We hear about it. We read about it. But, until it hits someone we know, we don’t pay much attention to it. I’m talking about sunscreen, skin cancer and the devastating effects it has on people.
SafeSun™ is an organization that installs sunscreen dispensers in local parks and beaches that makes no excuse for not using it. Kids, people who walk by, whoever can use these sunscreen dispensers to protect themselves from the sun’s harmful rays. People tend to get lazy about sunscreen, but it should be done as part of your daily routine, like getting dressed. Get sun dressed too! As Fran Nachlas says, “You brush your teeth. You put on your sunscreen.”
SafeSun™ was started by Fran, a nurse, and her husband Nathan Nachlas, a Boca Raton reconstructive surgeon. Not only are they keenly aware of skin cancer, they also lost a family member to melanoma. It hit home for them too. They do wonderful work in the community hosting many charity events to raise money for their organization, including Run from the Rays. This allows Fran and her organization to continue to install, fill and repair sunscreen dispensers in the area.
Reading about Fran’s work really hit home with me, as skin cancer runs in my family, too. Anyone who knows me will usually see signs of zinc, my favorite sunscreen! It gets on everything, clothes, handbags, my car and drives me crazy, but still I use it. Why? Because I watched the devastating effects of skin cancer. When I complained to my dermatologist it’s like glue and it gets all over everything, his answer was “I love it!” That’s because I’m using it!
It’s a point that needs to be driven home. Most sun damage is done early in life. If you educate kids to use sunscreen early, hopefully they will listen. If we can prevent this dreaded disease by using sunscreen, isn’t it worth it? I think so!
Fran Nachlas is doing a great job of educating the public and raising awareness about sunscreen and preventing skin cancer through her organization. This is truly a family to be commended!
You can contact Fran at Safe Sun™ Foundation here.
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