Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing
Put on a broad-brimmed hat that shades your face and neckWear sun protective clothing that covers as much of your body as possibleSeek shadeWear wrap-around sunglassesApply SPF30+ broad spectrum water resistant sunscreen every two hours
PROTECT YOURSELF IN FIVE WAYS FROM SKIN CANCER

Real life story behind the commercial

Detailed information about how the television commercial for the National Skin Cancer Awareness Campaign was made.

The production of this television commercial was made possible by the participation of two great people – a 22 year old from Sydney and her surgeon Professor Thompson.

Tanya is just 22 years old and has had a Melanoma removed from her back. She kindly allowed us to film and photograph this surgery and this is what you see in the television and print advertising - a real, young person having Melanoma removed from her back.

Tanya wants to share her story to help young Australians understand just how damaging sun exposure can be. The following is Tanya’s story:

My name is Tanya and I’m 22 years old and have been diagnosed with melanoma, not skin cancer that can be burnt off but a serious cancer that can be fatal if not treated in time. I was very lucky to have this removed from my back before it could spread any further. But, I have been left with a reminder -a 28cm scar across my back and a 15cm scar under my arm where my lymph nodes were removed. This is a very serious problem that should not be ignored. It doesn’t matter if you have olive skin or fair skin it could affect anyone if you’re not careful.

Photo of a real, young person having Melanoma removed from her back

I have recently finished study in design and at the beginning of the year started a new job with a home improvements company and am very much enjoying it. I have always been an active person whether in sport or just outdoor activities. My family has always taken sun protection seriously and worn sunscreen and a hat - the problem is that wasn’t enough. I had a mole on my back for a long time that has always been the same every check-up, until this year. Between this year and last the mole changed very quickly. I was lucky to have very good doctors looking out for me. Within two days of removing the mole from my back I got the call to say it wasn’t good news. Within two weeks I had been re-examined by Prof. Thompson and was booked for surgery. I had lots of support from my family, boyfriend and friends (plenty of chocolate when I got back home). I have made nearly a 100% recovery from the surgery and am now feeling good.

photo of Melanoma Surgean, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital

Everyone needs to realise that this doesn’t just affect older people! It attacks anyone anytime and everyone needs to make an effort. Any amount of unprotected exposure could be enough to affect you for life.