Tuesday Thoughts

According to the statistics, the U.S. has lost over 1100 loved ones to melanoma since the hour of Brian's death. Call me crazy for figuring that up, but it is just baffling to me that 1100 families are reeling with grief similar to mine, caused by the same beast. 1100! And that is just in the last 46 days.

Below is a link to the American Academy of Dermatology regarding Vitamin D. As much as I would like to preach about tanning beds, I have chosen not to make that my focus. Strictly in my opinion, I doubt there are really all that many people out there getting a glow from a tanning bed who seriously think there is no risk. It is just a matter of choices. I used to tan also and I like being tan. I just didn't think it mattered all that much, and now that my husband suffered so terribly and is now dead...well, now I DO think it matters.

There are lots of healthy ways to get your Vitamin D without endangering your life. You aren't going to hear me say much of anything about staying out of the sun completely, more about being safe and smart in the sun.
http://www.aad.org/media/background/factsheets/fact_vitamind.htm

I'm including a link to another skin exam video. I going to keep drilling you with this easy way to protect yourself. This video points out the importance of checking between fingers and toes and on the bottoms of your feet.

Examine Your Skin Video
http://www.melanomainternational.org/minfo_examine.asp

I also found this link. Again, I am not promoting any products, just trying to get information infront of you. This website gives some additional suggestions on being safe in the sun, and other ways to teach your children.
http://www.azmedassn.org/publications/topics/sun_safety.pdf