On April 1, 2025 I was diagnosed with Melanoma.  After undergoing a WLE (Wide Local Excision) and SLNB (Sentinel Lymph Node Biopsy) where a lesion was removed from my left cheek, and 8 lymph nodes removed from my neck, my diagnosis became even more real with a melanoma stage of 2C.  With this staging, the cancer had not spread, but the lesion was deep enough to warrant what is referred to as adjuvant therapy.  Adjuvant therapy is a preventative treatment which consists of Keytruda infusions every 21 days for one year to kill off any potential microscopic cancer cells.  While side effects from Keytruda vary, mine have been mostly mild.  Fatigue, hypothyroidism, skin irritation, achy joints, and lack of appetite.

If you?re able to join us for a walk, donate to my team, or even send prayers and good vibes, I?d greatly appreciate it.

Below is more about Melanoma and the mission:

Every step matters and every step counts. 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 or join our team today!