But…does it change your life and everyone else’s life around you? Absolutely!

I agree that a successful approach to melanoma awareness is posting graphic surgery photos and educating about the horrible effects of melanoma.  But, with this posting I want to reach out to those that have been newly diagnosed with melanoma and tell you…Melanoma Isn’t Always a Death Sentence. I know you may be scared right now, like we all were when we got the melanoma diagnosis, but you are not alone in this fight.  If you are like me, I googled anything and everything about melanoma and feared that I was going to be the next one to die from this disease.  It has been a tough journey, but after a 10 year on-going battle with melanoma…I am still here.  🙂

Prevention and Early Detection are Key in fighting this disease:

• Stay out of tanning beds
• Use sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher – I think 30 or higher is best)
• Wear hats
• Wear sunglasses
• Perform regular skin checks
• Use good judgment when being outdoors (seek shade from 10am to 4pm)
• Don’t stop seeing your doctors (go to each and every appointment)
• Get every suspicious mole or abnormal area checked by a physician
• Seek support from friends, family, and the melanoma community
• Tell others your story
• Become a Melanoma Awareness Advocate

So, if this post is reaching anyone that has been newly diagnosed with melanoma…Remember, be diligent in the care of your skin, but have fun and live your life.

Melanoma Isn’t Always a Death Sentence, but it should be viewed as a Life Long Sentence.  Take Care of Yourself.