A Labour MP was diagnosed with skin cancer after a mole on his arm, which he caught on a piece of chicken wire, developed into a lesion. Ben Goldsborough, 34, revealed that following a check-up with his doctor, he was diagnosed with stage two melanoma – a type of skin cancer.
The South Norfolk MP, who took office last year, decided to share his diagnosis to explain any potential impact on his local work. He told the BBC that he will undergo a year of immunotherapy following surgery on his arm.
Mr Goldsborough also shared his experience of receiving such a shocking diagnosis at a young age. He described it as “the worst out of body experience you ever get”. He said: “It’s like you’re present but not there at the same time. At 34, this is not one of the things you plan for.”
Despite his ordeal, Mr Goldsborough is determined to continue his parliamentary work, drawing inspiration from fellow MP Chris Bryant, who is also undergoing cancer treatment.
According to Cancer Research UK, melanoma “is a type of cancer that starts in cells called melanocytes. These are found in the skin, the layer of tissue lining some parts of your body (mucous membrane) and the eye”, reports Surrey Live.
The NHS has explained that melanoma is a type of skin cancer “that can spread to other areas of the body” and the treatment approach “depends on where it is, if it has spread to other areas of your body and your general health”.
What are the symptoms
Melanoma can be identified in several ways, such as a mole that changes over time – much like what Mr Goldsborough experienced, or the appearance of a new mole.
The NHS advises looking out for any unusual changes including: a mole with an uneven shape or edges, a mole with a mix of colours, a large mole (as moles are typically small), or a mole that becomes swollen, sore, bleeding, itchy, or crusty over time.
When it comes to treating melanoma, the NHS states that surgery is the primary method, although radiotherapy and chemotherapy may also be used.
Who is Ben Goldsborough?
Ben Goldsborough, aged 34, is the MP for South Norfolk. He was elected in last year’s General Election, succeeding former Conservative MP Richard Bacon.
Prior to his political career, Ben was “Head Associate of a consultancy company – responsible for supporting charities and thought leaders in getting their message across”.