Former netballer's melanoma scare

Netballer Adine Wilson makes sure her son, Harper, is protected against sunburn. Photo / Brett Phibbs

Former Silver Ferns netball captain Adine Wilson is hoping her own brush with melanoma will add impact to this summer's SunSmart campaign.

The Melanoma Foundation ambassador said she was 25 and had no history of skin cancer when she was diagnosed with melanoma after a small freckle on her arm changed colour and became itchy.

Wilson is now clear of cancer, but still checks her skin and has annual checks from a dermatologist.

She knows that a childhood spent outdoors unprotected from the sun played a large part in her cancer.

"I don't ever remember covering up against the sun or using sunscreen."

Wilson is now extremely careful to protect herself and 18-month-old son Harper from the sun.

"You can have fun and still be safe from sunburn by following the slip, slop, slap and wrap rules."

- NZPA