The Spot That Started It All

At 20 years old, I noticed a spot on my arm that wouldn't stop itching, and I thought it was just a bug bite.  My sister, who had recently been diagnosed with melanoma herself encouraged me to get it checked out.  At the time, I was worried about having a scar from a skin biopsy and opted not to do it - a decision I laugh at now.  But the itching didn't go away, and about a year later I finally went to see a dermatologist for my first full body skin check for melanoma, which resulted in several biopsies.  A week later, I learned it was melanoma, and my skin cancer journey began.

What I Wish I Knew About Sun Safety

Honestly, without much knowledge about sun safety at the time, I had the spots excised but didn't change my behavior.  I stopped used tanning beds, but I still spent time in the sun without SPF or real concern.  I didn't yet understand the gravity of melanoma or the cumulative impact of sun exposure.  Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a journey that would include 16 melanoma diagnoses over the next 15 years.

Living with 16 Melanoma Diagnoses

Over the years, my body, or more so my skin has changed in ways I never anticipated.  Every excision, every biopsy, every surgery left visible marks.  At first, these scars felt like reminders of something I had lost - a sense of normalcy, a carefree relationship with the sun and my skin.  But over time, I began to see them differently: as evidence of survival, strength, and resilience.

Seeing My Scars Differently

Adjusting to these changes hasn't been a straight path.  Some days I look in the mirror and feel proud of the story my scars tell.  Other days, it's more challenging, and I have to remind myself that healing is not linear.  Self-care for me goes beyond scar creams or spf - it's about giving myself permission to process my feelings, to acknowledge my vulnerability, and to honor the body that continues to carry me through a beautiful life.

Healing Isn't Linear

Every new melanoma diagnosis I receive can be paralyzing in ways, but over time, I've learned to meet them with awareness and action.  I've learned to trust my instincts, and advocate for myself with doctors and loved ones.  I've learned that knowledge is power: understanding my risks, practicing sun safety, and educating those around me has become a cornerstone of my life.  Creating @themelahomie to share my story, raise awareness, and connect with others going through the same struggles has been a huge part of my healing.

Taking Action and Advocating for Myself

Confidence isn't about perfection - it's about choice.  For me, it's learning to embrace my scars, my story, and my body with gratitude instead of judgement.  And knowing how to protect myself allows me to feel confidence in enjoying all the activities under the sun (literally!) and never letting my diagnosis hold me back.  It's learning to carry my story without letting it weigh me down.

Creating @themelahomie and Finding Community

My journey hasn't been easy, and there have been days that felt impossible.  But I've found power in my survival and purpose in helping others.  I am committed to spreading awareness about melanoma, sharing prevention strategies, and offering support to anyone who needs it.  My hope is that by sharing my story, even one person will take action - whether that's practicing sun safety, scheduling a skin check, or sharing important information with a loved one.  Every conversation, every post, and every awareness effort is a way to turn survival into empowerment.

Confidence Through Choice

Ultimately, my journey with melanoma has shown me that healing is multifaceted - it's physical, emotional, and deeply personal.  It's about reclaiming confidence, embracing scars, and celebrating every small and large victory along the way.  I've learned that thriving is possible, even after repeated diagnoses, and that sharing your story can inspire others to protect, honor, and love their bodies too.

How Does Your POST SWIM suit make you feel?

Given the large number of scars I have, particularly on my back, I have found it difficult to find a swimsuit that is comfortable.  Most are made of materials that exposed stitching on the inside of the straps, or even metal details along the suit that can cause irritation and pain on my scar tissue.  As soon as I tried on the POST SWIM suit, I could tell the material felt different.  Smooth and soft against my skin.  It's incredibly comfortable, and I don't even notice the areas that lay over my scars.  The material is ultra soft and lightweight, and gentle against sensitive skin.  It's clear that this suit was made with comfort in mind!  After wearing the suit for a while, there was no irritation, and I didn't feel that overwhelming need to get it off that I had grown used to!  I am thrilled to have an option that is stylish & trend, but more importantly allows me to enjoy wearing the suit without discomfort.