Kieran’s warning over skin cancer after melanoma

Kieran’s warning over skin cancer after melanoma

24 June 2015

A CASTLEWELLAN man has urged others to take extra care in the sun after facing a frightening skin cancer diagnosis.

Kieran Connolly was diagnosed with malignant melanoma in 2009 shortly after returning home from honeymoon.

He had gone to see a doctor after his mum expressed concern about a sun spot he had developed.

The spot, half the size of his finger nail, was removed and confirmed as cancerous.

Although he now has a three-inch scar in its place, Kieran admits the surgery to remove the cancer was the least distressing part of his experience and that is why he has spoken out to mark Men’s Health Week to advise others to enjoy the sun safely.

“Over the next three years the regular checks and waiting to see if it came back or had spread was the worst feeling,” he said.

“I never really took sun safety seriously prior to my experience with skin cancer and had experienced burning on several occasions when I was younger.

“Following my diagnosis, my outlook on sun protection has changed considerably. I enjoyed cycling and walking, but now cover up with protective clothing or opt just not to go out in the middle of the day when the sun is strongest.”

The Public Health Agency and Cancer Focus NI are supporting Kieran’s call for safe sun care and have advised people to stay out of sunlight between 11am and 3pm and to use high factor sunscreen, with particular attention to lips, ears and other areas that may be missed.

Anyone concerned about skin cancer is advised to contact their GP.