A local advocate who wants to help prevent others from developing a deadly form of skin cancer is hosting her annual Strides for Melanoma awareness and fundraising walk tomorrow.

Bev Barbour was diagnosed with melanoma several years ago, a diagnosis that she says came as a complete shock.

Barbour noticed a small mole on her leg and had it checked out thinking the doctor would dismiss it. Instead, she was diagnosed with melanoma; an aggressive form of skin cancer. She underwent a series of treatments and recently learned the cancer is back.

Through the Melanoma Network of Canada she is trying to spread the word on melanoma awareness, by advocating prevention through protection of the skin from the harmful effects of UV rays.

Melanoma affects people of all skin tones. She says even on cloudy, overcast or rainy days, the UV index can be high.

She says in recent years the UV index has become even more extreme, going as high as 11 in some cases.

The walk is set for tomorrow at 1:00 p.m. on Old Witless Bay Line. Participants are encouraged to wear their sunscreen, sun hats, long sleeves and parasols.