Paitent Stories

Jewel Power

Hearing the words “You Have Skin Cancer”

By Jewel Power

Friends, if you’re reading this, you’re likely seeking information and education from Melanoma Canada, just like me. No one wants to face the words “you have skin cancer.” It’s a journey forced upon us, one that, hopefully, will make us stronger. 

I come from a family of British descent, and we’re covered with “beauty marks.” Skin cancer was never part of our family history and wasn’t even on my radar. Being in the beauty industry, I’ve always taken great care of my skin. However, my journey began with a small wart-like growth on my left nostril, a tag on my chest that fell off and wouldn’t heal, and a small black, flat mole near my belly button. 

Despite being cautious about sun exposure now, I have a history of basking in the sun during my younger days. But as I’ve grown older, the sun’s intense heat doesn’t appeal to me anymore. My relationship with the sun was passionate in the past. I indulged in its warmth, the highlights in my hair, and the butterscotch tone of my skin, reminiscent of memories in Mexico. I even booked tanning bed sessions before and after beach holidays to prevent burns and prolong the tan once I got back home. That was then. 

My journey toward Melanoma Canada began with a visit to my family doctor for a referral to my dermatologist. Yearly visits are necessary, and a new referral is required if you haven’t seen your dermatologist in a year. 

Upon the dermatologist’s examination, biopsies were taken from my nose, chest, and belly. Seeking more information, I discovered Melanoma Canada through a local news feature and a google search on mobile mole checks. I signed up for their emails and followed them on Instagram—knowledge is truly empowering in this journey. 

A week of waiting for biopsy results felt like a lifetime. The call from my dermatologist confirmed basal cell carcinoma on my nose and chest, but the belly mole was melanoma. Fortunately, it was caught early, marking the beginning of my journey. 

I decided to document my journey on social media, initially on Instagram and later TikTok, where I found a supportive community of skin cancer champions. 

The next step was a referral to the Mohs Clinic at Women’s College Hospital in Toronto for surgery, which took place on September 1, 2023. I underwent four surgeries, the first focusing on my nose, which had to be repeated to ensure the eradication of cancer. A skin graft from my cheek covered the resulting nostril hole. Subsequent surgeries addressed the belly and chest, where the doctor performed extensive procedures to ensure cancer-free results, especially as Mohs surgery is not typically performed on the body. 

Mohs surgery was an unpleasant experience, enduring an entire day at the clinic while being awake. The most discomfort came from the freezing needles. Post-surgery, proper wound care was crucial, and my advice is to invest in silicone scar tape—gentle yet effective. 

Stitches were removed from my nose and cheek after a week and from my chest and belly after two weeks. Follow-up appointments were one-month post-surgery and regular skin checks were part of the aftercare protocol. 

The journey continues with regular follow-ups every 3-6 months, keeping a vigilant eye on my skin for any changes. My dermatologist emphasizes the importance of early detection. 

Friends, having a tan isn’t cute; it’s deadly. Please, be sun safe. Any suspicion of skin changes warrants immediate attention, as early diagnosis is paramount. Our skin, the body’s largest organ, deserves our utmost care. Skin cancer doesn’t discriminate. 

I’m immensely grateful to be cancer-free, maintaining a positive outlook and advocating for awareness. Catching skin cancer early has been a stroke of luck. The healing process is ongoing, with my nose, belly, and chest wounds gradually improving. Among them, the chest wound has been the most uncomfortable. 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to Melanoma Canada for sharing my journey and for their unwavering support to all of us. 

Jewel
@StyledLady4Ever
#powertobebeautiful