A few weeks ago I was in the shower, whilst soaping my right arm I noticed that a freckle had changed colour and shape. I kept an eye on this little spot, something about its shape and colour made me feel uneasy. I made an appointment with my Doctor. I must admit that I felt a tiny bit foolish as it was a very small spot, I apologized and said that maybe I was wasting her time and gingerly showed her my arm. Dr. Friggens acted very quickly – she told me to lie down, administered local anesthetic and removed the offending freckle/melanoma!!!!!!!!
The test came back positive and I was referred to Dr. Chris van der Walt – Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon.
A terrifying combination of words melanoma, positive, cancer, is a very frightening experience.
Friends, we have some amazing, wonderful, caring people in the medical fraternity. Dr. Chris van der Walt is one of them.
George accompanied me to my initial appointment and the procedure was done at St Georges Day Hospital. We were met by the very bubbly and warm Kris, personal assistant to Dr. van der Walt and Susan registered nurse and receptionist.
They made us feel welcome and safe.
Much to our astonishment, this very energetic person swept into the surgery
“Hi! I’m Chris”…….
What a friendly wonderful warm and happy person. He explained that he needed to “excavate” 1cm x 1cm skin around the offending area where the melanoma was situated. He drew on my arm to emphasize the size and shape of the wound. Everyone was relaxed and calm and we chatted away as if visiting a group of friends.
George was very pleased to hear that “Mediterranean” type skin was not all susceptible to melanoma’s, however folks with red hair and or blue eyes, pale complexions and prone to freckles are more than likely candidates for the offending little spots, left unattended can become a source of great discomfort.
I am purposely choosing my words here as I do not want to come across as a prophetess of doom, but rather a friend offering a word of caution.
My procedure was scheduled for Friday 21 November and I was reminded that I needed to consult with the very efficient and kind Susan on Thursday. Last week wasn’t a good one as our beloved Charlotte left us on Tuesday 18 November. The last thing on earth I needed was to undergo a procedure, we all know the kind of tricks our minds play – I was at death’s door!!!!!
Whilst consulting with Susan I burst into tears, couldn’t speak but managed to write a note telling her about Charlotte and mentioning my fears.
She was so kind and reassuring – to the point of making sure that I was calm and together before I drove off.
George accompanied me to St George’s Hospital Day Ward, where we were met by really caring and warm nursing staff. On entering the theatre the first thing Doctor van der Walt said: “I am terribly sorry about your dog”. I was so impressed – Susan told him that we had lost a beloved pet and that I had been in tears as well as fearful. We proceeded to talk about dogs, I mentioned that I still had little Benji and he spoke about his dogs. He also mentioned that his Wife accompanied by the gentleman who works in their garden, walk the big dogs at Animal Welfare every Wednesday morning and that sometimes when he has time he accompanies them.
People….. I really love that chap. He has a heart of pure gold. I think the thing I love the most is that everyone in that practice shows genuine love and concern for their patients. You are “seen”.
The procedure was painless and uneventful; the theatre staff showed kindness and were extremely caring, in fact rather jovial. All in all it was a good experience.
A cause close to Dr. van der Walt’s heart is the Smile Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing comprehensive healthcare and surgical intervention to children living with facial paralysis, cleft lip and cleft palate and the like. He offers his time, services and expertise as a gift!
We are all so inclined to see the negatives in this place we call home – so just for today let’s celebrate people like Chris, Susan, Kris, Mrs. van der Walt and the lovely man who works in the garden.
They just make the world a better place.
Yesterday I received very, very good news. That offending melanoma had not started spreading – so my results are NEGATIVE.
My heart is filled with gratitude.
Please be safe out there – wear a hat, apply a good sun block and report any offending little freckle that changes shape and colour to your GP.
9 comments
Louise Liebenberg
Relieved and happy that it’s sorted now 🤗💪
Gail Charalambous
Thank you Louise
Elzabe
Dr van der Walt was the plastic surgeon that diagnosed my Naidine too, Gail. Absolutely wonderful from Day 1. Though her facial reconstruction had to be done in Cape Town, she cannot recommend him enough. She’s got 6 months to go to get the all clear, then they can reconstruct her septum.
Much love to you and so very sorry about losing your precious dog 🥹
Gail Charalambous
Thank you Elzabe
Anne
So sorry to hear that you have been touched by the big C. It is a frightening experience and we are not emotionally prepared when we get that diagnosis. Cancer is definitely on the increase because of the toxic planet we live on, therefore it is absolutely essential that we have yearly check ups.
So glad that you were treated with compassion and kindness that is as it should be. There are many folk who have to go to the state hospitals and their experiences are not very pleasant.
GEORGE Charalambous
Yes and here we see again, through all the doom and gloom, the good still rises to the top and once again reassures us of the kindness and goodness of humanity
Gail Charalambous
Thank you George
Michelle
Wow Gail – what a heartwarming story together with a tale of caution. I’m so glad to hear that you are clear of cancer and have come away from a potentially horrible experience with warm memories and a positive attitude. It was lovely to hear that you were treated with compassion and understanding.
Gail Charalambous
Thank you Michelle