Marilyn Kippley came to Columbia Surgical Associates with a melanoma diagnosis in September of 2015. Marilyn had a pigmented mole on her calf since she was a child. However, she noticed that it was becoming darker, so she scheduled an appointment with dermatologist, Dr. Helen Tergin. Dr. Tergin biopsied the area and determined it to be melanoma. Marilyn was then referred to Dr. Nicole Nelson at Columbia Surgical Associates. In October of 2015, Dr. Nelson surgically removed the melanoma and biopsied a couple lymph nodes.
Today, Marilyn continues routine surveillance with Dr. Nelson as well as lifelong surveillance with dermatology. Marilyn states, “early screening and routine dermatology appointments are key” and we could not agree more! Marilyn is quick to give Dr. Nelson a hug and is very appreciative of the care she received. She said, “Dr. Nelson saved my life!”
If you wish to have more information about how to set up a skin cancer screen, contact Columbia Surgical Associates at (573) 443-8773.
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