Kirsten’s Melanoma Cancer Journey

Join us on an inspiring journey as we share Kirsten’s story from the moment she received her Melanoma cancer diagnosis to her remission. In this post, Kirsten opens up about her experience, revealing the challenges faced and the invaluable lessons she learned along the way.

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself

My name is Kirsten, I’m 52 years old and live in Biggera Waters. I actually grew up in Chirn Park, Southport.

2. What cancer were you diagnosed with and what was the process to get a diagnosis?

I was diagnosed with Ulcerated Malignant Melanoma. It was a colleague at work that noticed a serious type ooze on my uniform and when I looked closely there was a very obvious dark ulcerated-looking lesion on my chest wall. I went the next day to my regular skin clinic. That skin doctor basically told me it was nothing concerning, shaved it off in his rooms and said if there was anything to worry about I would hear from him in about a week. Next morning I was informed it was an Ulcerated malignant melanoma of great concern. The skin doctor recommended a Plastic surgeon who would deal with the removal of the same. As I had little faith at that time I approached a colleague who also happened to be a prominent Oncologist with a special interest in Melanoma for advice.

3. How did you feel after receiving the news and what did you do after diagnosis?

I was walking my dogs right past the very skin clinic that shaved off the lesion the day before, when I received a call to inform me that I had to come in immediately as I had returned a concerning result to be “discussed.” I remember feeling sick to my stomach, fear consuming me immediately. I happen to be a Clinical Nurse in Cancer and Blood disorders at GCUH so was very familiar with such diagnoses. I was fortunate I could discuss my diagnosis almost immediately with my colleagues which was most comforting. However, I was very emotional regardless of my experience in this specialty.

4. How did you come to receive treatment from Dr Hill and the Tasman Health Care team?

My GP agreed Dr Andrew Hill was a very well-researched Oncologist with a specific interest in Melanoma. A referral was made and I saw Dr Hill at Tasman Health soon thereafter. I was sent off to Dr John Gault who specialises I believe in both Melanoma and Breast Cancer surgery of varying types as per unique cases. I have been a patient of Dr Andrew Hill’s now for approximately 4.5 years. His treatment and care from diagnosis to current have been second to none. He probably saved my life thus far.

5. What advice would you give someone going through treatment of the cancer you had?

Do your research on both Doctors who specialise in your type of cancer and treatment options; get a second opinion if you feel necessary and go with your intuition. Furthermore, don’t listen to everyone’s stories, for each case is unique and managed/treated differently. There are some amazing outcomes in many cancer journeys, it is definitely not all bad news. Find a support person, even one to help you through the Cancer rollercoaster. It’s hard to negotiate alone.

6. Is there anything you took for granted prior to your treatment that you really appreciate now you’re in remission?

Yes, don’t sweat the small stuff. As cliché’as it sounds, life is short; have fun and forget the rest. It’s your journey, only take those on it with you that are unconditional and important to you.

7. Would you like to share anything else that could help someone going through cancer treatment?

Cancer in it’s entirety can prove somewhat isolating regardless of well-meaning people that cross your path in the process and try to assist. It can play games with your head and weigh heavy on your heart. Obviously to be expected in such circumstances. Unless you are walking in those shoes, who are we to judge? It’s okay to have bad days and it’s fantastic to enjoy the good ones. Find something that allows you to just ‘be’. For me it was lots of long walks with my gorgeous pooch, Rose, listening to any and every genre in the world of podcasts and music. Bliss.