Woman’s 4-Year Mole Wait Leads to Stage 2 Melanoma Diagnosis: ‘A Sun Tan Isn’t Worth It’

Jane Murray, a 46-year-old Dublin mom and personal trainer, ignored a mole on her arm for years, assuming it looked “normal.” Her wake-up call came in November 2024, when a nurse friend expressed concern about the mark. What followed was a stark reminder of the dangers of delayed skin cancer screening.

Murray, once a self-described “sun worshipper,” had the mole removed in December 2024 as a precaution. Tests revealed it was stage 2 melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. “When they told me the diagnosis, I didn’t think it was real,” she said. To prevent spread, surgeons removed lymph nodes from her arm, leaving 77 stitches and permanent scars.

Thankfully, scans show no remaining cancer. But Murray now warns others about the risks of sun exposure. “I’d tan from morning to night on holidays,” she admitted. “But a tan fades in two weeks. This scar is forever.”

Key Takeaways:

• Early detection saves lives: Melanoma’s 5-year survival rate is 99.6% when caught early, but drops to 35.1% if metastatic.
• Don’t ignore changes: Even “normal” moles should be checked if they evolve in size, shape, or color.
• Sun safety matters: Use sunscreen daily and avoid prolonged UV exposure, especially during peak hours.

Murray’s story is a powerful reminder: When it comes to skin health, vigilance is everything. “Get checked—don’t wait,” she urges.