More bad news (what else would it be, lol)

Got initial pathology back from scalp biopsy. Definitely some type of skin cancer, will be my 3rd on my scalp, 5th cancer total. Due to the ultra rare porocarinoma's I have had (3x), doctor is sending it off for a higher level 2nd opinion. We are to meet on July 17th to discuss final outcome.

If its a common skin cancer, can probably be totally removed without too much fuss. if it is the "poro" again , highly likely it would involved another complex scalp surgery like I had in 2000. Be more difficult this time, because the growth is on the grafted area of the previous surgery.

I wasn't remotely shocked, my personal guess was 90% cancer just due to my history in that area.

Still waiting for the pathology on the cheek tumor that was removed, VA said it may take another 1-2 weeks to get an answer. That one concerns me quite a bit.

Worse part of both of these, is that there is no safe secondary treatment if the one, or both are cancer, as surgeon said he would veto any attempt to do radiation or chemo in either of the areas. Too risky.

David, I'm so sorry about this recent news. You have always been a supporter of others since I've posted here. Ron and I are thinking about you and all you've gone through. Other than the vertigo, he's doing better. We're looking forward to celebrating Cancer Free - 5 years, next month. Take care and God bless you!

Hugs,
Aimzee

thanks all.

aimzee, does make me happy to hear about your ron. and being cancer free for nearly 5 years, that is really great news.

I am always uplifted by other's good news here at HW. wish it would turn my way for once, but it is what it is. cancer - sucks, for any of us. but it's the part of so many people's daily life, after all these years with my various cancers, just seems to be destined for me to live like this. no point getting distressed or angry or even cynical about it - sure wouldn't help anything.

In my youngest adult years, I was heavily exposed to a lot of carcinogenic agents on a daily basis, back before there were proper warnings or precautions in the work place. When you are like early 20's you never really think 30-40 years ahead, and what those things might do to your body one day. I suspect these exposures played a direct role in my multiple cancers, can't prove. That, and all the radiation damage.

David - though I am not a religious man, I nominate you as the Job of Healing Well / Prostate. You're an inspiration: so many trials - no self-pity, no recrimination. Thank you - I think you help folks with fewer cancer challenges stay positive. I read all your posts, wish you the best.

David,

So sorry about the latest report. You have and are going through so much, but you are a strong man. I remember when I first logged on to HW and you were so comforting! I'll never forget you and you are on my daily prayer list! Take care my friend.

Dave

David,

Sorry to read of your continuing bad news. Thinking about your situation, I almost hate to bring this up, but, have you considered the possibility of proton beam radiation to re-irradiate the sites of your recurring tumors? This is one area where proton beam radiation does have an advantage, and before you write off any possibility of radiation treatment, you ought to consider consulting with a proton knowledgeable RO at one of the proton centers that uses the pencil beam technology, such as MDA or Shands (Univ. of Florida). I have just recently read at least two different studies online that have evaluated the use of proton beam therapy for re-irradiation of previously treated areas. It can be done in certain situations, and if you have no other options, you might want to consult with the folks at one of these centers.

Wishing you the best.

Steve

David, I have been wondering about you and praying you are comfortable with relatively little pain. God bless you. *HUGS*

David's email is no longer available, but he has let it be known he lives in South Carolina.

Mpac1,

I guess David missed your post. Yes, he lives in South Carolina.

Bill from Florida