Research Makes a Difference with Melanoma

I remember when I was first diagnosed with melanoma in June 1988. There were not many treatment options offered to me. Basically the only thing that I discussed with my doctor that summer’s day in Pasadena, California, was a surgical procedure that would leave a wound on my left forearm so large that it could not be closed. Thankfully, that treatment was enough.

We have come a long way during the past 35 years. Sure, excision and clear margins are a huge part of treatment but immunotherapy regimens have been a life saver for so many. Research has made a huge difference for decades. This makes me very happy. I feel like I have been a part of this.

I have made a difference

How so? For years, I have helped raise money to support cancer research. Walkathons, bikeathons, personal fundraisers, they are making a difference with skin cancer. I always wondered if they would. I could see the tangible benefits of supporting prevention and diagnosis efforts but funding research seemed a little nebulous. Who exactly was getting paid with my donations and what were they doing to make a difference? I pictured people in lab coats with test tubes and beakers mixing chemicals and such, conducting experiments. Now, I know it’s making a difference. I am heartened to hear reports of those who have benefited from the research efforts of past generations. And it doesn’t seem to be ending here.

Melanoma vaccine

I read about recent research efforts in the development of a promising melanoma vaccine that is proving highly effective especially when combined more established immune boosters.¹ Without going into too much scientific and medical detail, it appears that significant progress is being made. So much so that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is fast tracking it for further research. The FDA is now recognizing that melanoma is a significant public health risk and is worthy of special status when it comes to developing a vaccine. As far as vaccines go, my view is that with reasonable precautions and in depth studies, there can be a benefit, which outweighs the risk. That’s just my view. As a melanoma survivor, I am looking for anything that will give me an edge without putting me at risk for other maladies.

I am encouraged because those 33 mile bikeathon rides were not easy. Those grueling days in the searing heat were worth it. My advocacy was worth it. Those long drives to Albany to lobby for safer tanning for children at salons was worth it. If even one person’s life has been saved, then it was all worth it. The recent developments in a melanoma vaccine have given me a renewed energy to continue this fight for the benefit of subsequent generations. Research makes a difference. In my mind, it is now a tangible piece of the equation when it comes to fighting skin cancer.

Who knows where this could lead? Keep riding those bikes.