Last year was the first time we marched as Potato’s Pals.

What started as a bit of a joke name quickly turned into something much bigger than we ever expected.

For me, this cause is deeply personal. Just before my 30th birthday, I was diagnosed with stage 3A melanoma. I went into that appointment thinking a spot would be removed and I’d carry on with life as normal. Instead, everything changed.

While my treatment meant ongoing check-ups rather than further intervention — every three months for the first two years, every six months for the next two, and then yearly — the experience itself was traumatic. A diagnosis like that doesn’t just end when the appointment does. It leaves you with ongoing anxiety, moments of panic, and a new awareness that never really switches off.

That’s why Potato’s Pals matters.

Since that first march, what began as friendly banter has grown into a way of spreading melanoma awareness every single day — through Potato’s Pals stickers out in the world, conversations sparked by curiosity, and soon, Potato’s Pals hats. Each one is a reminder to check your skin, protect yourself, and take sun safety seriously.

In 2026, our goal is to create an awareness movement on the day of Melanoma March — to have as many people as possible walking together wearing the hat, standing out, starting conversations, and showing just how powerful visibility can be.

If sharing my story helps even one person feel less alone, or prompts someone to get a spot checked earlier, then it’s worth it.

Thank you for supporting Potato’s Pals — a name that started light-hearted, but now carries real meaning, purpose, and hope 💛🥔