What may be a timely warning to others. About 2 months ago I noticed a small lump on my hand that I had subconsciously scratched and had formed a dry scaley skin. If I had to describe the size I would estimate that it was about half the size of a 5 cent piece.

I, under the urging of a family member, attended the doctor who took a small biopsy which returned cancerous and I, thanks to an excellent hospital system, was seen by a surgeon at Canberra Hospital who designated my lump Stage 1 which apparently meant it was to be dealt with within 30 days.. and it was.

The surgery was carried out under local anaesthetic although I could not see the procedure because of a 'tent' obscuring my view. I was concerned as the time ticked on past what I estimate to be about 30 minutes and the pressure and 'tugging' of stitching made me wonder how such a small lesion  could require so much fuss. A week later I discovered why.

I learned there was internal stitching and a continuous stitch to close. The size of the lesion was not to be determined by the visual inspection.

Get unusual spots on your skin checked early folks. Especially any Australian readers who, like me, spent most of their early life basking in the Aussie sun. The above photo was taken 7 days after surgery and was the first time I saw it.