AS part of National Skin Cancer Action Week, Bunbury man Wayne Bolton has shared his rough ride with melanoma to help raise awareness for the disease.
Mr Bolton was diagnosed with secondary melanoma last year and bears the scars from six operations since he was first treated for melanoma three years ago.
Earlier this year he had to have his hip dislocated to explore a shadow which showed up in one of the scans he now routinely undergoes every six months.
I’m rather proud of my melanoma – I’d prefer not to have it, but if it helps raise awareness then I’m happy.
- Bunbury man Wayne Bolton.
Mr Bolton said the main aim for him throughout this week is to help raise young people’s awareness about skin cancer.
“A lot of the younger generation aren’t aware to the dangers of the Australian sun,” he said.
“The Australian sun is a harsh, burning sun and people need to be aware and respect it – love the skin you’re in.”
Mr Bolton said sharing his story with skin cancer was him making the best of a bad situation.
“I’m simply out to raise awareness about it,” he said.
“I’m rather proud of my melanoma – I’d prefer not to have it, but if it helps raise awareness then I’m happy.”
