It all started about a two years ago. I had a weird bump on my face. It looked sort of like a pimple, but a very persistent one. It lasted a couple months, and then went away into what looked like a raised, slightly-discolored scar. Fred had been nagging me to go get it checked since he first saw it, but I sort of shrugged it off.

Well three weeks ago I finally made a visit to the dermatologist. Despite me not saying anything about that spot, the doctor saw it right away and wanted to do a biopsy. He took a razor to my face right then and there and shaved a big chunk off. Then he sent me home with a bandaid on my cheek.

A week later I got a call that the sample had tested positive as a Basal Cell Carcinoma, and they would have to do Mohs surgery on my face. Basically they remove one layer of skin, about 2mm thick all around the spot, and then put it under a microscope. They keep doing layer after layer until there is no more sign of cancer cells.

I was super lucky that they only had to remove one layer. It is bad enough as is! I can’t imagine doing more. After I was all clear they had a plastic surgeon come in and stitch me up. They had to stitch quite a ways on either side of the circle in order to keep the skin from puckering.

I’m currently on the mend. Just like when I had a broken foot, dealing with the repetitive questions is the worst part. I like that a lot of people have looked worried though, and asked me, “What did it look like?” or, “How do I know?”. My answer is, if you’re worried, get it checked out. I had no idea anything looked funny.

Currently in search of the perfect hat if anyone has suggestions.

And most of all, my message to you is ALWAYS WEAR SUNSCREEN!