WIND LAKE, Wis. — When it comes to skin cancer, early detection is key. That’s the mission driving the Steeves’ family.

Dennis and Maureen Steeves lost their son Andy Steeves to melanoma 10 years ago. He was 24-years-old.  

Dennis and Maureen Steeves lost their son Andy Steeves to melanoma 10 years ago. He was 24-years-old. (Photo courtesy of the Steeves family)

It started when he was a sophomore at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. That's when Andy Steeves noticed a mole on his face that wouldn’t stop bleeding. 

“We had him go to a dermatologist,” said Maureen Steeves. “I still remember that day; I came home from work and he had gone there on his own and he said, 'Mom, it’s melanoma.”'

Andy Steeves had the mole removed and was in the clear for three years. Then it came back. The melanoma had spread to his brain and other parts of his body.

He underwent chemotherapy and radiation leading up to his passing five months later. The Steeves family said he developed an infected cyst on his spine, putting treatment to a halt. 

“We were told by the oncologist, once they stop the chemo and radiation, it would be two to three weeks that he would pass,” said Dennis Steeves. 

Dennis and Maureen Steeves said there were not a lot of options for Andy Steeves 10 years ago.

Dr. Amy Harker-Murray, a medical oncologist with Froedtert and the Medical College of Wisconsin said there have been advances in treatment for stage four melanoma. 

“Over a decade ago, we had the first-ever FDA approved treatment for melanoma that has improved all survival," said Harker-Murray. “Now, with modern treatments, we can get within anywhere between 15-20% of patients with stage four melanoma, including spots of melanoma in the brain, into remission. I have some patients that are more than five years out from their last treatment that don’t see me because they have no evidence of melanoma.” 

His parents said he had a life left to live. They said while Andy Steeves was growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball and was a great pitcher. (Photo courtesy of the Steeves family)

Andy Steeves' parents continue to advocate for early detection and the importance of wearing sunscreen and protective clothing. They don’t want any other families to experience loss like they have.

His parents said he had a life left to live. They said while Andy Steeves was growing up, he enjoyed playing baseball and was a great pitcher. He loved to play guitar and spend time with his family and friends. 

One of their last memories with their son was a wedding ceremony in their backyard between Andy Steeves and his girlfriend. A moment his parents said they will always remember, Andy Steeves was surrounded by everyone who loved him.

One of their last memories with their son was a wedding ceremony in their backyard between Andy Steeves and his girlfriend. A moment his parents said they will always remember, Andy Steeves was surrounded by everyone who loved him. (Photo courtesy of the Steeves family)

“He was happy that day and that’s all what mattered,” said Maureen Steeves. “It was a chance for all of his friends to come together and say goodbye to him because he wouldn’t be around much longer.” 

Andy Steeves is the honoree at the Steps Against Melanoma Walk on May 19 at the Milwaukee County Zoo. For more information, click here.