JOJU x Melanoma: Real Stories, Real Strength: Amy Nichole
This May, in honor of Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month, JOJU is celebrating the strength, honesty and advocacy of melanoma survivors. Women who are living with their diagnoses and helping others stay informed and protected. We’re honored to spotlight their journeys — and their missions to educate, advocate and inspire....
" My goal is simple: help others stay safe, informed and empowered."
AMY NICHOLE, MELANOMA SURVIVOR
My story starts early. I was only eight years old when I got a severe sunburn that left apermanent mark on my skin. It was brushed off at the time, but I never forgot it.
As I got older,tanning was everywhere in ads, in magazines, in culture. Despite my fair complexion, I gave into the pressure. Slowly, I started noticing dark spots all over my right arm. New moles appeared.My skin began to change in ways that didn’t feel right.
Eventually, I was diagnosed with Dysplastic Nevus Syndrome, a condition that requires regularskin checks and lifelong monitoring. It was my first real lesson in listening to my body
The first melanoma
In June 2016, just one month after I turned 28, I noticed a spot changing on my upper rightchest. Something in me said, “Get this checked.” I listened to that voice and I’m so glad I did.The biopsy confirmed Stage 1B melanoma. That moment changed everything
The battles that followed
In 2019, I was diagnosed with two more melanomas, just months apart, located inches away from each other on my right arm. Once again, trusting my instincts and staying proactive made all the difference.
In 2022, life threw me another curveball: cervical cancer. I had surgery, and while it was successful, I remain closely monitored due to rare cancer markers. It’s a reminder that awareness isn’t just about skin it’s about your whole body.
Then came May 2023. A fourth melanoma appeared, this time within the sunburn-shaped areaon my arm that started everything. Thanks to routine monitoring, it was caught at Stage 0 theearliest and most treatable stage. Early detection truly saves lives.
"In 2019, I turned my personal fight into a purpose-driven mission."
I launched ButterflyWarriors, a movement for awareness, education and support. Every May Melanoma Awareness Month, I fundraise, tell my story and spotlight others in the fight. In 2024, my beautiful friend Meaghan joined the Butterfly Warriors. Her light, her strength, and her spirit inspired everyone around her. She passed away in December 2024 at just 38 years old.
This year, three incredible women have joined me as a team to honor her memory. I designed the 2025 shirt just for her every detail carries a piece of her heart. We carry her light, we continue the fight.
What I’ve Learned (And What I Want You to Know)
Whether I’m behind the lens, out adventuring with Roxy, or planning our next trip, skin health is always on my mind. Here are a few things I’ve learned that could save your life, too:
- Know your skin. Take photos. Track changes.
- Speak up. You know your body better than anyone.
- Use SPF daily. Rain or shine it matters more than you think.
- Get checked. Skin exams aren’t optional. They’re lifesaving.
my mission
Whether through a photo, a story, or a sun-safety post, my mission is clear: Educate. Empower. Protect.
Your scars don’t define you they strengthen you. And if my journey helps even one person catch something early, then it’s worth every word.
“From scar to strength, like a butterfly - melanoma didn’t end me, it transformed me.”
Follow Amy on Instagram and click here to learn more about Butteryfy Warriors and her favorite skin cancer resources.
