Brittanny, United States

My journey with cancer began in 2021, during the pandemic, when I was diagnosed with stage 3A melanoma skin cancer at 27. This diagnosis came as a shock, but it also ignited a passion in me to advocate for melanoma awareness and prevention. Now, at 31 and living in a very small town in Pennsylvania, I balance my time between follow-up appointments, cancer advocacy, and managing my regular life as a working mom.

Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the sun and used tanning beds, not fully understanding the risks. Well, let’s say, I was told the risks by tanning salons because I was tanning as a minor. But I was operating on the “it won’t happen to me” mindset, so I continued to tan both indoors and outside up through my early 20s and until my diagnosis. 

In 2020, I noticed a suspicious mole on my shin that I felt was dry, flaky, and ugly. It was spreading - growing wider and larger - and my intuition kept telling me to put sunscreen on it. Though, sunscreen was not something I ever used because I felt that it prevented my tan. And that’s the last thing I wanted. 

After years of going to skin checks with no issues found, I missed my 2020 skin check because of the pandemic and quarantine. Being ordered to stay at home gave me a reason to not go to that appointment that year, and that was my first mistake. 

When I returned in 2021, after a biopsy of that mole on my shin that continued to grow into the size of a dime (when it used to be smaller than a pencil tip years prior), I was diagnosed with melanoma, and my life changed forever. I underwent surgeries and immunotherapy treatments. 

While I am currently NED as I write this, I have an upcoming PET scan on Dec 18, 2024, that will determine the next chapter of my life. I get these scans every 6 months as well as a lymph node ultrasound. Melanoma is very aggressive and often returns, so these appointments are necessary in order to catch it early if it were to reoccur so that we have more opportunities to save my life.

Throughout my journey, I've been incredibly fortunate to have a strong support system of friends, family, and fellow cancer warriors. I'm a proud mom of a 9-year-old son. My partner of 10 years, Myrl, is my rock, stepping up to be my 80% when I'm only feeling 20%. On my good days, I make sure to be his 80%. We make our relationship work through communication, empathy, and understanding that some days will be more challenging than others. But as long as we have each other, we know we can get through anything.

I've also connected with various organizations, participating in research studies and advocacy efforts. My fellow melanoma warriors and I call ourselves "melahomies," always rooting for and checking in on each other. I've had the honor of going to Washington, D.C., twice to share my story with Congress, ensuring that cancer remains a top priority. It's important to me that everyone touched by cancer feels seen and supported at a governmental level.

These experiences keep me optimistic and encouraged to continue fighting this devastating battle. Not only for now but for future generations and beyond.

I use my platform on Instagram (@beingbrittanny) to share my story and connect with others who have been affected by skin cancer. My goal is to raise awareness about the importance of regular skin checks and sun protection. I believe that by sharing our experiences and supporting each other, we can make a difference in the fight against melanoma.

Thank you for taking the time to learn about my journey. Stay vigilant & resilient. Remember, the only way we can fight cancer is together.