In 2021, editor Tyler Mears fulfilled her dream of moving to the coast, relocating her family to Pembrokeshire. After years of battling health issues, including lupus and kidney failure diagnosed in 2017, she finally enjoyed a peaceful life. However, a troubling mole on her leg, previously dismissed by two doctors as a benign fibroma possibly from an insect bite, continued to bother her. Despite reassurances, Tyler's gut instinct told her something was wrong.
The Persistent Mole
The mole grew, changed colour, and became crusty and itchy. Tyler hesitated to return to her GP, fearing she would waste their time. But one sunny day while working from home, she spotted the mole while wearing a summer dress. She decided to call her GP, and the doctor's worried expression confirmed her decision. Tyler was referred to a specialist who scheduled immediate removal.
A Life-Changing Diagnosis
Despite her concern, Tyler initially thought it might still be an insect bite. She even asked if surgery could be postponed for a friend's birthday party. The specialist insisted on urgency, and Tyler knew it was serious. Following surgery under local anaesthetic, a biopsy confirmed malignant melanoma stage 2B. Tyler asked directly, "So, it's cancer then?" and the doctor replied, "Yes." She chose to use the word "cancer" to confront it head-on.
Further Surgery and Recovery
Because the melanoma was deep, additional skin was removed, and a lymph node biopsy was performed to check for spread. Tyler underwent a nuclear scan and major surgery on her leg and groin. The waiting period was the hardest part, filled with anxiety and dark thoughts. When the results came back negative—cancer had not spread—Tyler felt overwhelming relief.
Ongoing Monitoring
Tyler now attends monitoring appointments every three months for five years. Although the emotional trauma lingers, she is grateful for the NHS and the summer dress that prompted her to act. She urges others to trust their instincts and seek medical advice if they have concerns about moles.
