Every year in the U.S., millions of people learn the truth about what it means to say, “This is skin cancer.”
For some, a skin cancer diagnosis means outpatient surgery and a better approach to prevention and detection. For others, the disease is far more serious, even life-threatening.
Every survivor has a story. And The Skin Cancer Foundation’s team is here to listen. Over the years, countless people have shared, powerfully and poignantly, what it’s like to live with and beyond skin cancer. Their goal is simple: To sound a clear warning about the dangers of the disease and give hope to the newly diagnosed.
It doesn’t matter who you are. Actor. Athlete. Businessperson. Beauty queen. Young or old, if you have skin, you can get skin cancer.
“Please get skin checks often, please don’t think it won’t happen to you and, above all, please wear sunscreen.” –Hugh Jackman, actor
“I’ve lost track of how many spots exactly I’ve had taken off, and it’s a small victory when I go to the dermatologist and I don’t have one biopsied.” – Sean McDermott, head coach of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills
“You never think it will happen to you. Realize you are not invincible.” – Joshua Paschal, Detroit Lions 2022 second round draft pick
“Too many people think that skin cancer is ‘the good kind of cancer.’ What they don’t realize is that a skin cancer diagnosis changes you. The emotional, physical and monetary costs can be high, especially if the cancer has been ignored and allowed to grow.” – Jeff Rossen, TV personality
Skin Cancer Is… Challenging
“My biggest challenge as a stage IV melanoma survivor is the recurrence, but also trying to stay out of the sun, trying to keep my children from wanting to be tan, keeping up with my doctor appointments and scans and, most of all, reminding myself that I’m alive!” Kim, Facebook follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“I’ve been battling skin cancer for 30 years. It’s a lot of being on edge, trying to deal with the disease and putting up with people who still don’t think it’s ‘real cancer.’” – Lisa, Facebook follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“I lost my husband in 2021 after he lived with metastatic melanoma for three years. While to me skin cancer means grief, pain and fearing the unknown, it also means courage, grace and LIVING whatever time we have. Thank you for doing the work you do!” – Michael, Facebook follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
Skin Cancer Is… Preventable
“Skin cancer is one of the cancers we can prevent through knowledge. No tan is worth the risks. I’m someone who always got color without getting sunburn and it still got me.” – James Doherty, actor, Instagram follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“The sun is not your friend. Check your skin and protect it from the sun. Get yourself examined professionally once a year. It could make the difference between life and death.” – Ron Licciardi, retired NYPD detective, social media influencer and follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“If there’s anything you can do to prevent skin cancer, you should just do it.” – Chrissy Carbone, melanoma survivor
Skin Cancer Is… Curable When Found and Treated Early
“Had my first skin biopsy done in November 2018 at age 15. Two of three biopsies came back precancerous. Since then, I’m committed to raising awareness about skin cancers in young people. You’re never too young to wear sunscreen and see a dermatologist.” – Kaia, Instagram follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“Skin cancer took my dad away from me within two months because he didn’t go get checked in time before it spread throughout his body. I now get checked proudly every six months and am a huge advocate for skin cancer screenings.” – Whitney, Facebook follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
“I noticed a spot on my leg that concerned me; it was stage II melanoma. I’m now cancer free and I’ve spent every day since that diagnosis telling anyone who will listen to get their skin checked!” – Trinity Pearson, Mrs. Tennessee International 2021
Having surgery for a skin cancer on your face can be stressful, but most wounds heal nicely. Think of your scar as a badge of courage and healing. – Photo booth image submitted by a social media follower of The Skin Cancer Foundation
Share Your #ThisIsSkinCancer Story
What does skin cancer mean to you? Share your story here: https://www.skincancer.org/get-involved/share-your-story/
English
Chinese (Simplified)
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Spanish