June 17, 2009

L is for my leg!


L is for my leg. 11 years ago, I was diagnosed with melanoma on my left leg. If you have doubts that God exists... then you need to continue reading my story. Little bit of background... Did I abuse the tanning beds in the 80's and 90's? Yep. A lot. Was this the cause of my cancer? I don't pretend to know the answer, but I'm certain it didn't help. My doctors in Ann Arbor, seem to think it was caused from hormones during my pregnancy...since I discovered it when Tommie was just three months old. Important to know: my melanoma was red. It was the size of this "." It looked like a sore under the skin that wasn't healing. Sitting on the couch, comparing my red dot to a medical journal I had, and annoying Brad with neurotic questions... I kid you not...a voice came strong, loud and clear in my head and said, "GET IT TAKEN CARE OF, IMMEDIATELY." Like most people, myself included...Brad told me I had too much time on my hands and needed to let it go. This voice was undeniable and one not to be ignored. The next day, I happen to get into a local dermatologist. His brushed it off. In fact, he really made me feel like a lunatic.. the doctor shook his head and said.. it was pointless to remove, he was certain it was nothing, and was trying to sell me on the idea that "I would have a scar!" I insisted. He sighed and I'm sure rolled his eyes. Two days later while on the treadmill, his nurse called me and said.. "you have malignant melanoma." Just like that. All alone, with just Tommie in his bouncy seat.. I called my mom to come over. Immediately, we called my cousin (the best ob/gyn) in the Detroit area...and she instantly connected me with M.D's at the Cancer clinic at U of M in Ann Arbor. Within a few days, I was undergoing surgery to remove margins to be tested. Including lung x-rays and blood work. All came back fine. It was caught extremely early... each doctor (and you see many in Ann Arbor) were interested in how I even could find such a small thing? I'm telling you...like I told them...It was the inner voice. The undeniable holy spirit. Had I not listened.. I wouldn't be here today. My symptoms were not the norm...my mole was red and the borders were even and symmetrical. But, it did itch. Which is a big sign. I live with a four-inch scar on my leg and it is beautiful. To me. smile, wink, nod.

2 comments:

Lisa said...

It's not often we get that undeniable voice, is it? Glad you listened!

Julie said...

Our God is an awesome God!