A skin cancer survivor is urging people to take sun safety seriously and not risk their health for the sake of a tan as the focus falls on raising awareness of the disease this month.

Walsall Manor Hospital volunteer Chris Ford, from Aldridge, received her skin cancer diagnosis two years ago after noticing a new skin lesion by her eye socket.

The 78-year-old sought advice from her GP and was referred to Wolverhampton’s New Cross Hospital for a day procedure under local anaesthetic to remove the cancerous cells.

Chris is now committed to raising awareness of the importance of people looking after their skin and staying safe in the sun.

She said: “I’ve always loved the sunshine, and I used to go on the sunbeds quite a lot when I was younger. I’d always reach for a tanning oil over a high factor SPF and it’s something I really regret now – it’s always nice to have a tan but it’s just not worth the risk.”

In 2014, Chris had previously been treated for a basal-cell carcinoma (BCC) on her nose after noticing a small pimple-like bump that slowly increased in size.

She needed surgery to remove the cancerous cells, and a skin graft was taken from her neck as part of the procedure.

She added: “When I was diagnosed with my first basal-cell carcinoma at 69, the Consultant had advised me it was likely to have come from over-exposure to UV radiation. It’s awful knowing this could’ve been prevented if I’d have just looked after my skin properly in my younger years.

“I now religiously apply suncream with a high SPF when leaving the house and take proper precautions to protect myself against the warmer weather. I’d urge everyone else to do the same.

“All my health scares have really changed my outlook on life as I’m aware I could’ve easily had these experiences taken from me.

“I now live for spending time with my two-year-old granddaughter Harper who’s bought a new lease of life to me. I also volunteer at Walsall Manor Hospital twice a week, fundraise for Guide Dogs UK and enjoy my fair share of holidays and day trips – but I can only do these things because I have health on my side.”

As part of Skin Cancer Awareness Month, Dermatology Teams from Walsall Healthcare and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trusts have shared the following tips to help prevent sun damage:

• Avoid tanning beds: Tanning beds emit harmful UV radiation and increase the risk of skin cancer
• Use sun protection: Always wear sunscreen with a high SPF, and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Seek shade: Avoid prolonged sun exposure, especially during peak hours between 10am and 4pm and avoid burning.
• Protective clothing: Cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses to shield your skin from harmful rays.
• Check your skin for changes regularly and report any skin changes to your GP or Nurse promptly

For more information on sun safety, please visit: Sunscreen and sun safety – NHS