At the age of 17, the author was diagnosed with melanoma in situ, the earliest stage of skin cancer where the malignant cells are confined to the top layer of the skin. After two operations, the treatment was considered curative because all the malignant cells were removed. After being released from the specialist's care, he was asked for regular body self-checks. The health worker stated that the author could never relax and emphasized the importance of lifelong vigilance. General practitioners sent him for further examinations for even minor abnormalities, such as unusual birthmarks, given his medical history. In the 10 years since diagnosis, this vigilance has resulted in a persistent state of increased risk of recurrence of the original cancer and new primary melanomas.