Washington charity Melanoma Me leading the way in the fight against skin cancer as it ramps up work for melanoma awareness month in May

A leading melanoma charity based in Washington is ramping up its awareness campaign during the month of May, which is melanoma awareness month.
CEO of Melanoma Me, Kerry RaffertyCEO of Melanoma Me, Kerry Rafferty
CEO of Melanoma Me, Kerry Rafferty

The Melanoma Me Foundation will be using the awareness month to spread the word about the dangers of the illness and what can be done to prevent it, as the weather begins to change and the sun comes out more.

Throughout May, the foundation will continue its work with the beauty industry, promoting early detection and offering training on how to spot a melanoma diagnosis.

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During the pandemic, there has been a global reduction of 33% in melanoma diagnosis, leading to approximately 60,000 people who have undetected melanoma, according to the World Health Organisation.

Since July 2020, Melanoma Me has seen a four fold increase in the use of its services and believe now is a vital time to raise awareness of the illness.

Kerry Rafferty, CEO at The Melanoma Me Foundation, said: “Melanoma and skin cancer awareness is extremely important any time of the year but in particular May is a month when many people get caught out with the sun and forget to wear sun cream.

“We’ve recently converted our awareness training to online so it is accessible to anyone at any time. Until the end of May we are launching at half price of only £15pp to help raise awareness and funds for the charity.”

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After a difficult year for the foundation, Melanoma Me are hoping to be able to return to holding events in the near future, which help raise vital funds for the charity.

Kerry added: “We’re hoping the events go ahead this year to help support the charity. The Butterfly Balloon November 20th is fully booked and the Big Walk is looking likely to go ahead on July 11th as well as a “Leading ladies” drag show on 26th November. We encourage any support whether attending, supporting or donating to our events.”

Melanoma Me are also encouraging as many people as possible to join spreading awareness of melanoma and skin cancer throughout the month of May, and to remember to be wary of the dangers UV rays in the sun can cause.

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