A GROUP of about 30 enthusiastic bike riders cycled their way from Perth to Muresk and back on the weekend to raise awareness of melanoma issues.
Melanoma WA co-ordinated the inaugural ride that start in the John Forrest National Park and went through Chidlow, Wooroloo, Wundowie, Bakers Hill, Clackline and Muresk.
The small group’s activities focus on reducing the impact of melanoma on the Western Australian community.
Melanoma is one of the most serious and life threatening forms of skin cancer, and is now the most common form of cancer for 15-39 year olds.
Along with other skin cancers, it is largely preventable.
The group is passionate about delivering its message of prevention to remote and regional communities. It also aim to challenge perception that melanoma is an old person’s disease, by supporting many young people who have had very serious life-threatening cases.
The group stopped along the way so the cyclists could talk about melanoma prevention and share personal stories.
Organisers said there was a lot of amazing research and development going on right now in the treatment of melanoma. Melanoma treatments are paving the way for all other cancers.
Melanoma WA said it was exciting for patients with advanced melanoma – who are experiencing unprecedented success with their prognosis. Their message is that melanoma is mainly preventable through proper UV protective habits and early detection.
