Publish date: 28 July 2023
A Kirby woman is warning people to stay safe in the sun this summer after being diagnosed with skin cancer.
The mum-of-two said her cancer diagnosis 15 years ago rocked her family and they were “all scared” of the consequences. She is now warning people to take care when enjoying the sunshine this summer to cut their risk of developing the disease.
Cathy O’Connell first noticed something was not right when she spotted a mole on her stomach had become darker in colour. The 47-year-old went to see her GP to get it checked out and was referred to Broadgreen Hospital in Liverpool where she had surgery to have the mole removed. A biopsy confirmed it to be melanoma – a form of skin cancer.
Cathy said: “I’d read about skin cancer and, if I’m honest, I just didn’t think I’d ever get it. I really didn’t expect my mole to be anything to worry about at all.
"I always felt better with a tan. I would sit in the garden for hours. I used to work night shifts and instead of going to bed I would fall asleep in the sun. Back then, awareness wasn’t like it is these days – now I always wear sunscreen.
“Being diagnosed with melanoma was a huge shock and a very difficult time. My world pretty much fell apart in that moment. I went back home to my family after the appointment, and we were all scared.
“I hope I can encourage people to think about their sun habits and take precautions. It’s so important, because almost nine in 10 melanoma cases each year in the UK could be prevented by being safe in the sun and using a combination of shade, clothing and sunscreen to avoid burning.”
Fortunately, Cathy didn’t require any further treatment, but still has regular check-ups on her remaining moles following her cancer diagnosis in 2008.
“I’ve had regular check-ups and now it is approaching 15 years since I’ve been clear of skin cancer, but I do worry it will come back. I want to help others and spread the word about skin cancer prevention and early detection, too.
"It could make all the difference, so I always encourage people to be safe in the sun and see their GP if they have any concerns about their skin.”
Cathy has now joined forces with Cancer Research UK and NIVEA Sun, who are offering advice on how people can protect their skin from too much exposure to the sun’s UV rays. They recommend the following when the sun is strong:
- Seek shade – especially between 11am and 3pm in the UK. Take a break under trees, umbrellas or canopies, or go indoors
- Cover up – wear a wide-brimmed hat and UV protection sunglasses. Clothing should cover your shoulders. The more skin that’s covered by your clothing, the better the protection
- Apply sunscreen – with at least SPF15 and 4 or 5 stars. Make sure to reapply it regularly and generously, especially after swimming, sweating, or towelling.