A mum is sharing her harrowing ordeal after a small pimple turned into life-threatening cancer as a result of sun damage – and is urging everyone to wear suncream.
The Met Office has predicted that there could be up to 10 “very warm days” this month, as the UK is expected to experience the first heatwave of the year.
But while people are eager to strip off and bask in the sunshine, Chelsea De Main has issued a firm warning after not wearing suncream almost cost her life.
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The mum had noticed a tiny bump on her nose, which she initially assumed was a spot, but had a “weird” texture.
The now 39-year-old visited her local pharmacist for advice, who stressed she see a doctor – and was left horrified when a biopsy confirmed it was squamous cell carcinoma; a form of sun exposure skin cancer.
Now, she’s urging people to wear suncream – even when indoors – everyday, especially in summer, due to her potentially life-threatening ordeal.
“I never thought suncream was important, especially for me, due to my complexion,” Chelsea, a salon owner, told Need To Know.
“I couldn’t believe it when they told me I had cancer.
“As it was carcinoma, I was faced with one of the deadliest types of skin cancers.
“I sobbed heavily.
“I was so anxious, that I couldn’t sleep.
“I felt like my life was already over.”
Chelsea, from Australia, was eight months pregnant at the time with her first child and was eagerly awaiting their arrival.
But the day after her diagnosis, she went into early labour – and the joyous moment turned quickly into one of heartbreak.
She said: “I was so looking forward to having my baby in my arms after such a long wait.
“But all I could think about was what my diagnosis meant for his future.
“I wondered if I’d still be around to see him grow up.”
Luckily, doctors had caught the case early enough to have the cancerous spot removed and stop the spread.
Though, the mum had to come to terms with a “crater” shaped hole on her nose, which was discoloured and raised.
While thankful she was cancer free, Chelsea opted to undergo a skin graft in February 2021 – five weeks after diagnosis – using skin from the back of her ear.
Now, the whole ordeal has changed her perspective on life, especially her attitude toward wearing suncream.
She hopes to share her story in a bid to urge people to wear a high factor year round to protect the skin and minimise the risk of cancer.
Chelsea added: “I definitely wasn’t as cautious as I should’ve been and I regret this.
“But I had only had around three or four burns in my life, so I didn’t think I was at risk.
“Now I wear suncream each day, even during winter and when I don’t expect to leave my home.
“I’m quite paranoid now about the sun, but it’s so important to take care of your health in every aspect for not only your life, but for those around you as well.
“I’m grateful to have my life back and I wouldn’t wish this upon anyone.
“Be vigilant and take care when in the sun – it could be a matter of life or death.”
