Renee Marchment - Stage 3 Melanoma Survivor

“I was diagnosed with a malignant melanoma and given a 40 – 60% chance of survival at 24 years of age.  I was a new mum and a cancer patient – our lives were turned upside down,” she said.

Renee’s most extensive surgery was the removal of all the lymph nodes from her left groin where a cluster of tumours were found.

Her surgery was part of a 60 Minutes story that aired in February of 2005, Dying for a Tan, where she was one of four patients to share their story including a man in his 50’s, a young father at 28, Renee at 24 and a 16-year-old boy. Sadly, she is the only survivor.

“I have donated to and participated in other fundraising events in the past but the creation of my 6to6swim challenge was a quest to help bring further awareness to Australia’s National Cancer in the hope of raising funds to help the MIA team in their mission to find a cure and bring zero deaths from Melanoma with a special twist – swimming under moonlight to ensure sun protection.”

During the 6to6swim Renee completed 1168 laps totalling a distance of 29.2kms and raising $16,576.00 for melanoma research.

“I am a big believer in the power of positivity, the power of the mind and focusing on the positives of life instead of the negatives.  I choose to be optimistic because it makes me feel better.” 

“However, the reality of the current statistics is frightening. Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting 15 – 39 year old Australians, killing one Australian every 5 hours. I have hope though that one day there will be a cure for melanoma and am passionate and dedicated in helping the MIA achieve their goal.  I want to continue raising further awareness, to contribute to helping make a difference with researching cures, clinical care and educating our youth and communities to help show that protecting your skin is cooler than not.”

Renee’s message is that early detection is the key and getting a skin check is so important.

We are greatful to Renee for joining us at the 2020 Melanoma March here at The Strand where she will share her story and rally with us to raise funds for the Melanoma Institute of Australia's Melanoma March.