In Support of Mike Dilbeck
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To my family and friends,
I have some difficult news to share. After a series of recent scans, tests, and biopsies, I've learned that my melanoma has returned. As many of you know, melanoma was the first cancer I faced back in 2016, and this recurrence marks my third battle with cancer, following both melanoma and prostate cancer. Unfortunately, this recurrence has progressed to Stage IV Metastatic Melanoma.
Recent scans have shown that the cancer has spread to several areas of my body, including a small spot in my brain. I want to assure you that I am receiving exceptional care from the outstanding team at UT Southwestern, including two different oncology doctors, and I have complete confidence that I am in the best possible hands.
The past two weeks have been filled with scans, biopsies, appointments, and conversations about the path forward. There are still decisions to be made, and I'm continuing to learn more as my medical team finalizes my treatment plan. As I have meaningful updates, I'll share them here.
I know many of you will want to reach out, and I truly appreciate every text, call, prayer, and message of encouragement. Please don't be offended if I don't respond or feel like talking about it right away. There will be days when I simply need to protect my mental health and conserve my energy, but I promise your support is felt and deeply appreciated.
One thing I've learned through my previous cancer journeys is that hope and gratitude are very powerful things. Medicine has advanced tremendously, and there are excellent treatments available today that didn't exist ten years ago. While this road won't be easy, I am choosing to face it with determination and optimism.
Cancer has been part of my story before, but it has never defined me. I don't expect this journey to be easy, but I fully intend to face it with the same determination and positivity that carried me through my previous battles. I look forward to sharing good news along the way.
I plan to continue playing, working, and living life fully!
I plan to continue playing, working, and living life fully!
I love you all --Β
Mike
P.S. I have already posted a couple of updates for you to read and even comment on.
P.S. I have already posted a couple of updates for you to read and even comment on.
Updates
Keep up to date as needs change.
Aug 05, 2026
Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation
Good morning, dear friends and family --I wanted to share another u...
Jul 28, 2026
"Thank you...and let it out!"
Many of you will see the videos I post on Facebook and Instagram bu...
Jul 23, 2026
"Brain Tumor"
Well, I just returned home from my first visit with the Radiation O...
- Created Jul 23, 2026
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Susie Machemehl about 2 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update
Chris Heinbaugh about 2 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update
Mike Hayes about 4 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update
Kelly Bransom about 5 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update
Katrien Vervisch about 5 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update
Robert Hernandez about 6 hours ago β’ on 'Treatment Plans and the BRAF Mutation' update