The sun is a constant companion in the charming coastal town where Hilary Soderborg resides. But beneath its warm glow lies a potential threat that Soderborg knows all too well—skin cancer. Today, she’s transforming her harrowing experience into a force for good, championing a safer way to enjoy the sun’s embrace.
Early Detection of Skin Cancer: A Survivor’s Tale
It wasn’t always sunshine and caution for Soderborg. A former nurse and now a thriving business owner, she admits her sun safety habits were once less vigilant. That changed when she discovered two abnormal moles on her leg. Concerned, she consulted her dermatologist, a decision that would prove pivotal. The pathology report was alarming: the moles were extremely abnormal, signaling the onset of skin cancer.
Reflecting on her journey, Soderborg emphasizes the crucial role of early detection in her battle against the disease. “Early catching it made all the difference,” she asserts. Her nursing background and swift medical action allowed her to manage the condition before it could escalate.
From Awareness to Action
Soderborg’s experience was a wake-up call that skin cancer is a prevalent and serious threat, particularly in sun-drenched locales. “Skin cancer is a big deal. It’s very common, and here in a coastal town, we’re constantly exposed,” she explains. This realization spurred her to take proactive steps in her life and educate others.
Passionate about preventing others from enduring similar ordeals, Soderborg now advocates for “sunless alternatives” to traditional sun tanning. She’s become a vocal proponent of skin health, leveraging her story to encourage community members to adopt safer sun practices.
Key Tips for Sun Safety
Soderborg offers straightforward, life-saving advice for those looking to protect themselves while enjoying the outdoors:
1. Annual Dermatologist Visits: Make a yearly appointment with a dermatologist. Regular check-ups can catch potential issues early when they are most treatable.
2. Self-Check Routines: Learn how to examine your skin after spending time outdoors. Recognizing changes can be critical to early detection and prevention.
3. Daily SPF Use: Apply sunscreen daily, regardless of the weather. Reapplication is key, especially after swimming or sweating.
4. Protective Clothing: Opt for covering up rather than exposing skin. Wide-brimmed hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sunglasses can shield you from harmful UV rays.
5. Avoidance of Tanning Beds: Steer clear of tanning beds, which are known to increase skin cancer risk significantly.
6. Explore Alternatives: Investigate other options, like spray tans or topical bronzers that don’t expose your skin to UV damage.
Through her advocacy, Soderborg is reshaping the notion of a “healthy glow” to mean vibrant skin that the sun’s harmful effects haven’t compromised. Her message is clear: enjoying the sun doesn’t have to come at the cost of your health.
As the community listens and learns from her experiences, Hilary Soderborg continues to shine a light on the importance of sun safety, proving that the best glow is healthy, achieved safely and wisely.