitely could have been bitten, I've been out in the bush where it's sandfly heaven (although usually they itch like crazy and this lesion I'm worried about doesn't). But thank you for giving me a less worst-case scenario perspective, that is really supportive and just what I need right now to try and challenge the panic.

I'm sorry to hear of your diagnosis and wish you all the best.