Aged only 28, Project Manager Rachael Horne’s world was upturned when a small, insignificant spot on her toe was diagnosed as early-stage melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.

Grappling with this unexpected diagnosis, Rachael was quickly referred to a surgeon to partially amputate her toe. Surgery and recovery were physically and emotionally challenging and Rachael’s melanoma journey continues as she remains on a long-term care plan.

With Australia having the highest melanoma rates in the world and the startling fact that it’s the most common cancer affecting 20–39-year-old Australians, Rachael is keen to share her experience to help raise awareness about melanoma and early detection.