• Home
  • About
  • Contact
  • Categories
    • Travel
    • Decor
    • Divorce
    • Family
    • Fashion
    • Fitness
    • Food
    • Giveaways
    • Parenting
    • Pregnancy
    • Reviews
  • Shop My Looks
  • SHOP MY AMAZON STORE
  • Want More?

Happily Hughes

Parenting•Reviews

My Melanoma Diagnosis

June 9, 2016

First of all, thank you so much for your kind words!  I’ve received so many emails, texts, calls, etc and I am so thankful to have the lot of you in my corner.    I’ve also gotten a lot of questions about how I received my diagnosis, how I knew to go in etc so I’m sharing it all here. mymelanomadiagnosis2

My Melanoma Diagnosis- How I was diagnosed with Stage 1 Melanoma and what the next steps are.

My Melanoma DIagnosis

Yup. Me in college- dyed my hair brown and WAY too much tanning

So let me start by saying- in college I was a tanning bed user.  For 3 years I went every week during the Fall-Spring.  And during the summer I would lay out with the girls with no sunscreen on.  I’m a fair blonde with blue eyes- definitely not a smart move.  What made it even more silly is my mother is a Dermatology Nurse.  She’d been telling me for YEARS the dangers of tanning.  I didn’t listen.  I had that whole invincibility belief going on- like most college kids.  After college my Derm found a severe dysplasia on my back, and that ended my tanning habits.  I started using sunscreen and only doing organic spray tans.  Too little too late my friends. 

My Melanoma DIagnosis

About a month ago I noticed a mole growing on the back of my arm.  I showed it to my mom, who got me in right away.  We were both thinking it would be another severe dysplasia.  Two weeks later the doctor called me back with the diagnosis- Stage 1 Melanoma.  Because of it’s depth (.98) and aggressive tendencies (it gets more medical here but they can see in a biopsy if the cells are duplicating at a fast rate and mine were) they had me schedule surgery for the 22nd of this month.  I will be having a rather large chunk of my upper arm taken out, as well as some lymph nodes to be cautious.  

While I will be out of commission for a bit, not to mention in a little pain, this is small potatoes to what it could have been.  We caught it early and I am very blessed with a spectacular support system.  That being said, I am begging every single one of you to get to the dermatologist.  Please.

Here are some great resources to learn about skin cancer and melanoma: 

SkinCancer.org

MayoClinic.com 

National Cancer Institute

parenting reviews skin cancer

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Allison says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:13 am

    Thank you for sharing this, sweet lady! I was an avid tanning bed user in college and had recently considered going back (although I know better), but your diagnosis was the wake up call I needed! Prayers for you!

  2. Joleen says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:32 am

    Thank you for sharing this reminder, love! Praying for you!

  3. Samantha says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:36 am

    So happy everything was caught early. I had a mole removed and nothing came of it but I’m always nervous that there are other moles on my body that weren’t checked that should have been. I worked at a tanning salon and tanned everyday pretty much. Scary stuff! Praying for you lady!

  4. Caroline says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:45 am

    Thank you so much for sharing! I am a huge advocate of the derm too as my husband has had skin cancer and every 6 months we both have suspicious spots removed. Thanks for advocating. I hope your surgery goes well.

  5. Chrissie Em says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:52 am

    Thank you for sharing your story! I’ll be showing this to my daughters as I can never emphasis the risks enough. I’m hoping your post will help that. Thanks again 🙂

  6. Erica @ Coming Up Roses says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:56 am

    Sending you prayers + thank God they found it early!! And thank you for sharing this message and call to action. I think it’s SO important that people recognize the dangers of tanning!!

    Coming Up Roses

  7. Lindsay says

    June 9, 2016 at 8:57 am

    I’m so happy this was caught early Jessica, and thank you for sharing your story and for spreading awareness of the importance of skin safety. Lots of love and prayers your way.

  8. Jenny says

    June 9, 2016 at 9:01 am

    One of my good blogging friends has been melanoma (cancer) free for 5 years now. I am glad you were able to catch it early before it progressed any further. I am very cautious of being in the sun too much so hopefully that helps me.

    xoxo, Jenny

  9. Leslie says

    June 9, 2016 at 9:10 am

    Sending lots of prayers as you go into surgery! I’m glad you caught it early but thank you for sharing your story. Melanoma affect a lot of people including my great grandma and my dad. I preach it to my son (he’s 13 and knows everything now) about the importance of using sunscreen. Even my Puerto Rican husband uses sunscreen because melanoma can really get to anyone!

  10. Sandy Mangis says

    June 9, 2016 at 10:07 am

    I am praying for you. My husband had a large chunk of his thigh taken out from cancer and he is doing good.

  11. Rachel says

    June 9, 2016 at 10:11 am

    Sending prayers your way and hoping for a speedy recovery!

    Rachel / http://www.seashellsandsparkles.com

  12. Shann says

    June 9, 2016 at 12:30 pm

    So scary and such a great reminder. I’ve been putting it off for so long, but I really need to go. Thank you, and I pray for the best for you.

  13. Sarah McDonald says

    June 9, 2016 at 1:09 pm

    Melanoma scares the heck out of me, I used to love to sit outside in the sun and read but now I don’t take any chances.

    I’m glad you caught it early and best of luck with your surgery!

  14. Shelly from www.theperfectlyimperfectwoman.com says

    June 9, 2016 at 3:11 pm

    Woah. This is definitely eye opening! I have had several spots removed, but (knock on wood), they have not been named the big M. You are far to young and beautiful for this, and I admire your strength and optimism. Prayers for a smooth surgery and a super fast recovery!!! ❤️

  15. Rachel G says

    June 9, 2016 at 6:18 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear that you’re going through this–I hope the surgery goes very well for you and that, as far as it can be, it’ll be cured without any complications.

  16. Ashleigh says

    June 9, 2016 at 10:56 pm

    I’m so sorry to hear what you’re going through, however, I’m so happy you found it early!! I also tanned in beds for years, as well as never wore sunscreen (and I was a swimmer!). I fear what lasting consequences I’ve caused myself. I love that you’re bringing awareness to this topic!! I wish you all the best for your up coming surgery and a speedy recovery!!

  17. Amanda says

    June 9, 2016 at 10:57 pm

    I think a lot of people go through that invincibility stage. Fortunately I did not, but I know too well the dangers of various types of cancer, both from those who have had it and gone into remission and others who have lost the battle. It’s definitely important to take the best care of yourself possible to minimize your risk, and realize that the damage is cumulative. Thanks for sharing your experience.

  18. Jasmine says

    June 10, 2016 at 7:24 am

    So good that you went in when you did! Sending lots of healing prayers!

  19. Trisha says

    June 10, 2016 at 8:21 am

    Love your openness. Thanks for sharing

  20. Rica@Yoga Mat Monkey says

    June 10, 2016 at 10:41 am

    Wow, I am so sorry but at the same time I think there are some positives here. You have shared this information and perhaps in turn helped others see the importance of taking caution and using proactive measures. Thank you. I wish you all the best.

  21. Bread says

    June 12, 2016 at 5:20 am

    Good luck with the operation. I wear factor 30 or 50 at all times, but I struggle to get my wife to wear sunscreen sometimes.

  22. Kerry says

    June 13, 2016 at 9:56 am

    I was an avid tan bed user for many years in high school and college as well. This scares me because I’m also light skinned and blond. I’ll be making a dermatologist appointment soon! Prayers coming your way friend. I’m glad you caught it early.

  23. S says

    June 18, 2016 at 6:56 pm

    saying prayers for you!! I’ve been too careless with my tanning as well and Im so scared of the same thing happening to me. thank you for sharing your story and getting the word out on how important it is to be safe and to keep checking on things.

Trackbacks

  1. Keep Your Glow This Summer Without Damaging Your Skin says:
    June 17, 2016 at 8:54 pm

    […] friend and fellow Atlanta blogger, Jessica, over at Happily Hughes made a big announcement last week. She was diagnosed with stage one melanoma. Thank goodness her mother is a dermatology […]

  2. Our Nursing Journey with Ergobaby | Happily Hughes says:
    July 11, 2016 at 6:41 am

    […] that.  After a couple of tries she got it and we we’re golden!Then I got diagnosed with melanoma.  They had to perform surgery pretty quickly to inhibit it from spreading, so two weeks later […]

  3. Our Nursing Journey with Ergobaby | Happily Hughes says:
    July 11, 2016 at 6:41 am

    […] that.  After a couple of tries she got it and we we’re golden!Then I got diagnosed with melanoma.  They had to perform surgery pretty quickly to inhibit it from spreading, so two weeks later […]

Previous Patio Lights with Jasco (Giveaway)
Next Stroller Workout with BOB Duallie and Onzie

Like This? You'll Also Like These:

Natural Remedies for Teething- Tips and Tricks Thursday...

Sun Care Tips

Breathe Right Review

Breathe Right Review

Milos Cafe Style Tea

Relaxing with Milo’s Cafe Style Tea

Primary Sidebar

Hello!

looking for something?

Search This Blog

SHOP MY AMAZON STORE

@HappilyHughes

Life has been a little crazy lately! Moving, getti Life has been a little crazy lately! Moving, getting organized and enjoying this new adventure. 

Can’t wait to share more of this house with y’all! 

How was everyone’s weekend? Tell me below👇🏽 
.
.
#atlanta #atl #lifestyleblogger #lifewelltravelled #thebestmoments #embracethemoment
Y’all know I love to share my on-the-go healthie Y’all know I love to share my on-the-go healthier snack options. These Dole bowls are açaí frozen bowls that you can grab from the freezer, let defrost for 35-40 minutes, and eat on the road. Not only does it have açaí, but also a berry mix and granola topping. @dolesunshine #DoleAcaiBowls #sponsored
Team one piece or team bikini? You know I love b Team one piece or team bikini? 

You know I love both! Which suit is your favorite?

Outfit deets 👇🏻

Pink one piece: @victoriassecret 
White two piece: @scoutandmollysavalon
Colorful two piece: not a good return policy so not recommending 🙅🏼‍♀️

#daytona #daytonabeach  #lifestyleblogger #lifewelltravelled #bloggersofinstagram
Currently dreaming of a boozy brunch with my ladie Currently dreaming of a boozy brunch with my ladies. 

Where is your favorite place in Atlanta to brunch or lunch? What do you order there?

#atlanta #atlantaeats #atlantablogger #lifestyleinfluencer
I travel with her now so she’s not impressed by I travel with her now so she’s not impressed by someone’s crusty son trying to take her to Myrtle Beach. 😂

Kidding! I do believe travel is so important for kids though: not only will we cherish these memories forever, but I want to introduce them to as many people, cultures, and beautiful features of the world as possible. 

👉🏻Why do you travel with your kids? 

.
.

#boston #bostontravel #travellingwithkids  #travelandexplore #familytraveltips
The best thing I’ve ever done for myself is BELI The best thing I’ve ever done for myself is BELIEVE in myself. I’ve been hitting so many big goals that I've had for a few years now and I couldn’t be more grateful. 🙏🏻

Couldn’t have done some of them without all of the support that y’all are always giving me. Forever grateful. 💕

Let’s celebrate together - what goals have you hit this year that you’re proud of? Tell me below 👇🏻

.
.

#motivationforsuccess #motivationformoms #findyourpurpose #believeinyourself #positivevibes
Follow Along @HappilyHughes
Life has been a little crazy lately! Moving, getti Life has been a little crazy lately! Moving, getting organized and enjoying this new adventure. 

Can’t wait to share more of this house with y’all! 

How was everyone’s weekend? Tell me below👇🏽 
.
.
#atlanta #atl #lifestyleblogger #lifewelltravelled #thebestmoments #embracethemoment
Y’all know I love to share my on-the-go healthie Y’all know I love to share my on-the-go healthier snack options. These Dole bowls are açaí frozen bowls that you can grab from the freezer, let defrost for 35-40 minutes, and eat on the road. Not only does it have açaí, but also a berry mix and granola topping. @dolesunshine #DoleAcaiBowls #sponsored
Team one piece or team bikini? You know I love b Team one piece or team bikini? 

You know I love both! Which suit is your favorite?

Outfit deets 👇🏻

Pink one piece: @victoriassecret 
White two piece: @scoutandmollysavalon
Colorful two piece: not a good return policy so not recommending 🙅🏼‍♀️

#daytona #daytonabeach  #lifestyleblogger #lifewelltravelled #bloggersofinstagram
Currently dreaming of a boozy brunch with my ladie Currently dreaming of a boozy brunch with my ladies. 

Where is your favorite place in Atlanta to brunch or lunch? What do you order there?

#atlanta #atlantaeats #atlantablogger #lifestyleinfluencer
I travel with her now so she’s not impressed by I travel with her now so she’s not impressed by someone’s crusty son trying to take her to Myrtle Beach. 😂

Kidding! I do believe travel is so important for kids though: not only will we cherish these memories forever, but I want to introduce them to as many people, cultures, and beautiful features of the world as possible. 

👉🏻Why do you travel with your kids? 

.
.

#boston #bostontravel #travellingwithkids  #travelandexplore #familytraveltips
The best thing I’ve ever done for myself is BELI The best thing I’ve ever done for myself is BELIEVE in myself. I’ve been hitting so many big goals that I've had for a few years now and I couldn’t be more grateful. 🙏🏻

Couldn’t have done some of them without all of the support that y’all are always giving me. Forever grateful. 💕

Let’s celebrate together - what goals have you hit this year that you’re proud of? Tell me below 👇🏻

.
.

#motivationforsuccess #motivationformoms #findyourpurpose #believeinyourself #positivevibes
Well y’all.. We haven’t done this in a while. Well y’all.. We haven’t done this in a while. 

Ask me anything in the comments….fitness, beauty, life, kids, fave foods or whatever else!

Hit me with your worst 😉

Details 👇
@mignonnegavigan earrings 
@the.salty.mane hair magic

I’ll answer a few in comments but the real juice will be in stories. 

.
.
#askmeanything #askmeaquestion #atlantablogger #atlantabloggers #ATL

FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL!




LOOKING FOR SOMETHING?

Copyright © Happily Hughes | Design by MLL Design + Branding Studio.

We are using cookies to give you the best experience on our website.

You can find out more about which cookies we are using or switch them off in settings.

Happily Hughes
Powered by  GDPR Cookie Compliance
Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookies

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.