TIPSLIFEHACKS

It's a relief to say it – I'm doing okay! I recently faced a scare with melanoma, a serious reminder of the importance of skin health. Thankfully, my incredible surgeon caught it early and successfully removed a concerning spot on my chest. It left me with a visible scar, what I jokingly call a 'zipper,' but it's a small price to pay for being here and feeling strong.

This experience has been a huge wake-up call. For years, I'd been relatively carefree about sun protection, enjoying the Aussie sunshine without always taking the necessary precautions. I thought I was immune, or at least that it wouldn't happen to me. How wrong I was.

The diagnosis itself was a shock. The initial consultation felt like a blur of medical jargon and anxious waiting. The surgery was thankfully straightforward, but the recovery period was a time for reflection. I spent a lot of time thinking about the choices I'd made and the importance of prioritizing my health.

Now, I'm a changed person when it comes to sun safety. I'm religiously applying sunscreen (SPF 50+, of course!), wearing protective clothing, and seeking shade during peak sun hours. I'm also much more diligent about checking my skin regularly for any new or changing moles. Early detection is absolutely key, and I'm so grateful for the swift action of my medical team.

My story isn't unique. Melanoma is a significant health concern in Australia, with alarmingly high rates compared to many other countries. We're a nation of sun-lovers, and that's wonderful, but it means we need to be extra vigilant about protecting ourselves from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

Here are a few things I've learned and want to share:

• Slip, Slop, Slap: This classic Aussie campaign is still incredibly relevant. Slip into shade, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a hat.
• Regular Skin Checks: Don't wait for your doctor to tell you to check your skin. Get familiar with your moles and spots, and report anything suspicious immediately. Consider a professional skin check annually.
• Be Sun-Smart Year-Round: UV radiation is present even on cloudy days and during winter months. Don't let your guard down.
• Educate Yourself: Learn about the risk factors for melanoma and how to identify potentially cancerous lesions.

I'm sharing my story to raise awareness and encourage others to take their skin health seriously. It’s a powerful reminder that it can happen to anyone. While I'm incredibly grateful for the outcome in my case, I want to prevent others from having to go through the same worry and uncertainty.

So, please, be kind to your skin. Protect it. Check it. And don't take your health for granted. I’m still going strong, and I intend to keep it that way!