Andrew grew up in Sydney’s Sutherland Shire, spending much of his youth in the water, wearing a maximum of SPF 15 (if he remembered to slop it on). Like many kids growing up in the 70s and 80s, Andrew was told that having a tan meant you were healthy. Now a father of three who knows the real risk of too much sun exposure, his household is held to higher, more sun-safe standards.

Andrew considers himself one of the lucky ones. In 2018, a melanoma was surgically removed from the back of his calf. Three years later, after noticing a lump forming on this old scar, Andrew was then diagnosed with Stage III melanoma. This diagnosis was followed by surgery to remove his lymph nodes and then 12 months of immunotherapy. Thankfully, Andrew now shows no evidence of disease, and is eager to educate fellow Australians on the real damage the sun can cause.

‘Melanoma doesn’t differentiate – anyone can get it. There’s a myth of “I’ve got this certain gene, skin type or heritage, therefore I won’t get melanoma”, and this isn’t the case. I’m trying to dispel this myth, because we’re all susceptible to melanoma, and all should be responsible for the next generation. This means practicing sun safety and educating others on it.’

As a member of the MIA Speakers' Hub, Andrew is keen to use his personal journey as a cautionary tale for others in the hope that they will think twice when it comes to sun safety. His powerful presentation isn’t one to miss.