This is Kevin's story:

Taken at the age of 54 from his loving family after a battle with skin cancer. Nobody knew just how serious this cancer was. When diagnosed back in 2012 from one tiny mole, so small it wasn't even the size of a 5p piece we never thought it would come to this just over 3 years later. 

Melanoma the doctors said, ok we thought. A simple operation, removal of the mole, although a deep and thick melanoma no further treatment was required. Done, let's move on and put this behind us.

Then, in 2013 the cancer returns in the lymph glands in his arm, Kevin fought back and returned to work. In 2014, the cancer came back again, this time, in the lymph glands, leg, and 4 small growths in his back. Again Kevin overcame the operations and continued to work.

This year is a different story:

In July, Kevin becomes unwell on holiday, everyone thinks it's a tummy bug being in a different country, when he returns home he feels a bit better.

In August, the sickness is back along with a hard mass in the stomach. GP visits say it may be an internal hernia but more than likely cancer. Exploratory investigations show the cancer has returned.

In September, a PET scan shows numerous tumours in his body. The devastating news that this time Kevin's cancer is inoperable and terminal however with some help of chemotherapy, Kevin's life may be extended.

On the 15th September, chemo is about to begin but something is wrong, Kevin can't breathe. Scans show blood clots in the lungs, he needs oxygen and blood thinners to help disperse them. There is also an infection in the bowel were a tumour has broken through. Kevin is too ill to start his chemo and is admitted to hospital.

One week later on the 22nd September, things are looking better. Kevin can't come home but the antibiotics and blood transfusions are helping, he is fighting the infection and although we have a long way to go hope is there. He is laughing, joking, smiling, being himself. 

By the 24th September, something isn't right, he doesn't look well, he is in pain and then on the 25th September, the Consultants explain the situation, the infection is back again, he needs blood transfusions, his kidneys and circulatory system are failing, they are doing their best but we get asked about resussicitation. At that word Kevin's eyes open, 'I have to try it' There's your answer doctor.

On the 26th September, Kevin lost his battle with Skin Cancer fighting until the end with his family close by. He drifted off to sleep with his wife holding his hand.

At 54, he had everything to live for, a young family, with his first grandchild due 3 weeks after he passed away.

If this story can make someone stop and think about the dangers of Skin Cancer, the sun and UV, then his death is not in vain. He fought a hard battle to the end and everyone is so proud of who he was, what he achieved and what he overcome.

He will forever remain in our hearts, memories, smiles and laughter. Goodnight and God bless. Xxx