Wendy Carpenter

I have followed quite a few CaringBridge sites over the years, but never imagined I would be here. BUT...here I am starting a site to keep friends and family updated in one place.

On December 7, 2018, I was diagnosed with a rare cancer called Ocular Melanoma in my left eye. I am still processing the news and probably still in a bit of denial about the whole thing, but I am moving forward with treatment. It's time to get this tumor outta here!!

A few facts about Ocular Melanoma (OM)

* OM is a distant cousin to skin melanoma, but they are not the same beast.

* OM is a slow growing, often aggressive form of cancer that does not respond to chemo.

* Radiation Therapy is the preferred treatment.

* It is the most common primary cancer of the eye in adults, but is still rare; your odds of getting it are about 6 in 1 million.

* Dr's don't know exactly what causes OM. However, people with fair skin, blonde or red hair, and light-colored eyes are more likely to get it.

* There is no hard evidence that links OM to ultraviolet rays.

* OM usually develops in the middle layer of the eyeball (choroid), which holds all the blood vessels that feed the inner eye.

* Symptoms include bulging eyes, change in color, poor vision, or red, painful eye, but most people do not have any noticeable symptoms.

I am sharing this with you because I gain strength from my community of family and friends. I am also a firm believer in the power of prayer and positive thoughts. Thank you for lifting me up in prayer and sending positive thoughts and love! I can't do this without it!!