Sam Champion, the well-known weather anchor for ABC's GMA and WABC, has recently shared his courageous journey with skin cancer. In a series of interviews and social media posts, Champion has opened up about his experience, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment. This article delves into Champion's story, providing insights into his journey and the lessons he has learned along the way.
1. Sam Champion's Diagnosis and Treatment
In October 2024, Sam Champion underwent surgery for skin cancer treatment. Despite being proactive about his skin health, Champion's diagnosis came as a surprise. He had been seeing a dermatologist since the 1980s but decided to switch to Dr. Anthony Rossi, a dermatologist and Mohs surgeon at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, after his previous doctor retired.
Champion's experience underscores the importance of regular check-ups and having a good dermatologist. He emphasized that even with regular checks, skin cancer can still be discovered unexpectedly. 'I want you to be prepared for it,' Champion said. 'I want you to have knowledge so that you're never surprised'.
The Mohs procedure, which involves cutting out the cancerous tissue and examining it under a microscope in real-time, was crucial in Champion's treatment. Dr. Rossi explained that this technique allows for precise removal of cancerous cells while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible. 'We just want to get out the cancer, and especially in these critical areas like where you had it, underneath your eye, we want to preserve as much tissue as possible because that tissue means something,' Dr. Rossi said.
Champion's first experience with skin cancer was at age 26. He shared that as people get older, skin cancer becomes more noticeable. However, his early diagnosis highlights the importance of vigilance and regular check-ups. 'These skin cancers can grow like icebergs,' Dr. Rossi noted. 'So, sometimes we only see the tip of the iceberg on top of the skin, and then as we go down and cut through, we actually see it get wider or deeper'.
2. Raising Awareness for Early Detection
Sam Champion has been actively raising awareness about skin cancer through his social media platforms. He has been answering questions from viewers and sharing his experiences to educate others about the importance of early detection and prevention. By sharing his journey, Champion aims to make sure that no one is surprised by a skin cancer diagnosis.
Champion's goal is to encourage people to be proactive about their skin health. He emphasizes the need for regular check-ups with a good dermatologist and the importance of protecting one's skin from the sun. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association, protecting your skin from the sun can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer, sunburn, and premature skin aging like age spots, sagging, and wrinkles.
Champion's message is clear: knowledge is power when it comes to skin health. By being prepared and vigilant, individuals can reduce their risk of developing skin cancer. His story serves as a reminder that even with proactive measures in place, unexpected diagnoses can still occur. However, with the right treatment and support, recovery is possible.
3. The Importance of Regular Check-Ups
Regular check-ups with a dermatologist are crucial for early detection of skin cancer. Champion's experience underscores this point. Despite his regular visits to the dermatologist, his skin cancer was discovered unexpectedly. This highlights the importance of having a good dermatologist who knows your skin well and can identify potential issues early on.
Dr. Anthony Rossi emphasized that these skin cancers can grow like icebergs, meaning they may appear small on the surface but can be much larger and deeper than initially thought. The Mohs procedure allows doctors to cut out the cancerous tissue and examine it under a microscope in real-time, ensuring that all cancerous cells are removed while preserving as much healthy tissue as possible.
Champion's story also highlights the importance of finding the right doctor. He took his time to find Dr. Rossi, recognizing that it would be a lifelong relationship. 'I agree with you,' Dr. Rossi said. 'These are the people who know my skin. They're looking at it at least once a year. Any place I see that I don't like I'm showing to them'.
4. Common Types of Skin Cancer
Skin cancer is an abnormal growth of skin cells that is usually caused by sun exposure. There are several common types of skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, melanoma, Merkel cell carcinoma, dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, and sebaceous cell carcinoma.
Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer and typically appears as a small, shiny bump on the skin. Squamous cell carcinoma is another common type and can appear as a firm, red nodule or a flat, red patch. Melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and can appear as a new mole or a change in an existing mole.
Understanding what a dermatologist can do for you is crucial in preventing and treating skin cancer. Selecting the right doctor and following their recommendations can significantly improve your chances of early detection and successful treatment.
5. Conclusion
Sam Champion's journey with skin cancer serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and prevention. By sharing his story, Champion aims to educate others about the risks associated with skin cancer and the importance of regular check-ups with a good dermatologist. His message is clear: knowledge is power when it comes to skin health.
