Skin Cancer Awareness: My Melanoma Story.

CHECK. CHECK…

May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month and before the month slips away, I want to share a piece of my own story in hopes it helps someone out there.

Over three years ago, I was diagnosed with melanoma. A small mole on my left arm, spotted during a routine skin check, looked suspicious. A biopsy confirmed it. Melanoma. Thankfully, it was caught early. I’d been getting annual skin checks since my early twenties. A habit that may have saved my life.

Now I carry a scar on my arm and a deep well of gratitude. I know how lucky I am.

Did you know skin cancer is the most common cancer in the U.S.?
More cases are diagnosed each year than all other cancers combined. One in five people will be diagnosed in their lifetime, and the numbers are rising, especially among younger people.
Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. It touches every skin tone, every background.

I grew up when sunscreen was optional at best and tanning beds were all the rage. So much of my skin damage happened before I even understood the risks and long before I knew it’s not just sunburns, it’s tanning. Any amount is unsafe. There’s also a history of melanoma in my family that didn’t surface until I was in my forties.

I still love the sunshine. Now I enjoy it in small, safe doses, never when it’s most intense between 10 and 2 if I can help it.

A gentle reminder from me to you:

• Wear and reapply your sunscreen. Make it a daily habit.

• Seek shade when you can.

• Cover up.

• Examine your skin monthly.

• And most importantly, schedule that yearly full-body skin check with a dermatologist.

When caught early, skin cancer is highly treatable. Awareness and consistency matter more than fear.

This Memorial Day weekend, as you soak in the light, protect your skin. And maybe put “skin check” on your to-do list. Enjoy your weekend. Stay safe out there.

xx,

Michel