Patient Stories

Yasmin  C

I Noticed a Changing Mole. The Mole Mobile Helped Me Find Out Why.

I grew up in the harsh New Zealand sun. I’ve always loved long distance running, swimming in the sea and soaking up what nature has to offer. Since moving to Vancouver, this has only increased – it’s hard to stay indoors in BC (in any season!)

I’d always felt like I took great care in covering up while outside, wearing sunscreen and choosing dawn or dusk for my outdoor activities. I have a family history of cancer, so I’ve tried to be vigilant.

However, a few months ago, in May 2026, I noticed a mole on my calf had changed in colour and shape – seemingly within quite a short time.

I searched for support in Vancouver and saw Melanoma Canada’s Mole Mobile was coming to a nearby location within the next two weeks. I had never heard of them before, but it felt like a great coincidence; getting in to see my own family doctor could take a lot longer! After a short wait on the day, the dermatologist took a look and agreed it needed further investigation, while also keeping me calm and informed. The team helped me book into a virtual doctor within 2 days to get a referral to a dermatologist to do the biopsy (who I saw within 2 weeks thanks to a cancellation). The team at the Mole Mobile and Melanoma Canada supported me in getting those appointments as well as ensuring I asked to be put on cancellation lists (very important!).

After the initial biopsy, I received a call from my dermatologist informing me it was Melanoma, Stage 1A with no ulceration. It was very scary to hear the word ‘Melanoma’, but the silver lining is that it was such an early stage. I was then seen by a plastic surgeon to do the wide- length excision surgery to ensure any residual melanoma was removed. It took around a week to get back on my feet and a month to get back to running following the surgery, and a small ‘shark-bite’ looking scar as a memento.

On July 21st, less than 8 weeks after visiting the Mole Mobile, I received the final pathology report that I was clear of any residual melanoma. This result was 100% due to early detection. I’ll need monthly checks every 6 months with a dermatologist for the rest of my life, which I’ll be very grateful for.

I have learned that although sunscreen is great, UPF clothing is better – long sleeves and long pants, especially when you’re out in the sun for long periods. I also know now that areas like lower legs, hairlines and ears are common spots for skin cancers as we don’t spend as much time protecting them like we do ‘easy to reach’ areas. Thanks to the Mole Mobile for all the support and helping me get seen so quickly. It’s a live saving initiative and something I’ll always be grateful for