SW man issues deadly disease warning
Busselton's Dave Roe has urged the community to be conscious of a disease that kills one Australian every six hours.
In June 2013, Mr Roe visited his GP to check on a birthmark on his toe which had recently changed colour.
The next day, a melanoma 1.1mm thick was removed from his left foot and the site was covered with a skin graft.
"I've endured three surgical events and five hospitalisations since I was diagnosed," Mr Roe said ahead of Sunday's Melanoma March Busselton.
A biopsy after the diagnosis showed the cancer had spread to lymph nodes in his hip.
He had surgery last December during which a number of lymph nodes were removed, including one which contained melanoma cells. Mr Roe's melanoma is level four, active and requires CT and PET scans every three months.
During his harrowing ordeal, Mr Roe received support from the Cancer Council, GPs, the Melanoma WA Awareness and Support group, and especially his family. "My wife Sue and four kids have provided immeasurable support," he said.
Mr Roe has three major recommendations for the public.
"Never presume that any unusual skin lesion is safe," he said.
"Have regular skin checks. Take all necessary precautions … sunscreen, covering up etc."
To support people suffering from melanoma, the Melanoma March Busselton will be held from 4.30pm on Sunday.
Mr Roe said he would attend if he felt up to it.
Lions Cancer Institute will provide free skin checks on the day.
The 5km march starts at 5pm at Signal Park and heads west along the foreshore.
To register or make a donation, visit www.melanomawa.org.au .
