WHY THIS IS SO IMPORTANT

This is more than a class to me. In 2010, I was wearing a tank top at home when someone asked, “What’s that weird mole on your back?” That prompted me to make a doctor’s appointment. They did a biopsy, then called a few days later and asked me to come into the office. I said, “I’m super busy and don’t have time. What is it? Just tell me on the phone!” The nurse hesitated and then finally told me it was melanoma, skin cancer. I replied, “Why are you acting like it’s a big deal? It’s not like it’s ‘real’ cancer!” She said, “Oh, it is, and it’s bad. Stage 4. We are sending you to see an oncologist and a surgeon for a consultation to determine what treatment and surgeries you will need.” When I heard the word “oncologist,” I knew it was real cancer! I had a lymph node biopsy and 5 surgeries, followed by a very long recovery.

Melanoma spreads quickly and goes deep beneath the skin’s surface. My mole was only 3mm (smaller than the opening of a drinking straw), and it left me with an 8-inch scar!