Captain Jason Chambers of Below Deck Down Under recently shared his experience with melanoma, a type of skin cancer. Diagnosed in December, Chambers discovered the cancer after noticing changes in a sunspot on his left side. He admitted feeling embarrassed that he hadn’t taken better care of his skin in the sun, especially given his profession and Australian background.
After noticing the change in the sunspot, Chambers consulted a doctor who advised immediate removal. The diagnosis and the prospect of surgery were initially overwhelming. Skin cancer, as explained by The Mayo Clinic, is the abnormal growth of skin cells often caused by exposure to the sun’s UV rays. The Skin Cancer Foundation classifies melanoma as one of the three major types of skin cancer.
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Chambers underwent two procedures to remove the melanoma. He expressed regret for his previous lack of sun safety precautions, especially considering Australia’s high incidence and mortality rates for melanoma. The CDC warns that unprotected skin can be damaged by the sun in just 15 minutes.
Following the successful surgeries, Chambers received positive news on Christmas Eve: the melanoma was fully removed, and his prognosis was good, with only a 5% chance of recurrence. He now has a six-inch scar as a reminder of his experience.
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This health scare has prompted Chambers to adopt a more proactive approach to sun safety, following Australia’s “slip, slop, slap” campaign: slip on protective clothing, slop on sunscreen, and slap on a hat. He’s also instilling these habits in his 10-year-old daughter.
Beyond sun protection, Chambers is prioritizing his overall well-being. He maintains a healthy lifestyle with daily walks, yoga, band exercises, ice baths, and sauna sessions. In addition to his existing meditation and breathwork practices, he’s embracing therapy and working with a manifesting coach to improve his mental health.
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Chambers views 2024 as a year of personal growth and transformation. After facing numerous challenges in the previous year, including his father’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, his mother’s health issues, and the loss of a close friend, he’s determined to prioritize both his physical and mental well-being. He’s committed to honoring his friend’s memory by living life to the fullest. The new season of Below Deck Down Under premieres on Bravo. Check your local listings for showtimes.
