Paitent Stories

Kelly Johnston

Skin Cancer and Early Detection

Hi. I’m Kelly Johnston, 38, from Ontario Canada and here’s my skin cancer journey.

I’ve been battling skin cancer for over a decade now.  As much as I had a good warning about what to expect, having many family members who’ve had it, I was still careless with my sun exposure growing up.

Reality hit when a red scab appeared above my left eyebrow that wouldn’t go away. I had it biopsied and ended up needing surgery, which left me with several stitches and a lifetime scar on my face. Being a model and content creator, I struggled with insecurities about showing my face. But after realizing this journey was just the beginning –  and several more cases and scars later – I started using my story to raise awareness among my followers and those around me.  I encourage others to get their skin checked, know what to look for, and always remind everyone how important it is to take care of your skin. SPF! SPF!

My most recent skin cancer diagnosis was one that we all fear – melanoma. My previous diagnoses were all basal cell carcinoma (BCC). This time, it was a tiny freckle on my inner thigh, very different than my earlier cases. This treatment was a little scarier, more serious than others. But with the proper doctors, support, and a positive mindset, I got through it, just like all the others.

I could sit and dwell on the scars left behind, but instead, I am grateful to be here and know that my journey can help others. My journey with skin cancer will be ongoing. Like the doctors say, I’ll forever be battling skin cancer. It’s now just a part of my life. I routinely go every 3 months to be checked. I am also going a step further by getting a full-body skin cancer screening in Guelph, where they map your skin, and I’m undergoing photodynamic therapy (PDT) treatment on my face to destroy recurring skin cancer cells.

We all need to be aware of our sun exposure. We need to understand the importance of protecting our skin, getting any abnormal spots checked, and realizing that no tan is worth it.

If my story inspires you to take action, consider visiting the Mole Mobile if it stops near you, presented by Neutrogena®, to get your skin checked and learn about early detection. Early detection can save lives—don’t wait!

IG @kellynicolejohnston