littlun1066's Cancer Blog
March 10, 2008
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Cancer is a funny thing – it can change your world in so many ways, both good and bad. I was diagnosed with a rare eye cancer called choroidal melanoma two days before my 24th birthday in 2003. At the time, I was scared but it was all a bit dreamlike. If I had known then what I know now, I would have lost the plot!
At the time I was in a 5 month old relationship and working in retail. The diagnosis was followed by a breast cancer scare when a lump was found in my breast during the staging process. I had FNA, core biopsies and a lumpectomy before they finally realised it was benign. Unfortunately, all the talk of cancer and chemo was too much for my boyfriend and he dumped me.
I was devastated but ploughed on with my work and climbed the management ladder quickly where, a year later I met my current partner. He has been there for me ever since and supported my decision to step down and go part-time at work so that I could go to University and do a BSc degree in Therapeutic Radiography.
I am due to graduate in June of this year at which point I will be a fully qualified Therapy Radiographer and will spend my career treating cancer patients using radiotherapy. I am honoured to be able to give something back!
As for my cancer, last Thursday was the 5th Anniversary of my diagnosis and I have had to have some laser treatment as it’s still growing in places. Still, I’m not doing too badly considering it was touch and go as to whether they were going to treat or just remove my eye! Apparently, they thought it was too big and diffuse, but they decided to try the radiotherapy and spare my eye if they could – for which I’m very grateful. Having to remove my eye is still a possibility, and I’m always on the lookout for signs of metastatic spread (probably a bit too paranoid, truth be told!) but for now I just need to concentrate on graduating!
08.22.08 - 
Thanks for your support -
Good for you! I am so happy to hear about people who flip cancer the bird and go on with their lives!
Welcome and prayers to you for health and peace.
Mac
I am very proud to hear that you are giving back.
This is the way we take care of each other and our selves.
Hug Sherri
Hi, My mother had a melanoma cancer on her upper arm but I never realized you could have a melanoma of the eye. And then on top of that to have breast cancer. I am so sorry.
I don’t understand how anyone can be as unfeeling as your boyfriend was. Such a shame. I am so happy that you found someone better.
I salute you for being strong and continuing on. You are a brave lady.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Hang in there. Love and hugs, Joyce