Mother Discovers Melanoma After Demanding Skin Biopsy

After years of dismissing a small mark on her cheek as a benign birthmark, Courtney Siley, 36, received a life-altering diagnosis of Stage II melanoma. Her journey began with a simple insistence on a skin biopsy, which ultimately revealed the seriousness of her condition.

From Concern to Diagnosis

Siley first noticed the mark on her face during her early twenties, but it remained relatively unnoticed until it began to change in size and shape. Family members encouraged her to seek medical advice, prompting her to consult a doctor. Initially, a biopsy for melanoma came back negative, leading her to believe it was indeed just a birthmark. “I felt good and relieved that it wasn’t anything,” Siley recalled from her home in Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Despite the initial results, Siley continued to monitor the mark. Over time, it grew larger and developed jagged edges, raising her concerns once more. Recognizing the difficulty in distinguishing between benign skin changes and melanoma, she followed the Cleveland Clinic‘s ABCDE guidelines for skin cancer: Asymmetry, Border, Color, Diameter, and Evolving.

At her next annual check-up, Siley insisted on a biopsy, stating, “I told the doctor I wanted it biopsied, regardless of what the last test said.” Her persistence paid off when she was diagnosed with melanoma in July 2023.

Facing the Challenge

Siley’s diagnosis was alarming, but she felt fortunate that it was discovered early. Melanoma is particularly prevalent among individuals under 30, especially women, with approximately 30 percent of cases originating from existing moles, according to research from the Cleveland Clinic.

Following her diagnosis, Siley underwent surgery approximately six weeks later to remove the melanoma. Initially expected to be a quick, 45-minute procedure, the surgery extended to two hours due to the extent of the cancer near her eye. “I was in bed for about a week after the surgery,” she said. “My eye was basically swollen shut, I didn’t have much of an appetite, and I also think I was slightly depressed with everything going on.”

Reflecting on her experience, Siley emphasized the importance of vigilance regarding skin health. “To think I went mistreated and how much worse it could’ve gotten if I didn’t demand that biopsy at my next appointment,” she noted. The surgery resulted in significant scarring, but she now views her scars as reminders of her journey and advocates for skin checks.

With a 99 percent cure rate when caught early, Siley encourages others to not overlook any skin changes. “There is nothing you will regret by getting it looked at,” she stated, highlighting the necessity of early detection.

Sharing her story on social media, particularly on TikTok, Siley’s experience resonated with many, garnering over 710,600 views. “I’m a survivor, and I think these scars have helped others realize how important it is to take care of their skin,” she remarked. “But I’m alive and I’m here for my kids, and that’s all that matters.”

Siley’s journey serves as a reminder of the critical nature of regular check-ups and being proactive about changes in one’s health. Her experience highlights that early intervention can lead to successful outcomes, underscoring the importance of listening to one’s body and advocating for personal health.