Has anyone else dealt with feline Melanoma?

Hi! My name is Misty and I’m here because I’m trying to get some help or advice about my sweet cat who has Melanoma (skin cancer) on his shoulder. His name is Rio and he is a Maine Coon. About a month ago I discovered a black mole on his shoulder. I took him to the vet last week and was told it is Melanoma.

I’m told by the vet that this is very rare and she doesn’t have a whole lot of information she can give me. She says feline melanoma is usually on the nose or eyes, but it's uncommon for it to be anywhere else on the skin. I thought that by coming here to this forum I might find others who have dealt with this.
 

If anyone has experience with this type of cancer in cats, I would be very interested to hear about your story and any advice you may have for me and Rio. Thank you.

How did you vet diagnose it.  I am sorry, I don't have any experience, but maybe someone else will come along and help you.  I hope you will find a way to treat him.

I fostered a cat with one between his nose and eye. The shelter couldn't afford cancer treatment and it's location and size made surgery too dicey. What did the vet suggest?  Surgery to remove the growth?  Chemotherapy? From what I have heard and read, cats cope well with chemo. Can she refer you to a veterinary oncologist?