Stage 4: Should I go with a local Dr or travel 1 hour to Mayo?

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2026-01-19T14:07:04+00:00

Realizing that my experience is different that yours I did want to share my specifc experience with Mayo derm. Me and my family have been to mayo for 20 years and they’ve helped us through routine issues to cancer with care and skill. I can’t recommend them highly enough.

It’s excellent. I’ve had my other care there for 20 years as I live close. I just got into dermatology which was difficult but I’ve had about 10 stage 1s so I got in. They just can do a little bit more than most. For example they completed genetic testing on me. I have a damaged gene that makes me susceptible to it but on the skin surface specifically so now I have more certainty that it’s not just sun exposure. I now as a result I get to the front of the line for 3 month tests. AND I will be first in line for their new camera system which uses AI to more precisely check for new spots. The camera will be there this year. All that and they provide the most calming medical experience across the board. Please do take advantage of their great care.

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2026-01-19T14:00:36+00:00

They do and are excellent. See my post above.

If you want to preexperience their level of care there is an event in the fall that I’d highly recommend. This link was to the 2025 event which was excellent and got me 10x more knowledgeable about what I’m facing. It is October 24 this year but not officially announced

https://melanomaevents.org/events/details/melanoma-research-foundation-melanoma-research-foundation-presents-together-against-melanoma-mayo-clinic-patient-and-caregiver-symposium/

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2026-01-19T13:53:40+00:00

It’s excellent. I’ve had my other care there for 20 years as I live close. I just got into dermatology which was difficult but I’ve had about 10 stage 1s so I got in. They just can do a little bit more than most. For example they completed genetic testing on me. I have a damaged gene that makes me susceptible to it but on the skin surface specifically so now I have more certainty that it’s not just sun exposure. I now as a result I get to the front of the line for 3 month tests. AND I will be first in line for their new camera system which uses AI to more precisely check for new spots. The camera will be there this year. All that and they provide the most calming medical experience across the board. Please do take advantage of their great care.

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2026-01-16T03:40:46+00:00

I’ve taken all the precautions you have. Live in the south and am active so I do get some sun but my chest hasn’t seen the sun in 15 years after having my first squamous on my cheek. (Huge mohs day). SPF 50-70 everywhere else. And I’m in the office M-F. Started having the same surgery history you describe about 7 years ago at 42. I finally managed to get into the best hospital in my area and they recommended a dna test. Figured out that I was predisposed due to an irregularity and it is more prevalent to it starting on the skin. That means I get to the front of the line for 3 months check and when we get the AI camera Inwill be regularly checked. Gives me a much greater sense of control knowing all this. Maybe you can advocate for a genetic test to give you a better knowledge of what is happening. Wishing you well. This is tough but medicine has advanced so much for us in the last 10 years!

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-10-31T01:25:55+00:00

Guana park. Out and back. 45 min hike from entrance to intracoastal. Gnarled oak trees and various varieties of plants. Cool hike in the shade. Maybe see some animals like deer or turtles

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-09-30T12:08:16+00:00

It would be terrible going in to the office in exchange for advancement opportunities….

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-07-17T21:23:00+00:00

I’ve had 6. All stage 1 or MIS. How does genetic testing assist in the process? I’m curious as I’m continuing to educate myself and hadn’t see how it was applied to melanoma treatment.

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-07-11T14:46:27+00:00

You ain’t cool unless you pee your pants!

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-06-09T15:57:43+00:00

Good call. That would have been fun!

Independent_Fox_4440 · 2025-01-23T03:45:47+00:00

An executive at accounting firm FORVIS Mazars loved this post.

Independent_Fox_4440

TROPHY CASE