Vanderbilt football player Turner Cockrell dies of Melanoma
Ernie Davis. Freddie Steinmark. Joe Roth. Sal Aunese.
The foursome had two things in common. All four were major college football players. All four died of cancer.
Sadly, they were joined by Vanderbilt University Tight End Turner Cockrell. He died on November 29th, after a year long battle with Melanoma.
Cockrell was first diagnosed in August of 2017 when Melanoma was found in his lymph nodes. He had surgery and that was followed by twenty weeks of radiation treatments. Last July, it was revealed that the Melanoma had spread into his lungs. Four months later, he was gone at age twenty-one. TWENTY-ONE!!
Here's the story about Melanoma: If it's detected in the early stages, it's very curable. If it's detected in the later stages, your life expectancy is five years or less.
Prevention is the key, so here's some tips on how to avoid getting Melanoma: . Use sunscreen, even in the winter. . Stay out of the during peak periods . Wear sun protective clothing. Hats, long sleeves, sunglasses . Never EVER get in a tanning booth . Do a monthly self body check for new moles . See your dermatologist yearly for a full body check
One other tip...if you do find yourself with Melanoma or any other skin cancer, don't mess around. Take care of it asap. I know that sounds obvious but you'd be surprised how many wait. Early treatment increases your odds of cure and survival.
Because of Melanoma, Turner Cockrell never played a game of football for Vanderbilt. Yet, he was awarded the game ball after a season opening victory over Middle Tennessee.
Once again, #FuckCancer
Related Post: The connection between Parkinson's Disease and Melanoma
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