Hi Rachel32,

I'm sorry that you have a referral about your lump and you're worrying it may be melanoma. My melanoma was on my shin, 23 years ago. Although it returned a few years ago I am still here, fit & healthy, and I know many other melanoma patients who are the same so please don't panic. 75% of patients referred to dermatology get a clean bill of health so the chances are that you will be the same. Having a basal cell carcinoma in no way affects your chances of going on to have a melanoma (although the reverse does apply) so don't worry if you've been thinking this may be the case. 

Treatment & research is making great strides so that melanoma is becoming more treatable & having promising results. If you would like to chat at all about your concerns or just for advice please send me a friend request & I'm happy to help. Good luck with your appointment & please let us know how you get on,

Angie (Stage 3 melanoma patient)

Thanks Angie. I've got a very rare skin condition that makes me susceptible to skin cancer, although the very little research into the condition suggests that's it's BCC rather than melanoma, so I'm quite worried. The mark has been there a good few years too (started off as a hair straightener burn that has mutated). 

Fearing the worst..