Sussex County Lifeguards Receive Free Skin Cancer Screenings at Second Annual SCLA Event

SUSSEX COUNTY, Del. — Nearly 100 Sussex County beach lifeguards participated in free skin cancer screenings during the Sussex County Lifesaving Association’s second annual Skin Cancer Screening and Social Event on June 9.

The event, held at the Big Chill Beach Club, brought together 95 lifeguards for an evening focused on health, prevention and professional camaraderie. Medical specialists from Coastal Care Dermatology donated their time to conduct skin cancer screenings and identify areas of concern that could potentially develop into cancer in the future.

For the second consecutive year, the Big Chill Beach Club donated its venue space to support the event.

“We are more than happy to help out with such a good cause,” said Big Chill Beach Club representative Emily Burns.

While waiting for screenings, lifeguards enjoyed music from DJ Hook and connected with fellow guards representing beaches across Sussex County.

Organizers said the 95 participants represented just over 17% of the nearly 550 lifeguards who are members of the Sussex County Lifesaving Association.

SCLA Delegate Derek Shockro said organizers hope to expand participation in future years.

“Moving forward, we hope to find additional sponsorship in order to entice more lifeguards to attend,” Shockro said.

Association leaders emphasized the importance of skin cancer prevention and early detection, noting that lifeguards spend extended periods exposed to the sun during the summer season.

SCLA President Matt Farlow thanked the many organizations and individuals who contributed to the event’s success.

“We can’t thank everyone enough who helped out with this event,” Farlow said. “Even if we prevent one lifeguard from developing cancer … that’s a win!”

The Sussex County Lifesaving Association extended its appreciation to Coastal Care Dermatology, the Big Chill Beach Club, DJ Hook, volunteers and participants for supporting the annual wellness initiative.

The Sussex County Lifesaving Association represents nearly 550 professional ocean lifeguards serving beaches throughout Sussex County and promotes lifeguard training, water safety, professional development and member wellness.