Bruce Wayant
I was diagnosed with Choroidal (eye) melanoma nine years ago and a melanoma on my neck eight and a half years ago.
My experience began innocently enough when I noticed blurry vision in my right eye. One night I asked my wife if I looked different because I had shaved off all of my right eyebrow in a feeble attempt to improve my sight! My wife wasn’t pleased, especially when I brought up getting new glasses, despite the fact that my current pair was only a few months old. She suggested an eye exam and our optometrist was able to fit me in right away. He thought I had a simple detached retina and referred me to an ophthalmologist. After a quick drive to KC for a LONG day of tests and meetings, I was told I had a large cancerous tumor on my right eye and could anticipate only 2 to 3 months of life. Doctors told me they would be able to manage pain with medication, but there was nothing they could do.
My wife and I quickly made the decision to have my eye removed in hopes we could stop the predicted spread of the disease. After surgery, I was faced with more tests. Unbelievably, the cancer did not move to my liver as predicted and we returned to our lives. We had always exercised and maintained a healthy diet, but became even more diligent. Things were moving smoothly, until my dermatologist found and removed a large melanoma from my neck. I now have more doctors and annual checkups than I have ever had in my life! However, other than having a few small skin cancer issues, I have been cancer free for about eight and a half years now.
Melanoma is a scary and life-altering disease. My family and I faced it with tears, prayer and support from numerous people. We have chosen to look for positives. We have crossed paths with people who have enriched our life. I have a ton of very bad one-eyed jokes, and constantly tell people I have my eye on them! We have learned there are things to get upset about and other things to let go. We preach to everyone the importance of wearing sunscreen, hats and protective clothing.
