Rhys Russell’s early melanoma symptoms went unnoticed due to their subtle, painless nature — a small red patch hidden beneath his hair. Diagnosed late in November 2021, the cancer metastasized to critical organs despite aggressive treatment.
His father explains the common misconception that melanoma only impacts older or sun-damaged skin, pointing to genetics as another cause.
Rhys endured extreme pain and severe physical effects but found emotional strength through a special video call from his football hero.
His family’s ongoing campaign seeks to promote melanoma awareness among young people and fulfill Rhys’ personal wish to be memorialized at the Etihad Stadium.
