Shamrock and sunblock - 100 miles in May for melanoma

| In December 2023, I noticed a small red mark on my arm and as a pasty Irish girl I tried to do the right thing — I tried to get it checked early. Although it was initially thought to be harmless, the mark continued to change over time. I allowed myself to be reassured at two further appointments before trusting my instincts, I kept returning and asking questions until I was finally referred for specialist review in January 2025 I was finally referred to dermatology. In May 2025, after a biopsy, I was diagnosed with Stage 2 melanoma. Hearing the word “melanoma” was frightening, especially with two smallies aged 11 and 13 at home. But because the changes were eventually investigated and treated, further surgery and scans showed no evidence that the cancer had spread. Following a wide local excision, lymph node biopsy, and skin graft, my diagnosis remains Stage 2. I am incredibly grateful for that outcome, many others in my position have not been that lucky. Not so grateful for my big old scar but I'll get there! My story highlights how important it is to know your own skin, notice changes, and not allow yourself to be brushed off. Melanoma doesn’t always look like a classic mole, and persistence can make a life‑saving difference. By supporting SKIN.org and Melanoma Focus, you are helping to raise awareness, improve early detection, and ensure more people hear a message that matters:  if something doesn’t feel right, keep asking.  Anyone who knows me, knows I'm not a runner and thankfully this challenge states I don't have to, you can do any method - So I promise to walk my Irish behind really fast for the whole 100 miles and more if possible.  Any little you can donate is massively appreciated.  Cheers Guys Trish xx |
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