Sun protection doesn't usually come up as a priority to most people. Umbrellas come to mind usually when it rains. But the two together, as I've discovered, provide for a very necessary product in the fight against skin cancer. Protection against skin cancer has become a mission for me after being diagnosed with melanoma. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer and if left undetected, can be fatal. In fact, the American Cancer Society is estimating that in 2007, there will be close to 60,000 new diagnoses of skin cancer in the U.S. Of that number, skin cancer will be diagnosed in 57% of males and 43% of women.

I was lucky because my melanoma was caught and treated early. Early recognition and treatment (in my case surgery) has been known to result in a 100% cure rate. But constant vigilance is important because the sun won't go away nor do I want it to disappear. You see, I love the sun and I love the beach. I spent my summers on the beach as a child and will continue to do with my family. This near death experience taught me that living doesn't mean giving up what I love. It taught me to fight for what I love and those I love. Thus, I'm constantly on the lookout for products that will help me in my battle with skin cancer... and maintain my quality of life.

Another fact I've discovered, melanoma runs in my family. My brother and cousin were diagnosed a couple of years ago. Not only can you inherit the charm and wit, and a true passion for survival, from being Irish, you also get the fair skin that burns easily in the hot sun. We all loved to spend summers on the beach with little or no sun protection when we were younger. All we cared about then was sand, surf, swimming, ocean waves, and funnel cakes! No one cared about protecting your skin back then. Now that is all we think about when we're out in the sun or at the beach. The best product we found to help fight our battle against skin cancer, while keeping our love for the beach alive, is the UV-Blocker Beach Umbrella.

The UV-Blocker Umbrella provides the best protection from the sun's harmful UV rays. It has the best UPF on the market today with a UPF rating of 129. This umbrella is amazing since it allows me to stay out on the beach, keep cool, and stays in place despite high winds. I still use sunblock and make sure I have appropriate clothing to minimize any chance of a recurrence but most of all; I'm able to be with my family at the beach or at picnics. UV-Blocker also sells golf umbrellas for those interested in keeping up at the links. I'd rather be at the beach!

Each day is a blessing because I have another day to see my family thrive, to see the waves roll over the sand, and to feel the sun warm the earth... not burn my skin simply because I have the UV-Blocker umbrella to protect me and my family. This year I am thankful for my life and for UV-Blocker Umbrellas. Hey, a UV-Blocker Umbrella will make a Great Christmas Gift!