If I Knew Then What I Know Now - Thoughts from Melanoma Survivors...

We asked melanoma survivors, ‘What do you wish you knew then, but know now, about keeping your skin healthy?’ Here’s what they had to say...

" If I had known how powerful daily sun protection is, I would have started so much earlier. It’s not just for the beach—it’s for life!" - Sarah J
"The smallest changes, like wearing a hat or seeking shade, can make the biggest difference. Don't wait to protect your future self." - Lisa M
"I thought a tan was healthy (helped with my seasonal depression) until I learned the hard way that my skin needed care, not sun damage." - Erin T
"If I could go back, I’d remind myself that my skin is beautiful just as it is. Sun-kissed isn’t worth the risk." - Emily R
"Don’t assume that skin cancer only happens to people who burn easily. I learned that the hard way. It can happen to anyone, regardless of skin tone." - Monica L
"As a woman of color, I never thought skin cancer would happen to me. But skin cancer doesn’t discriminate—protection is for everyone." - Jasmine K
"Lost two loved ones to skin cancer. The little things—sunscreen, shade, regular checks are the things that I believe save my life." - Rachel P
"Looking back, I wish I had taken my skin seriously sooner. Don’t wait until it’s too late to love and protect it. Teach this to your kids too!" - Amanda P

Skin Cancer Resources

Skin Cancer Foundation. A wealth of information on skin cancer prevention, early detection & treatment options. They also provide helpful guides on sun protection products and tips for safe outdoor practices.
American Academy of Dermatology. Educational materials on sun safety, skin cancer awareness, & skin health maintenance. Its SPOT Skin Cancer™ program is a great resource for learning how to perform skin self-exams and recognize early melanoma warning signs
Melanoma Research Foundation. Melanoma education, awareness, and research. They offer resources on risk factors, prevention methods, and support for melanoma patients and survivors.