Your Story Series: Meet Nick

What is your occupation?

I am a baggage handler at the airport, which involves periods working out on the tarmac at different times of the day in the subtropics.

What is your attitude towards sun protection today?

I'm more serious about sun safety as an adult, particularly so recently with my wife having received treatment for advanced melanoma (Stage 3C). Melanoma is the most common cancer affecting young people, which so many in my age group do not realise. I'm much more careful to wear a wide brimmed hat, apply sunscreen more diligently and seek shade more often.

I have been involved with my workplace health and safety committee improving their sunsafe policies and practices. I have used a number of resources from SunSmart, Melanoma Institute Australia and Sundicators to support this process.

We're a team in life, and in supporting each others' endeavours, so I am pleased to support and join my wife in her advocacy. I do this in ways such as organising activities outside the heat of the day and times of higher UV and making sure she has what she needs to be protected and comfortable. I've also supported her speaking at some events about her experience with melanoma, which has prompted her workplace and colleagues to increase their sun safety and helped fundraising for melanoma.

What would you tell your 16-year-old self about taking care of your skin and sun protection?

Be more diligent with sun safety across the day and at events such as participating and watching sport. Don't worry about being cool and what others may think of you. Take the time to reapply sunscreen and wear clothes that mean you are better protected. It's worth putting in a bit more effort now to set yourself up well for later. You can be a leader by modelling and initiating change.