Leah Debono (nee Martin)

PATIENT STORIES - LEAH DEBONO (NEE MARTIN)

Leah was only 29 years old when she passed away from melanoma.

Leah was a vibrant young woman who grew up on the Central Coast of NSW with her parents Lex and Heather and two sisters Esther and Nadine. As a family we enjoyed many snow, beach and camping holidays. Leah loved the sun but was in no way a sun worshipper.

Leah was the most supportive, independent, stubborn, caring, determined and hard-working person, having a huge impact on everyone she encountered.

She had so many friends whom she loved to be with, whether it be shopping, travelling or going to music festivals or concerts.

Leah met Ben in 2012 and she was lucky enough to become his wife on 1st October, 2016. It was such a wonderful time for all her family and friends to see her the happiest she had ever been. We were all so excited for their future! They had so many plans, a honeymoon travelling around Australia, building a new house and starting a family. 

Sadly, just a few months later, Leah passed away on 5th January, 2017.

Her life changed when she was diagnosed with a Stage 4 Nodular melanoma on her right arm in February 2013. The melanoma had previously been dismissed twice and told there was nothing to be concerned about. Leah decided to have it removed for cosmetic reasons. A biopsy was done and the devastating results were revealed. Leah had surgery to remove the melanoma, a second surgery was performed to do an axillary clearance. Leah was doing well and having regular checkups. Unfortunately, in April 2016 the results of her latest scans went missing and her results overlooked.

In November 2016 she began to have terrible headaches, but once again was told it was nothing to worry about and that it was stress related. She collapsed at work and was admitted to hospital where it was discovered she had a brain tumor. Leah underwent surgery to remove the tumor, but further scans showed the cancer had spread throughout her entire body and in less than 2 months she was taken from us.

Leah’s and our message is to PLEASE have regular skin checks and follow your instinct. If you think something is wrong, seek a second or even third opinion and always ask to see the results of any tests you may have done.

It may save your life.

Leah Debono & family