Josie Thompson, a 37-year-old mother of two, has died from metastatic malignant melanoma four years after being told a mole removed from her back was 'nothing to worry about'. Her family is now urging people to wear sunscreen frequently to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
In summer 2022, her husband Laith noticed a change in a mole on her back. After a doctor's visit, the mole was removed and she was reassured. However, the mole regrew through the scar tissue. A second wider excision was performed, but she was told it was not cancerous and never referred for scans, despite requesting them. In March 2023, a CT scan and lymph node biopsy revealed stage three melanoma.
Her sister, Jade Thompson, expressed anger, saying: 'They told her the mole was nothing to worry about. She did everything right.' Josie received the devastating news over the phone while at an aquarium with her daughters. The family is campaigning for greater skin protection awareness, including avoiding sunbeds and using SPF50 even in winter.
Josie began immunotherapy in March, but the second round induced Myasthenia gravis, a chronic autoimmune condition. The treatment was deemed too dangerous, and the cancer spread to her liver, lungs, and spine. Despite exhausting all avenues, including diet changes and seeking global medical advice, Josie passed away last month.
During her illness, Josie created 'Josie's Journey' on Facebook, amassing over 3,500 followers and helping others detect skin cancer early. Her final months were spent at St Luke's Hospice in Plymouth, where she received what her family described as 'incredible' care. She celebrated her 37th birthday at Disneyland Paris, calling it a 'dream come true'.
