#CHECKYOURSPOTS
Real Stories and the Importance of Early Detection
Skin cancer is a significant health concern, particularly in Australia, which has one of the highest rates in the world. Two out of three Australians will be affected by skin cancer at some point in their lives.
Early detection is key, and these real-life stories demonstrate the importance of checking your spots and taking proactive measures to protect your skin.
"Australia has one of the highest rates of skin cancer in the world. 2/3 Australians will be affected by it. Early detection is key. At Naked Sundays, we’re here to protect your skin and prevent skin cancer. Check your spots and be vigilant in the sun."
Founder & CEO Samantha Brett
What Can You Do?
1. Check your spots regularly. Look for changes in size, shape, or color.
2. Get professional skin checks annually. Early detection saves lives.
3. Protect your skin daily. Wear sunscreen and reapply as needed.
Chloe’s Story
Basal Cell Carcinoma on the Scalp
Chloe Amanda Bailey discovered a small bump on her scalp while sitting on the couch one evening. Initially dismissed as a pimple, Chloe trusted her instincts and decided to get it checked. The diagnosis: basal cell carcinoma.
How She Found It
"I was sitting on the couch watching Netflix when I felt a tiny bump on my head. I took a photo and showed it to my friends the next day. They said it was fine, but something didn’t feel right, so I went to get it checked."
Within a week, Chloe underwent surgery to remove the carcinoma, requiring over 20 staples in her scalp. The cancer was located along her part line, where she had parted her hair for 15 years without considering sun protection.
Her Message
"Protect your scalp. Wear a hat, and don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your part line. Get your skin checked every year. It’s preventable."
Diana's Story
Melanoma on the Arm
Diana Gillian noticed a small, black spot on her arm that grew rapidly over a few months. Its irregular shape and dark color stood out from her other moles, prompting her to book a skin check.
What It Looked Like
"At first, it looked like a freckle but was much darker and irregular. It grew quickly and didn’t look like any of my other moles."
Diana’s biopsy confirmed melanoma, but because she acted quickly, the margins were clear, and she avoided more invasive treatment.
Her Message
"Educate yourself and get your skin checked regularly. Early detection is key."
Juliana's Story
Stage Zero Melanoma on the Lower Leg
Juliana was shocked when a routine check revealed a stage zero melanoma on her lower leg. As a Brazilian with darker skin, she assumed she was less at risk but learned that skin cancer affects everyone.
Her Experience
"The doctor pointed out a spot that wasn’t there the year before. I was shocked to hear it was melanoma. Living in Australia, the sun is so strong, and you have to be aware of it."
Her Message
"Take care of your skin. Use sunscreen and check your spots. You don’t want to lose your life to something preventable."
References
- Cancer Council Australia: Skin Cancer Awareness
- Melanoma Institute Australia: Facts and Prevention
- AIHW: Skin Cancer in Australia
- Australian Skin Cancer Foundation - Skin Cancer Statistics
These stories highlight the life-saving power of awareness and early detection. Protect your skin, educate yourself, and encourage others to check their spots—because prevention is always better than cure.