The cure for melanoma begins with me.

On August 7, 2023, my world flipped upside down. I was diagnosed with melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. In some ways, it feels like it happened just yesterday. In others, like I’ve lived a hundred lives since. One thing is certain: nothing has been the same since that day.

Before my diagnosis, I had never had my skin checked. I had never even seen a dermatologist. I didn’t understand how aggressive, unpredictable, and life-altering melanoma could be. I was healthy, active, young - and I truly believed skin cancer was something that happened to other people. Until it happened to me.

Melanoma doesn’t discriminate. It affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. In 2026 alone, more than 234,000 cases of melanoma are expected to be diagnosed in the United States, including about 112,000 invasive cases. And over 8,500 people will lose their lives to this disease.  

These aren’t just statistics to me anymore.

That’s why I’m participating in Miles for Melanoma: to raise awareness, fund life-saving research, and honor everyone impacted by this disease, including myself. This walk isn’t just a fundraiser. It’s a symbol of resilience, strength, and the hope I carry with me every day.

If you’re able, I would be incredibly grateful for your support. Whether it’s making a donation, sharing this page, or simply scheduling your own skin check, you’re helping change the story.

Thank you for being part of mine. I’m walking toward healing, toward progress, and toward a future where melanoma doesn’t get to write anyone else’s “Day One.”