Your Story Series: Meet Des

What is your name?

My name is Des McCammon.

Describe yourself.

I am male, 79 years old, retired.

How did you discover your skin cancer / melanoma / skin condition and how long ago?

I discovered I had a serious skin cancer problem in 2009. My attitude towards sun cancer is to take extreme care especially if you have fair skin. The smallest spot can herald a melanoma. Complete cover is the only real protection.

What would you tell your 16-year-old self about sun protection?

To the young I say be aware of your individual risk factors i.e. fair skin. The subtle nature of melanoma is frightening. I am a regular golfer but use the cover of extremities at all times. I pay particular attention to driving my car with arm and hand protection.

Exposure needs only to be for a few minutes before serious damage can occur. I have had too many basal cell carcinomas burned to count. I have had three melanoma removed, one required a skin graft. Melanoma removal is an operation far beyond what the "spot" may suggest.

Thank you Des for helping raise awareness for skin cancer, melanoma and skin conditions, and sharing your story with us and our Solbari Community.

The Solbari Team

Also in Solbari Blog

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It's all about awareness really, and people are aware, they just need to take it seriously and notice it more. Knowing the consequences and being mindful of how easy it is to avoid, life in general, being out and about, is much easier, happier and less painful.