Hi,My name is Kim.I live just outside of Austin, Texas & am
originally from the nw suburbs of Chicago.
About 1 1/2 yrs ago my dh and I noticed an odd looking mole on our 5
yo dd's arm, it was changing rapidly. Because we were so sure of the
rapid changes the dermatologist removed it & a week later confirmed
our fears...she had melanoma insitu...the very beginning stages of
melanoma. We were blessed to have caught it so early...so far, only
that one surgery has been necessary. She goes in every few months
for check ups. Because of the skin cancer, asthma & other health
issues she missed about 2 months of school last year, so we've
decided to homeschool her. Because of the uv index being so high
here, we don't go out much during the day, and when we do, it's tons
of sunscreen and protective clothes(when it's not too hot!).
It's been scary and stressful, for her and us...we used to, we
thought, be good about sunscreen...& no one can tell us why a 5 yr
old would get this or if she'll get it again.
She's the second youngest patient her doctor has had with this
disease, Has anyone else dealt with this out there? Heard of anyone
else? Sorry this is so long. Thank you. Kim