Emily Robertson-Miller, a 29-year-old from Midwest Western Australia, tragically lost her life to melanoma, a severe form of skin cancer, after it spread to her brain. Her sudden illness occurred while she was at work last year, and just 30 hours later, she passed away.
In July, Emily was unaware that the melanoma, which had been removed from her shoulder in 2022, had returned and metastasized. Her partner, Ruby Blakeway, recounted how they initially suspected a stroke when Emily fell ill, leading to her urgent hospitalization. Unfortunately, her condition worsened, necessitating life support and surgery in Perth, where doctors discovered two significant tumors in her brain that caused irreversible damage.
Emily’s unexpected death left a profound impact on her family and friends, who gathered in Geraldton on Sunday to honor her memory through a melanoma march. The event not only commemorated Emily’s legacy but also aimed to raise awareness about the importance of health checks and recognizing the symptoms of skin cancer.
Ruby Blakeway shared that Emily had experienced headaches and mood changes prior to her illness, but these were often attributed to her history of severe migraines. “We never considered that the melanoma could have spread to her brain,” Blakeway noted, emphasizing the aggressive nature of the cancer that ultimately took Emily’s life.
Statistics from the Melanoma Institute indicate that melanoma is the most lethal skin cancer and is increasingly prevalent among individuals in their 20s and 30s. Australia holds the highest incidence rates globally, with one in every 18 Australians affected.
In memory of Emily, her friends and family raised substantial funds during the 15th Melanoma March, which has also been held in memory of another local victim, Jason O’Brien, who passed away from melanoma in 2021 at the age of 47. Blakeway expressed hope that the funds would contribute to research aimed at early detection of this aggressive cancer.
Blakeway also stressed the importance of sun safety and regular skin checks, regardless of one’s lifestyle choices. “Emily was a goth and didn’t spend much time in the sun, but it’s vital to be vigilant about skin health,” she stated.
Emily’s friend, Casey Clark, highlighted that while some individuals may find sunscreen uncomfortable, there are many options available that are lightweight and effective. “It’s essential to find a sunscreen that suits you, making it easier to use regularly,” Clark advised.
Emily was a dedicated mental health support worker and a strong advocate for the local LGBTQ+ community. Before her untimely passing, she had plans to launch a community food cupboard, enhance blood donation facilities, and establish a soup kitchen for those in need. “She had a vision for doing good in the community,” Clark remarked.
Blakeway acknowledged the difficulty of discussing their loss but found solace in taking action to honor Emily. “I believe she would be proud of what we are doing in her name,” she said.
