Mum diagnosed with skin cancer after family spotted suspicious mole on holiday
Fran Ireland, 45, from Ramsbottom, was on a trip to Turkey in 2022 when her partner and two daughters noticed an unusual mole on her upper body.
After returning home, she visited her GP and was referred to a dermatologist who performed a full body check.
Fran Ireland with her partner Matthew (Image: Supplied)
The specialist identified concerns about a second area on her leg, and both moles were removed for testing.
A week later, she was told the mole on her leg was a malignant melanoma.
Ms Ireland said: "My melanoma diagnosis was a huge shock and a very difficult time.
"I'm so glad I saw my GP quickly and was referred to a dermatologist.
"My first thought was for my family as I didn't want them to worry."
Ms Ireland, a mental health midwife and former sunbed user, is now urging others to avoid sunbeds and enjoy the sun safely.
She said: "Awareness of the risks was low when I was younger and I would never dream of using a sunbed now as I know how dangerous they are.
"I've changed my entire approach to holidays and sitting outside since my diagnosis.
"Now, I make sure I'm covered up and take some time out of the sun in the middle of the day, as well as always being prepared with hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
"I also use fake tan.
"It's natural to want to make the most of warmer days, but sun safety doesn't mean missing out, just being careful whether you're at home or abroad."
Ms Ireland with her daughter Evie (Image: Supplied)
Cancer Research UK estimates that around 87 per cent of UK melanoma cases are preventable and caused by overexposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun and sunbeds.
With around 2,200 people diagnosed each year in the North West, Ms Ireland is determined to help raise awareness.
She has joined forces with Cancer Research UK and NIVEA Sun to encourage people to seek shade, cover up, and apply sunscreen regularly and generously.
After surgery at The Christie just before Christmas to remove additional tissue from her leg, Ms Ireland spent the festive season recuperating.
She said: "It could have been a different story but now, thanks to advances in research and treatment, I'm still here and looking forward to enjoying more precious moments with my loved ones this summer."
Ms Ireland is now urging others to avoid sunbeds (Image: Supplied)
Beth Vincent, health information manager at Cancer Research UK, said: "Today, more than nine in 10 people diagnosed in the North West will survive their melanoma for five years or more.
"Getting sunburnt just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, compared to never being burnt.
"If you notice anything different on your skin like a new mole, a mole that's changed in size, shape, or colour, or any patch of skin that looks out of the ordinary - don't ignore it, speak to your GP."
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NIVEA Sun recommends spending time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, covering up with clothing and a wide-brimmed hat, and using sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and four or five-star UVA protection.
Skin cancer is more common in people over 50, but it can affect anyone.
Those at higher risk include people with lighter skin, numerous moles or freckles, and a family history of skin cancer.
For more advice or to support skin cancer research, visit cruk.org/sunsafety.
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