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Amanda is married with one daughter and lives in Plymouth, Devon. From her photograph she looks the picture of glowing health and beauty. In fact, Amanda is very knowledgeable in this area as she runs her own mobile tanning beauty business. However, Amanda has non melanoma skin cancer and has kindly agreed to share her story with us.
Q: What type of skin cancer do you have and how was it diagnosed?
A: I have what is known as Basal Cell Carcinoma skin cancer. My late mother had it, so when I noticed I had some discolouring on my nose I had an idea straight away what it was and went to the doctor. I first noticed the change in March 2008, I had a biopsy carried out in June 2008, and was told it was skin cancer and that I would need an operation and a skin graft. I was lucky that I knew what symptoms to look for and was thereforeI diagnosed early.
Q: How is your health at the moment?
A: I am about to have surgery. It is what is known as a Mohs operation and there are very few surgeons who perform it. I therefore have to travel to Cardiff to have it done. I have been told I am very young to have this type of cancer, as it is mostly associated with older people. Basal Cell Carcinoma starts in the top layer of the epidermis and grows very slowly; statistically, it is about 95% curable when found early, so I am lucky. The Mohs procedure gradually removes the cancer in stages, minimises the surgical wound and maximises the cure rate to 99%. However, I will still have a scar from the operation and a scar from the skin graft.
Q: What were your sunbathing habits like as a youngster?
A: I did sunbathe without protection as a young person and I regret it now. After my mother was diagnosed with skin cancer I became much more careful about looking after my skin. Luckily, I never used sun beds. If I had I am sure I would be facing a much bigger problem now.
Q: What would your advice to young people be now?
A: Firstly, I would advise teenagers to stay safe in the sun, and to wear an SPF sunscreen to suit their skin type. Secondly, I would tell them not to use sun beds at all. Thirdly, I would advise anyone who wants a tan to fake it. My 20 year old niece took my advice and stopped sunbathing and now comes to me for a spray tan instead! She is always pleased with the results and is looking after her skin at the same time. Finally, I would tell young people to check their skin out for any changes once a month, particularly moles, and discuss any changes they find with their doctor.
