Mother’s Determination Leads to Early Detection of Melanoma

After years of dismissing a small mark on her cheek as a harmless birthmark, Courtney Siley received a shocking diagnosis of Stage II melanoma. Her journey underscores the importance of vigilance in skin health and the potential life-saving impact of regular check-ups.

From Birthmark to Diagnosis

At 36 years old, Siley had long regarded the mark on her face as “a weird birthmark.” Initially small, it began to change in size and shape, prompting concerns from family members who encouraged her to seek medical advice. After an initial visit, a biopsy was performed, and the results came back negative for melanoma. Siley felt relieved, believing her worries had been unfounded.

However, as time passed, her unease grew. Siley began to review old photographs, realizing the mark had not always been present. By this point, it had also changed significantly, becoming irregularly shaped with jagged edges. The Cleveland Clinic advises using the ABCDEs of skin cancer detection, which include asymmetry, border irregularity, color variation, diameter, and evolution of the mark.

During her next annual check-up, Siley insisted on a biopsy despite the previous negative result. Her persistence paid off when, in July 2023, she was diagnosed with Stage II melanoma. Although the news was alarming, she was grateful that the cancer had been detected early, increasing her chances of successful treatment.

Surgery and Recovery

Following her diagnosis, Siley underwent surgery approximately six weeks later to remove the cancerous tissue. Initially expected to be a quick procedure, the surgery took two hours due to the extent of the melanoma’s growth, which was larger than anticipated and located close to her eye. Siley described the recovery process as challenging, stating, “I was in bed for about a week after the surgery. My eye was basically swollen shut, and I didn’t have much of an appetite.” She also acknowledged feelings of fear, especially as a mother of two.

The surgery left her with noticeable scars extending from her cheek to behind her ear, requiring several weeks for stitches to heal. Despite the physical reminders of her ordeal, Siley emphasized the importance of addressing any concerning changes in skin appearance.

According to medical experts, melanoma is among the most common cancers in individuals under 30, particularly affecting women. Roughly 30 percent of melanoma cases originate in existing moles, making regular skin examinations critical for early detection.

Spreading Awareness

Since her diagnosis, Siley has made it her mission to raise awareness about skin health. She actively shares her experience on TikTok, where her posts have garnered over 710,600 views. Siley expressed gratitude for the support she has received, stating, “I’m a survivor and I think these scars have helped others realize how important it is to take care of their skin.” She encourages others to seek medical advice for any skin concerns, asserting, “There is nothing you will regret by getting it looked at.”

Melanoma has a 99 percent cure rate when detected early, reinforcing the need for regular skin checks. Siley’s story serves as a reminder that vigilance and proactive health measures can lead to positive outcomes, allowing individuals to focus on what truly matters—their families and well-being.