Video game superstar Tyler Blevins, better known as Ninja, shocked fans this week with the news that he has been diagnosed with melanoma, a form of skin cancer. The 32-year-old revealed on social media that a mole on his foot was removed during a routine checkup with a dermatologist, and it was confirmed to be melanoma.
Despite the scary diagnosis, Mr. Blevins remains optimistic as doctors believe they caught the cancer in its early stages. He also mentioned that a second dark spot on his foot was removed and is currently being examined with hopes that it is non-melanoma.
With a massive online following, Ninja has made appearances on popular shows like “The Masked Singer” and “The Ellen DeGeneres Show.” His willingness to share his diagnosis with the public is a reminder of the importance of regular skin checkups and early detection.
Melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that accounts for a majority of skin cancer deaths, although it only makes up about 1 percent of all diagnosed cases. The American Cancer Society estimates that over 100,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed in the United States this year, leading to around 8,000 deaths.
Experts emphasize the importance of regular skin checks, especially for those with lighter skin tones and a history of sun exposure. Mr. Blevins plans to use his platform to raise awareness about skin cancer and encourage others to prioritize their health.
As the gaming community rallies around Ninja during this difficult time, his message serves as a powerful reminder to prioritize health and wellness, no matter how busy or successful one may be.
