Megan’s Stage 4 Melanoma Story

Megan, who lives in Ann Arbor, MI, was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma in 2017, and then with stage 4 melanoma in 2022.

Interviewed by: Nikki Murphy
Edited by: Chris Sanchez

Megan and her husband have been married for nearly 20 years. They share their lives with their dog Taylor, and enjoy traveling both domestically and abroad. Megan loves cooking and has an Instagram account dedicated to it. However, since her illness, she has not been able to cook as much as she once did.

In 2017, Megan was first diagnosed with stage 3 metastatic melanoma. She underwent surgery, followed by immunotherapy. After a few years of surveillance, in 2022, her doctors found that her melanoma had returned. Moreover, it was now stage 4 melanoma, as it had spread throughout her body, including her spine, stomach, femur, and hip.

Megan continued her treatment journey with a combination of immunotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Megan tested positive for the CHEK2 gene mutation, which increases her risk of thyroid, breast, and colon cancers. Due to this, she actively monitors her health through regular scans and doctor visits.

Although Megan has faced many challenges, including significant side effects including pain and discomfort and the toll of her ongoing health concerns, she remains committed to living life to the fullest. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on the things that bring her joy, such as her family and dog, travel, and her passion for cooking. Megan has learned to adapt to the changes brought by her illness, using her platform to share her experiences with others who might face similar struggles.

In addition to her health journey, Megan is dedicated to keeping up with her work and adjusting to a new routine that accommodates her medical treatments. Despite the setbacks, she values her family and continues to prioritize staying connected with her loved ones.

Megan’s story highlights the power of resilience in the face of adversity, the significance of maintaining a sense of purpose, and the importance of having a zest for life. “You cannot let cancer run your life,” she says.