Navigating Skin Cancer: A Personal and Professional Journey
In this special edition of our blog, we are honored to feature Dr. Findley, who not only brings years of professional experience but also a deeply personal perspective, having recently faced her own journey with skin cancer. Through this Q&A blog, we aim to provide a unique blend of professional insights and personal reflections, offering valuable guidance and support for those navigating the complexities of skin cancer.
Can you tell us a bit about your background and how you became a dermatologist/Mohs surgeon?
My journey into Mohs surgery began during my training, where I developed a deep interest in the surgical management of skin cancer and realized that I love using my hands for procedures. Recognizing a need for specialized care, I pursued fellowship training in Mohs surgery, and became one of the few experts in Southern New England skilled in Mohs surgery for melanoma. For the past decade, I have dedicated my career to serving patients in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, and even some from other surrounding states. I advocate for the importance of sun protection and early detection of atypical moles and skin cancer, and I love building strong, trusting relationships with my patients.
What were the circumstances that led to your skin cancer diagnosis?
It all began when I noticed a new, scaly pink patch on my forehead that wouldn’t resolve with topicals. Concerned, I asked a colleague to treat it with liquid nitrogen, a technique often used for precancerous lesions in the office, but it still didn’t clear up. Trusting my instincts, I requested a biopsy because I had a gut feeling it might be more than pre-cancer (actinic keratosis). Given my unfortunate history of tanning bed use and substantial sun exposure from playing competitive tennis without much sun protection, I couldn’t shake the concern. The biopsy confirmed my fears—it was an early basal cell carcinoma.
How did it feel to be on the other side of the patient-physician relationship?
Emotionally, being on the patient side of a skin cancer diagnosis was overwhelming. Even though I deal with skin cancer cases daily, it felt very different when it was me. I was conflicted about how to proceed, despite knowing the treatment options inside and out. As I processed the information and spoke with friends and colleagues, including the pathologists who read my biopsy, I began to feel better. I was grateful that it was a very treatable type of skin cancer and that I had options for treatment. This experience gave me a new perspective on how delicate it is to provide a diagnosis. While I always knew this, my personal experience has deeply shaped how I now communicate with my patients. I always encourage them to reach out after processing the news, knowing firsthand how important it is to have someone to talk to and a clear treatment plan.
How did your professional knowledge influence your approach to your own treatment?
When it came to making treatment decisions, my top priority was the complete eradication of the skin cancer. While I cared about the cosmetic result, ensuring the cancer was fully removed from my forehead was far more important. This experience reminded me how crucial it is to thoroughly discuss the type of skin cancer and the treatment options with patients. Everyone has unique fears, needs, and lifestyles, and it’s essential to address those in detail during consultations.
What were the key steps in your treatment and recovery process?
I opted for aggressive topical chemotherapy to treat the skin cancer, with close clinical observation by my dermatologist. In the year since my diagnosis, I’ve also undergone full-face (including ears) photodynamic therapy and full-face, neck, and chest laser treatments with my colleague, Dr. Valerie Tokarz, DO, FAAD, from Tokarz Dermatology. Both of these treatments aimed at lowering my risk of recurrence. I now follow a strict daily regimen of topicals to maintain these results and reduce my future risk.
Dr. Valerie Tokarz, DO, FAAD and Dr. Alyssa Findley post-laser treatment.
How has your personal experience with skin cancer shaped your practice and interactions with patients?
My approach to patient care has become even more empathetic and focused. While I’ve always prided myself on listening to patients, going through this journey myself has deepened my understanding of the emotional toll a skin cancer diagnosis can take. I feel even more passionate about educating and guiding my patients through this stressful time, and after management of the skin cancer, coming up with ways to reduce their overall risk of growing another cancer while often simultaneously reaching some of their cosmetic goals.
What advice would you give to individuals who are concerned about skin cancer or are currently undergoing treatment?
If I could offer one piece of advice, it would be to prioritize sun protection above all else. Take care of your skin like you would your children, and watch for changes on yourself and your loved ones. I never leave the house without applying a moisturizer with SPF 50, and I reapply it as needed throughout the day. I also follow a strict topical regimen that includes retinoids, niacinamide, and Vitamin C. For those diagnosed with skin cancer, I recommend staying proactive—whether through annual laser treatments or maintenance chemotherapy for select areas. The American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS) website is an excellent resource for skin cancer patients, and I always suggest using it along with our own website for additional guidance.
What message would you like to convey to others who might be facing a similar journey?
To anyone facing a skin cancer diagnosis, I want to convey hope and reassurance. The vast majority of skin cancers are curable, and this can serve as a wake-up call to take better care of your skin. It’s an opportunity to implement better sun protection habits and influence those around you—family, friends, and loved ones—to do the same. There is always hope, and with the right treatment and support, you can move forward stronger and healthier. I look forward to taking part in your journey.
If you have recently been diagnosed with skin cancer and are considering treatment options, call our office at 401-415-8586 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Findley.