Stephanie thanks 'amazing' support on her cancer journey
A WOMAN currently recuperating after her third surgical operation for skin cancer is warning people not to underestimate the disease – while also thanking the “amazing” community for helping her fundraise for the future.
Stephanie Thompson (49) from Rotherham said: “I have always had a mole on my chest but it had never caused me any concerns before.
“But after I came back from quite a hot holiday last year I noticed it had started to itch quite badly.
“At first I was told (by a healthcare professional) that it was non-urgent but then it got worse and started changing and bleeding and so I went back and have been under the care of Weston Park and receiving treatment.”
Steph, currently recuperating after her third operation, said: “I really want to raise awareness of skin cancer and for something positive to come out of all of this.
“The response I have had from that community has been amazing – everything that's been going on, I'm in absolute awe of these amazing people.
“I am planning a number of events this year and next to raise money for MacMillan including a concert as well as a 'Brave the Shave' event and will be progressing and finalising those plans as soon as I have got over this last operation.
“My message to people would be, if you are concerned about anything health-wise – persist.
“Keep asking and getting checked if you notice any concerns or changes.
“I really want to raise awareness of skin cancer.
“Not many people know much about it, people tend to think 'It's only skin cancer – so it's not so bad.'
“But that is not always the case.”
To support Stephanie's fundraising or follow her journaling find her on social media.