Dear Melanoma: How one mole changed Emma Betts’ life | Australian Story
ABC News In-depth・19 minutes read
Emma Betts, diagnosed with melanoma at 21, shared her journey with cancer on her blog, "Dear Melanoma," raising awareness about the disease and the importance of early detection. Despite her passing, Emma's legacy lives on through her family, who continue to advocate for melanoma awareness and research, participating in events like the Melanoma March to find a cure.
Insights
- Melanoma, the most prevalent cancer in 15 to 39-year-olds, is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among young adults, highlighting the critical need for awareness and early detection to combat this aggressive disease.
- Emma Betts' courageous journey with melanoma, detailed in her blog "Dear Melanoma," not only raised awareness about the disease but also inspired others to prioritize skin checks, emphasizing the impact of individual advocacy in promoting health and preventive measures.
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Recent questions
What is melanoma?
Skin cancer that can be deadly if untreated.
Who was Emma Betts?
A young woman who battled melanoma.
How did Emma Betts raise awareness about melanoma?
Through her blog "Dear Melanoma" and fundraising efforts.
What treatment did Emma Betts undergo for melanoma?
Immunotherapy trial that reduced her tumors significantly.
How did Emma Betts want her funeral to be?
A happy celebration with music, champagne, and laughter.
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Summary
00:00
Emma Betts: Melanoma Journey and Legacy
- Emma Betts, a young woman, was diagnosed with melanoma at 21 after a stranger suggested she check a mole on her shoulder.
- Melanoma is the most common cancer in 15 to 39-year-olds and the leading cause of cancer death in young adults.
- Emma, initially pursuing a career in aid work, had a mole discovered during a scuba diving trip, leading to her diagnosis.
- Despite a seemingly minor mole removal, Emma's cancer spread to her lymph nodes, liver, and other organs rapidly.
- Emma's husband, Serge, stood by her throughout her treatment, proposing to her and supporting her through various trials and treatments.
- Emma's participation in an immunotherapy trial led to a significant reduction in her tumors, offering hope for Stage 4 melanoma patients.
- Emma's blog, "Dear Melanoma," detailed her journey with cancer, attracting a large following and raising awareness about the disease.
- Emma's fundraising efforts for melanoma research, despite knowing it wouldn't save her, aimed to help others facing similar battles.
- Emma's disease eventually progressed beyond treatment, leading to her acceptance of her impending death and organizing her own funeral.
- Emma passed away in March, leaving behind a legacy of advocacy, love, and a reminder of the importance of early detection and awareness of melanoma.
20:39
Emma's Joyful Legacy Lives On
- Emma wanted a happy funeral with music she chose, avoiding sad photos, and including champagne, scones, and laughter with friends.
- Emma's battle with cancer ended in a celebration of her life at her funeral, marked by laughter and her favorite song, "Horses" by Daryl Braithwaite.
- Emma's blog inspired many to get skin checks, leading to early melanoma detection for some, emphasizing the importance of sun safety and regular check-ups.
- Despite the loss, Emma's family continues her legacy, advocating for melanoma awareness and research, participating in events like the Melanoma March to find a cure.
