QuestionI just read an answer you gave to a woman who just found out she has non-hodgkin's lymphoma, and found that you have cancer as well. In my family, my father, maternal aunt, paternal great aunt, paternal great uncle (possibly 2 or 3), maternal grandfather, and various other relatives have all had cancer. Currently, my father (stage iv melanoma), grandfather (non-hodgkin's lymphoma) and aunt (inflammatory breast cancer) are going through it a second time. I have two questions for you.
FIRST, I prefer preventative medicine. Is there anything I can do to lower my chances of getting cancer? I don't drink alcohol (never have), coffee, tea, very rarely have carbonated drinks and juices. I try to eat healthy (whole wheat bread, fruits and veggies, white meats, etc...). I am not a fanatic, but I try to exercise at least 3 times a week. I don't smoke or do drugs - never have, never will! Is there anything else I can do to avoid cancer???
SECOND... my father has stage iv melanoma with tumors all over his body. He recently found out he has lesions in his brain. Everything I read on the internet says prognosis is not good for him. As you do work in the medical field, and are currently going through cancer yourself, do you know of any new studies, clinical trials, surgeries that might help him? I'm looking for ANYTHING that might help him. Even if you think it's a longshot or if you think it's just common sense, or common knowledge... we don't have all the same resources and the internet is a little too helpful in this area sometimes!
Last, I just want to wish you well in your own recovery. Cancer is a scary thing to deal with - I don't know from personal experience, but I've seen what my family has been through. I admire you for continuing to come here and offer advice and support to others in need. My prayers are with you.
AnswerHi Maria,
First, thank you for your kind words.
Unfortunately stage 4 melanoma with spread to the brain leaves little in the way of therapy. His chances for survival are essentially nil.
You have a significant family history of cancer. You seem to be doing all the right things that you can for prevention. Alas, you are at higher than normal risk of getting cancer by virtue of your genetic connection. I would strongly recommend that you have annual physical exams and any testing that is indicated so a cancer can be caught early and successfully treated.
My intent is not to scare you but to impress upon you the importance of checkups despite your very healthy of life style.
