Father-of-Six Faces Skin Cancer Battle After Ignoring Symptoms

When Stephen Gray, a father of six, noticed a small bump on his back while cutting turf, he thought little of it. Initially dismissing it as a minor issue, he later faced a shocking diagnosis of skin cancer after the mole began to change significantly. Now, he is advocating for greater awareness of skin health and the importance of seeking medical advice for unusual symptoms.

Gray felt a lump on his back in September 2022, shortly after he experienced a horsefly bite in the same area. Over time, the mole started to rise, bleed, and seep, prompting his family to encourage him to seek medical attention. Reluctantly, he visited a doctor in March 2023, where it was first suspected to be an aggravated cyst, leading to a referral for further examination.

After several months of monitoring, the seriousness of the situation became evident. In October 2023, the mole was surgically removed, but a follow-up procedure was necessary in January 2024 to ensure all affected tissue was excised. Following these surgeries, Gray received the unexpected diagnosis: he had skin cancer.

“I was stunned, absolutely shocked,” Gray remarked about the news. The uncertainty surrounding his diagnosis led him to question how long the cancer had been developing and if he had waited too long to seek help.

In March 2024, Gray began immunotherapy as part of a clinical trial at Beaumont Hospital, becoming the first participant to complete the program. Treatment sessions took place every three weeks, gradually impacting his energy levels. The fatigue became particularly pronounced after each session, ultimately forcing him to stop working.

Further tests revealed a small percentage of cancer cells in his lymph nodes, adding another layer of anxiety to an already challenging situation. Gray was grateful to have been recommended for a blind trial at Beaumont Hospital, which delayed the start of his treatment but ultimately proved beneficial for his recovery.

The emotional strain of the diagnosis affected not only Gray but also his family, particularly his children. “During all of this, I had to get the lymph nodes tested as well, and luckily enough I did, as there was a percentage of it there,” he explained.

Since completing the trial in March 2025, Gray has been undergoing regular scans every 12 weeks and dermatology check-ups every six months. He credits the Irish Cancer Society for providing crucial support throughout his journey, helping him understand his diagnosis and guiding him through each phase of treatment.

“I’m now doing fine—because of the trial, they’re still keeping on top of it,” Gray noted. He has since changed jobs and returned to full-time work, feeling optimistic about his health.

Before his diagnosis, Gray admits he had limited awareness of skin cancer and did not know anyone who had faced the illness. Now, he is committed to sharing his experience to encourage others to prioritize their skin health. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing key signs of melanoma, including the appearance of new moles or changes in existing ones.

Gray encourages everyone to be proactive about their skin health, stating, “If you notice something appearing or changing on your skin in any way, go to your doctor and get it checked out—don’t wait.” He also advocates for daily sun protection, wearing appropriate clothing, and regular skin checks as part of a comprehensive health routine.

Reflecting on his journey, Gray believes there is still a lack of awareness about skin cancer, particularly among men. He aims to change this narrative by sharing his story and emphasizing the necessity of early detection and intervention.

As he continues to navigate life post-diagnosis, Gray remains determined to educate others about the importance of skin health, hoping to prevent others from facing the same challenges he did.