I had Skin Cancer. Please look out for the signs
By Luke Newman, Founder of For Men To Talk
During my tenth humanitarian trip to Nakuru, Kenya, something unexpected happened. A mole on the right side of my temple became inflamed and started to bleed. I had a deep, unsettling feeling inside — I knew I needed to get it checked.
I landed back in the UK on 1 June 2025. The very next day, 2 June, I went to my GP who informed me that: “I think you need to go to the hospital for this for further investigation.” I agreed, and we planned for an appointment in two weeks. But luck, or fate, stepped in. There was a cancellation, and I was seen at Addenbrooke’s Hospital on 6 June.
Mr Richard D Price, a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon, examined me. His words hit me hard: I had a 7mm ulcerative lesion that looked most likely like a basal cell carcinoma — a type of skin cancer that would need removing.
He explained that I require a surgical removal of the lesion, under local anaesthetic and that I would need a possible skin graft or stitches.
Cancer has cast a shadow over my family for the last 20 years. I lost my mum to ovarian cancer. I lost my sister to breast cancer. Hearing that word — cancer — instantly brought those memories flooding back. The fear, the helplessness, the grief. I was completely numb and in total shock.
On 22 July 2025, I went back to Addenbrooke’s for the surgery, this time with Ms Fionnuala O’Leary. I can’t overstate how scared I was walking into that room. My hands were clammy, my heart racing. But the procedure was quick and professional and the whole team were so lovely. Calming me down with Ibiza Chill Out music and talking to me throughout about myself and my life. The lesion was removed, nine stitches stitched me up with dissolvable sutures, and was given instructions for recovery.
Then came the waiting. That awful, gnawing wait for the results.
On 11 August 2025, Ms O’Leary called. My heart was in my throat. She told me it was indeed basal cell carcinoma, a form of skin cancer — but it had been fully removed. It doesn’t spread to other parts of the body. No further surgery. No long-term follow-up needed.
I completely broke down. The relief washed over me in waves. I immediately told my wife and quickly informed my three children and explained to them fully what had happened over the last few weeks. I phoned my dad, my brother, my closest friends. I cried — not from sadness, but from pure gratitude and of coarse, relief.
Now, I have a scar on my temple. I’ll massage it, look after it, and wear it as a reminder.
And here’s my message to you: check your skin. Don’t ignore changes. Go to your GP.
Signs to look for include:
- A sore that doesn’t heal
- A mole that changes shape, size, or colour
- A mole that bleeds, itches, or becomes crusty
- New growths or unusual patches of skin
It might just save your life.
A reminder that ‘For Men To Talk’ have their own page dedicated to raising awareness about male cancers and the importance of early detection. Knowing the symptoms and performing regular checks can save lives. The page provides detailed information on recognising the signs of testicular cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, bladder cancer, bowel cancer and skin cancer. Whether it’s noticing changes, seeking screenings, or understanding risk factors, we aim to empower men with the knowledge to take charge of their health and seek help when needed. https://formentotalk.co.uk/malecancerawareness/