Claire Smith

PATIENT STORIES - CLAIRE SMITH

Hi! My name is Clare. I'm a survivor of multiple, recurring skin cancers and I feel incredibly grateful to be alive and able to share my arduous journey with you.

Like most Australians, I spent my childhood in the sun. Growing up on the Northern Beaches, from late spring to the end of summer I spent my weekends at Freshwater Beach completely oblivious to the fact that most UV damage occurs before the age of 20.

At the age of 14, I had what appeared to be a sore on my back that wouldn't heal.

Genetically, I'm predisposed to dysplastic moles but after discussing it with my local GP I was sent to a dermatologist immediately who biopsied the lesion as he detected abnormal pigmentation.  The results revealed a melanoma in situ and I was immediately booked in for surgery and a wide excision of the cancer. I was reassured that the cancer was confined to the top layer of the skin (the epidermis) and surgery would be curative. Left untreated, the melanoma would undoubtedly metastasize and become life threatening.

Following my first diagnosis, I continued to undergo regular skin checks with my dermatologist but didn't consider the implications of cumulative sun exposure. Two weeks prior to my high school formal and graduation I decided that the safest way to get a tan was by using a solarium, a decision that has changed my life and physical health indefinitely.

I'm now 35 and have battled multiple, recurring and invasive non-melanoma skin cancers since my teenage years. I've undergone multiple surgeries, flap repairs, hospitalisations, infections, photodynamic therapy and topical chemotherapy.

Despite my face and body being covered in scars, I'm one of the lucky ones as I'm alive. I’m passionate about sharing my story, as traumatic as it is. My diagnosis and lifelong battle has connected me with Jay Allen, a fellow survivor and inspiration. My scars have made me who I am and are testament to the battle I have fought with this insidious disease.

My message is simple: you get one life, and one chance to protect your skin from the damaging and life-threatening effects of the sun and UV exposure. Please get your skin checked, go to a dermatologist or specialist skin cancer clinic.

I'm grateful that I'm alive and thank you for connecting with me and reading my story.

Sending my love and support to all survivors of skin cancer.