Hi, my name is Nick.
Sporty, tall (more clothing and sunscreen coverage!), witty, calm, focussed
I am a baggage handler at the airport, which involves periods working out on the tarmac at different times of the day in the subtropics.
I'm more serious about sun safety as an adult, particularly so recently with my wife having received treatment for advanced melanoma (Stage 3C). Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting young people, which so many in my age group do not realise. I'm much more careful to wear a wide brimmed hat, apply sunscreen more diligently and seek shade more often.
I have been involved with my workplace health and safety committee improving their sunsafe policies and practices. I have used a number of resources from SunSmart, Melanoma Institute Australia and Sundicators to support this process.
We're a team in life, and in supporting each others' endeavours, so I am pleased to support and join my wife in her advocacy. I do this in ways such as organising activities outside the heat of the day and times of higher UV and making sure she has what she needs to be protected and comfortable. I've also supported her speaking at some events about her experience with melanoma, which has prompted her workplace and colleagues to increase their sun safety and helped fundraising for melanoma.
Be more diligent with sun safety across the day and at events such as participating and watching sport. Don't worry about being cool and what others may think of you. Take the time to reapply sunscreen and wear clothes that mean you are better protected. It's worth putting in a bit more effort now to set yourself up well for later. You can be a leader by modelling and initiating change.
Thank you Nick for helping raise awareness for skin cancer, melanoma and skin conditions, and sharing your story with us and our Solbari Community.
The Solbari Team
It is very difficult to the untrained eye to identify melanomas and skin cancers because they can come in many different shapes and sizes.
As Associate Professor Rosemary Nixon from the Skin & Cancer Foundation Inc. says, "the earlier a skin cancer is identified and treated, the better the chance of avoiding surgery, or in the case of a serious melanoma or skin cancer, potential disfigurement or even death."
Many of us are concerned with not only our general health but also the health of our skin. Good nutrition can help us maintain an attractive complexion, as well as look and feel healthy.
We have compiled a list of foods, nutrients and vitamins which can contribute to your skin looking healthier.