A UK tennis coach has revealed an unusual early warning sign of melanoma that emerged months before his cancer diagnosis.
Simon Bowler, 50, referred to feeling tipsy after drinking just one glass of wine, despite normally consuming much more without effect.
Bowler first noticed this bizarre symptom in October 2023. "I can usually drink a bottle of wine and not feel anything," he explained.
The tennis coach also experienced a strange 'head fuzz' sensation and blurry vision alongside the unusual alcohol sensitivity.
The tennis coach noticed changes in his vision
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These symptoms preceded his devastating skin cancer diagnosis by several months.
A concerning lump in Bowler's neck was initially dismissed by doctors as a harmless cyst. However, the tennis coach decided to push for additional tests.
Days later, he received a devastating phone call from his doctor whilst driving to work.
"He asked if I was sitting down. I told him I was driving, and he asked me to pull over," said Bowler.
"I knew it was bad news. He said they suspected cancer." Further testing confirmed that what appeared to be a cyst was actually melanoma, a dangerous form of skin cancer that spreads more readily than other types if left untreated.
In February 2024, Bowler underwent surgery to remove the tumours and began immunotherapy treatment. However, nine months later, similar symptoms returned.
"To be honest, I didn't feel right in my head. I started having blurred vision again, and I couldn't switch off at night," he said.
Tests revealed the cancer had spread to his brain, requiring targeted radiotherapy treatment.
The treatment left Bowler severely debilitated with gastrointestinal symptoms and required hospitalisation. High-dose steroids caused nerve damage in his arms and legs.
"I felt numb, battered. It was like I'd been hit by a truck," he said.
"I've got wobbly legs now and a right hand that can barely grip a racket, let alone type."
Bowler has paused his treatment and is currently working with his oncology team to determine the next steps.
A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help him rebuild his life, with plans to donate a percentage of funds raised to charity.
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Melanoma is a type of cancer that develops from melanocytes
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Despite the physical limitations and challenges to his identity, Bowler remains determined to continue his work.
"I've been stripped of a lot of my identity, but I haven't lost my will to keep going," he said.
"I just want to get back to helping people, mentoring young players, and showing them what resilience looks like."
He also emphasised the importance of acknowledging mental health struggles, stating: "It's OK to cry. It's OK to admit you're not OK."
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