Joey’s Skin Cancer Story | Protect Your Skin (Full Length)

Summary

Joey, diagnosed with melanoma at 25 and again at 27, recounts the shock and fear of facing skin cancer. Once an active tennis player, Joey's life dramatically changed post-diagnosis, with physical limitations and emotional turmoil. Now, he advocates for sun safety, emphasizing the importance of protection and sharing his story to warn others of skin cancer's potential impact.

Takeaways

• 🏥 Joey was diagnosed with melanoma twice, first at 25 and then at 27.
• 🔍 A mole that was growing rapidly led to the diagnosis of melanoma.
• 😢 Hearing the diagnosis of cancer was a shocking and life-altering moment for Joey.
• 🏃‍♂️ Prior to his diagnosis, Joey lived an active lifestyle and played tennis passionately.
• 🚫 The melanoma diagnosis impacted Joey's ability to play tennis, a sport he loved.
• 🌞 Joey did not take sun safety seriously before his diagnosis.
• 💔 The second diagnosis left Joey feeling shattered and terrified about his future.
• 😭 Joey and his fiancee experienced deep emotional distress upon learning of the diagnosis.
• 🧴 Joey now takes precautions outdoors, wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen regularly.
• ⚠️ Joey wants to raise awareness that skin cancer can affect anyone, even young and active individuals.

Q & A

How old was Joey when he was first diagnosed with melanoma?

Joey was first diagnosed with melanoma when he was 25 years old.

What was the initial symptom that led Joey to seek medical attention for melanoma?

Joey noticed a mole that was developing and growing very dark and quickly, which was quite alarming.

What was Joey's reaction when he was told he had melanoma?

Joey vividly remembers the appointment where he was told he had melanoma and describes it as never being news you want to hear.

How did Joey's lifestyle change after his melanoma diagnosis?

Before the diagnosis, Joey lived a very active lifestyle and didn't take sun safety seriously. After the diagnosis, he became more cautious and protective.

What impact did the melanoma diagnosis have on Joey's passion for sports?

Joey's passion for sports, particularly tennis, was significantly impacted. He could no longer play tennis after his surgery.

How did Joey feel when he was diagnosed for the second time?

Joey was completely shattered and felt his whole world had been turned upside down.

What was Joey's fear after the second diagnosis?

Joey was terrified and thought there was a good chance he could die.

How did Joey's experience with melanoma change his outdoor activities?

Joey now ensures he has protective clothing and plenty of sunscreen before going outdoors to reduce the risk of getting melanoma for the third time.

What advice does Joey want to give to young people regarding skin cancer?

Joey wants young people to know that they are not invincible from skin cancer and it can happen to them, as it did to him.

What was Joey's emotional response to his diagnosis with melanoma?

Joey and his fiancée cried for a long time, not knowing what the future would hold.

What is now part of Joey's routine after being diagnosed with melanoma?

Thinking about the sun and taking precautions like wearing protective clothing and applying sunscreen is now part of Joey's routine before doing anything outdoors.