Melanoma is a terrible disease my family has had to learn from, firsthand.
In February of 2016, my dad had a six-hour surgery to remove melanoma from his neck. We would hope this was going to be our last run-in with melanoma. we were told the margins were clear and we even had a sense of hope, melanoma was already plotting the next move.
In March of 2017, my dad underwent another surgery to remove approximately 1.5 inches of his tibia bone. they replaced his bone with a cadaver bone. We were finally hoping this may be the ends of our dealings with melanoma, but the hardware has malfunctioned and is need of repairs. All this time later, we are not dealing with melanoma, but the damage it caused. My daddy is a warrior and continues to fight a terrible disease that many say is "just skin cancer" melanoma is not just skin cancer, it can pretty much start anywhere and spread anywhere.
In writing this I want you to know the dangers of melanoma.That it's not just skin cancer. And that it can affect practically all parts of your body.
I highly suggest using sunscreen anytime you're in the sun and even a big hat if you are willing. DO NOT use tanning beds, Know that there is no such thing as a "base layer" tan. Any skin discoloration is signs of permanent skin damage.
I regularly see members of my gym using the tanning bed and I cannot help but fear for them. All I can see is the surgeries, the sunspots, leather skin, and the medical costs in their futures.
I'm begging you, USE SUNSCREEN, DON'T TAN.
Melanoma is the deadliest type of cancer there is. A tan is not worth it...