As some of you may know, Niki was diagnosed with a non malignant form of skin cancer known as basal cell carcinoma in 2007 and had Mohs Micrographic Surgery in January 2008 to have the lesion removed. Unfortunately, a second lesion was found and removed in November 2008. Thankfully both operations were successful in removing the cancer and she is now fully aware of the steps needed to prevent such abnormalities happening again and also how to detect the early warning signs.

What we found to be most surprising for us was the poor detection process experienced – only after being to three different doctors, was Niki correctly diagnosed. This is despite the fact that skin cancer is one of the most common cancers, and is largely curable if caught early enough. Regular self-examinations and monitoring of any scabs or skin abnormalities is all that is needed.  Don’t think twice about going to the Doctor about any changes in your skin and be persistent!

For most of you this will be the first time you have ever heard of Basal Cell Carcinoma which shows us that there is simply not enough awareness of the causes of skin cancer and the dangers that exist in excessive sun / sun-bed exposure. Rates of skin cancer are increasing faster than any other cancer, with figures doubling every 10 to 20 years. To help raise awareness, Niki and her brother Gordon are going to complete a half-marathon in order to raise money for The Karen Clifford Skin Cancer Charity, a charity that aims to educate people in these areas.

Now, as you know, Gordon can barely run 5 meters, let alone 13.2 miles, but he will do this on one condition – that you dig deep, and sponsor us lots of money. For each gasp of breath taken, he will think of how much money we are raising! Thanks in advance to all.

Niki and Gordon

P.S. For more information on skin cancer please refer to the following resources:

http://www.skcin.org/about_skcin.php

http://www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk/standard.aspx?id=240

http://www.digitalbristol.org/members/bricho/scarf/index.htm

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