Powerclub Manager shares her melanoma journey to raise awareness
Linda, Gym Manager at The Powerclub in ScottishPower’s Glasgow HQ, is sharing her personal experience with melanoma to encourage others to be vigilant about changes in their skin and enjoy the sun safely.
In June 2024, while on holiday in Gran Canaria with her partner and daughter, Linda noticed a new black mole on her leg. “I just knew something wasn’t right,” she recalls. On returning home, she contacted her doctor immediately. After a 20-week wait for a specialist appointment, the mole was removed and tested. Within a week, Linda received the call confirming it was melanoma.
What followed was a challenging journey: several biopsies, surgeries and scans to ensure the cancer hadn’t spread. At one point, further tests revealed melanoma had reached deeper tissue, requiring a more invasive operation and lymph node checks. Thankfully, Linda was eventually given the all-clear, but the experience was life changing.
“It still feels surreal,” Linda says. “You think it’s just a mole, but melanoma can spread quickly. If you notice anything unusual, don’t ignore it - get it checked.”
Linda attends regular check-ups and has become passionate about sun safety, urging others to stay safe in the sun and avoid tanning beds.
Too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or sunbeds is the main cause of skin cancer. In the UK, the sun can be strong enough to damage skin from mid-March to mid-October, even on cloudy or cool days. The UV index is a helpful guide to how strong the sun’s rays are, when it’s 3 or above, it’s time to think about protecting your skin.
“I’m grateful for the amazing care I received and the support from my loved ones. This experience taught me how vital it is to be body aware.” “If you spot any changes in your skin - no matter how small – get it checked out. Early detection saves lives.”
Reflecting on her journey
Linda is now also keen to help people reduce their risk. The best way to enjoy the sun safely is to use a combination of shade, clothing and sunscreen. Spending time in the shade during the middle of the day, covering up with clothes, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses, and applying sunscreen with at least SPF 30 and 4 or 5 stars help us protect our skin and enjoy the sun safely.
Last updated: 11 August 2026