Maddy Vonhoff, President Elect at Seattle Rotary Service Foundation, Policy and Advocacy Manager at Committee for Children, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Last year, I was diagnosed with stage 1 skin cancer. The bill was $2,000. The hidden costs not on my bill were time, logistics, 10+ appointments, and all the stress and worry that comes with it. All for one case that, thankfully, was caught early, was manageable, and is now resolved.
I feel incredibly grateful. I had access to the best care in the world living in Seattle, incredible health insurance, and a supportive workplace environment. But during this time in my life, I thought a lot about how much it cost to get through my one case and how that only begins to reflect how overwhelming and severe cancer can be for others, especially in rural communities or without strong support systems.
May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month. As an advocate, I always have a direct ask so here’s some things you can do!
If you have been putting off a skin check, consider this your sign to schedule it! Trust your gut, I’m glad I trusted mine.
I spent over a decade advocating for eradicating preventable diseases like TB, malaria, and HIV/AIDS. These are obvious, important issues I care deeply about, but a huge, neglected part of global health is cancer care. Organizations like The Max Foundation are working to close that gap, helping patients around the world access lifesaving cancer treatment. I’m sure they would appreciate any and all support!
If you know someone going through cancer or another health issue, check in beyond the early days and offer rides, dinner, a listening ear, or just some company.
Early detection and access to care made all the difference for me. Everyone deserves that same chance.”
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