MRA Meet Ups: Be Your Biggest Advocate - Navigating a Melanoma Diagnosis

On November 20th, MRA hosted its very first online discussion in its new series MRA Meet-Ups, where we regularly connect with the melanoma community to discuss important topics, share insights and experiences, and ask questions. The session, called "Be Your Biggest Advocate: Navigating a Melanoma Diagnosis", featured a panel of experts and shared insights on how patients can advocate for themselves during a melanoma diagnosis journey.

Moderated by MRA’s Director of Communications and Engagement Dana Deighton, the discussion featured melanoma oncologist Dr. Evan Lipson and Nurse Practitioner Megan Schollenberger of Johns Hopkins, and patient advocate Kelly McWhinney. Key takeaways included the importance of building a supportive team, seeking multiple opinions, and understanding diagnostic tests like tumor genetics and imaging. Kelly, while sharing about her personal melanoma journey, emphasized the need for community and caregiver support and how to stay organized. Dr. Lipson highlighted the role of clinical trials in melanoma, while Megan discussed managing side effects and the role of nurse practitioners on an oncology team. The session also addressed the importance of continued surveillance post-treatment and the potential for proactive measures like skin exams and sun safety.

Topics discussed included:

• The role of genetic testing in informing treatment plans and the importance of asking your doctor if you need genetic testing.
• Managing side effects from treatment and understanding who to contact on your care team for different issues.
• Clinical trials in the development of new therapies and encouraging patients to ask about trial options.
• The role of continued surveillance and survivorship care plans after concluding treatment.
• The importance of monthly self skin exams, practicing sun safety, and seeking mental health support after treatment.
• And more!