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In this episode of Act to Impact, Leah shares her journey from new mom to melanoma survivor—and how she’s now on a mission to make skin checks routine, sun safety non-negotiable, and awareness personal for families everywhere.

Through her platform Make Derm Sure and her community advocacy work, Leah is helping parents understand that skin cancer doesn’t just happen later in life—it often starts with damage in childhood.

From building a shade pavilion at her child’s school to teaching kids how to apply sunscreen like they brush their teeth, Leah is proof that small, consistent actions can save lives.

If you’ve ever thought, “It won’t happen to me,” this conversation will change that—and show you exactly what to do next.

👉 Don’t forget to follow, rate, and share this episode to help more families stay safe in the sun.

🔑 Key Takeaways

• Skin cancer can start young.
  Melanoma isn’t just an “older adult” issue—damage often begins in childhood and adolescence. 
• One simple appointment can save your life.
  Leah’s melanoma was caught during her first-ever skin check—scheduled only because her mom told her to go. 
• Awareness isn’t enough—action matters.
  Scheduling a skin check, reapplying sunscreen, and noticing changes in your skin can make all the difference. 
• Sunscreen should be a daily habit.
  Just like brushing your teeth, SPF—especially on your face—should be part of your everyday routine (yes, even on cloudy days). 
• Reapplication is where most people get it wrong.
  Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours—and after swimming or sweating. 
• Advocacy can start small and grow big.
  Leah began by sharing her story and went on to raise funds and build a shade pavilion for her community. 
• You don’t have to be an expert to make an impact.
  Start by sharing your story, making connections, and taking one step forward. 
• Your voice could save someone’s life.
  Leah speaking up helped detect melanoma early in someone she knew—proof that conversations matter.

Take a moment today to share this episode with a friend, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, or subscribe on YouTube so more people can learn about this important issue.

Subscribe and Follow: Don’t miss an episode! New episodes drop every other Wednesday.

Hosted by Brandi DeVries: Advocate, fundraiser, and former Mrs. Minnesota International 2025.

Thank you to guest Leah Koskinen (@makedermsure)

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IG: instagram.com/brandi.devries
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