Melanoma is the deadliest and fastest growing form of skin cancer. My first brush with melanoma was when I was 28 years old and had a suspicious mole removed from my upper thigh/hip.  Fast forward 22 years.  I noticed a nearby lymph node was swollen in the summer of 2023. After a biopsy, I was diagnosed with stage 3, metastatic melanoma. Monthly immunotherapy IV infusions started in the fall of 2023.  I had surgery to remove the node in January of 2024 (pathology showed the immunotherapy had obliterated the melanoma!) and treatment concluded in November of 2024.  I will be monitored every three months with a scan and bloodwork, along with a visit with my amazing INOVA oncologist, but I am grateful to report that thus far, melanoma has been undetectable in my body.  

Every step matters.  Significant advancement has been made in the past few years in improved detection, new drug treatments and better survival rates. This progress has been built on the breakthroughs made fighting other types of cancers, as well as the existing foundation of melanoma research.

There is more to be done and a long way to go, but the finish line is in sight. The energy, enthusiasm and encouragement from patients, survivors, families, friends, caregivers, and the medical community impacts many lives and many future.

Step up and donate to Miles for Melanoma today.

Thank you!