Our Staff Gets Out!

We know that spending time in nature helps us disconnect, reduce stress and recharge. Research shows being outside benefits body, spirit and soul. Some of The Skin Cancer Foundation’s team members share shots of their recent outdoor adventures, from wilderness to urban — plus a few tips about sun protection along the way.

 

Hiking Companions

Staci’s dogs, Mei and Sen, are excited to head outside for a day of hiking in the Catskills. The dogs can’t wait to hit the trails but are firmly strapped into the Jeep for safe travel. As for sun safety, Staci wears a visor and sunglasses, applies her sunscreen before getting dressed and carries a stick version to reapply. — Staci Pierson, senior director of strategic partnerships

Bridal Party

Victoria loved celebrating her bride-to-be daughter on a pre-wedding cruise in Cape May, New Jersey. The two are often active outdoors and believe in hats, sunglasses and tons of sunscreen. Victoria, who has had two skin cancers, takes the sun seriously and provided sunscreen for all the guests onboard. — Victoria Kopec, director of marketing communications

Brimming with Style

Ali lives in Midtown Manhattan, where “you take your outdoors how you can. Rooftops are our backyard, and often the sun beats down and there is no shade. I used to be a little shy about wearing a super large-brimmed hat in the city, but I ended up loving this one and taking it to the beach and other places. Finding a style that works for you is key.” — Ali Venosa, marketing communications manager

Make Your Own Shade

Julie was grateful for Central Park as a nearby nature refuge during the pandemic, but she knows how vulnerable redheads of Celtic heritage are to sun damage. She says her hot-pink bamboo parasol protects from various angles, prevents hat hair, fits easily in her tote and is a fun conversation-starter, too. — Julie Bain, senior director of science & education

Cycling Solutions

Paul is a passionate cyclist who races to raise money for MS. He wears UV-blocking wraparound sunglasses and the latest high-tech UPF 50+ gear for athletes (protective yet breathable). During this 55-mile ride in Upstate New York, he’s crossing the Walkway over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie. He religiously rehydrates and reapplies his high SPF sunscreen. Then he continues to test his mettle on the pedal! — Paul Melia, director of education operations

 

Alaska Adventure

Stephanie traveled to Alaska to meet up with her son (in Anchorage, above) and husband, who had been backpacking in Denali National Park. They stayed in a yurt and spotted orcas in the wild from Humpy Cove in Resurrection Bay. No matter what the weather, she says, “Start wearing sunscreen as young as possible to avoid aging — and wear a hat!” — Stephanie Ogozalek, science & education program manager

 

At the Beach

Krista and her husband and three girls (pictured with her youngest) live on Long Island, surrounded by beautiful beaches. She tells her kids, “We can enjoy the beach as long as we’re being smart about the sun.” That means umbrellas, hats, sunscreen and being out only during off-peak hours.  —Krista Bennett DeMaio, senior editor

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