A woman has issued a stark warning to others after she noticed a tiny white mark on her face that turned out to be a lot more serious than she initially expected
A small white spot near a woman’s freckles turned from an innocuous blemish to a harrowing diagnosis. Cancer Research UK has issued a warning for individuals to keep an eye out for white marks within their freckles – a possible sign of cancer. The charity took to Instagram to share Levi-Mariah’s ordeal, who discovered such a mark.
Initially unconcerned by the white spot, Levi-Mariah was later “petrified” upon learning it was skin cancer. Cancer Research UK is now urging the public to seek medical advice if they notice a white mark, as this type of cancer can often be easily treated if caught early.
The Instagram post detailed Levi-Mariah’s close encounter with cancer, noting that a “deep and lengthy” cut was necessary to remove the cancer from her face.
She shared: “We’re all told about the dangers of sunbeds, but you never think it’s going to happen to you. I never dreamt I would get skin cancer on my face. It petrified me.”
Expressing gratitude to Levi-Mariah for sharing her story, the charity encouraged people to stay alert to potential cancer indicators this summer, outlining three simple steps for protection.
Their message reads: “When Levi-Mariah found a tiny, white patch amongst the freckles below her eye, she thought nothing of it. Little did she know that three months later, she would be diagnosed with early-stage skin cancer.
“For most people, this type of cancer doesn’t spread; it can be removed by surgery and no further treatment is required. However, Levi’s carcinoma needed a deep and lengthy incision to remove all traces of it.
“Levi’s diagnosis completely changed her attitude to getting the glowing tan she had always loved. Now, she wants to raise awareness of the dangers of sunbeds and what people can do to enjoy the sun safely.”
Cancer Research UK’s sun awareness campaign encourages everyone to “seek shade, cover up and apply sunscreen regularly and generously”.
The charity expressed gratitude towards Levi, while members of the public also lauded the campaign.
One individual commented: “Thank you for sharing this important message.”
Another added: “Such an important message about sun safety. A member of the public who recently underwent surgery for the same type of cancer as Levi shared their experience.”
They added: “I had my surgery last week for the same thing. I always wear sun cream as my mum passed away with skin cancer. So was shocked when I noticed a mole that was changing in size and colour. Keep strong. We got this.”
What does the NHS say about skin cancer?
The NHS urges people to check their skin for signs of cancer. Moles that change in size, colour or shape could be indicators of the disease.
You should also get checked if you spot any other marks on your skin – as it’s better to be safe in these instances.
A post to the NHS website also confirmed you should “spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm” on sunny days.
Their site reads : “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy.
“There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Aim to strike a balance between protecting yourself from the sun and getting enough vitamin D from sunlight.”