Your Story Series: Courtney Mangan
Could you please share your experiences around being diagnosed with melanoma?
I was first diagnosed with melanoma in 2017 when I was 29 years old. Since then I have had melanoma three more times where it has spread from my arm to my bowel and to my thigh. I've had over 75 cancer treatments and several surgeries that ultimately have been able to save my life. This year, fingers crossed, will be my fifth year cancer free!
How has your relationship with the sun changed following your diagnosis?
One thing I didn't know before this whole experience changed my life was that sun damage is cumulative and that your skin never forgets. Although I was quite diligent around wearing suncream when I was by the pool or at the beach, I never realised how important it is to apply SPF during all of those incidental sun exposure moments. For example, when you're walking to get coffee, you're hanging your clothes on the line or the sun hits your shoulder as you drive in the car. Since my diagnosis my relationship with the sun has changed dramatically and I always make sure that I slip, slop, slap, seek and slide.
What does living a sun-safe life mean to you, and how has sun protection impacted your confidence or comfort when spending time outdoors?
Living a sun-safe life is survival to me. As someone who has had melanoma four times my relationship with the sun very much revolves around fear. So having the ability to have access to clothing that I know is offering me protection when I am in the sun is so important for my peace of mind.
Have you worn any Solbari products? If so, what is your favourite Solbari product and why?
My favourite Solbari products are the Driving Gloves and the Shoulder Wrap - Two items I ALWAYS have in my car so they are easily accessible if I get caught outside and that I can wear to give me extra protection when driving.
What advice would you give to someone who hasn’t yet embraced sun protection in their routine?
The skin never forgets, sun damage is cumulative! Skin protection can literally save your life, please sun damage is the number one cause of signs of ageing!
