Ross Weatherstone, the manager of Berkshire non-league club Binfield, has faced one of the toughest challenges of his life—battling melanoma skin cancer. Diagnosed in 2024, Ross underwent major surgery and has since been advocating for skin cancer awareness, particularly within the football community.

The Diagnosis

Ross's journey began when he noticed flaky skin on his leg during a routine check-up. What started as a minor concern quickly escalated when a full body check revealed melanoma. "The tone of the doctor's voice changed," Ross recalls. "She said, 'This one looks a little different,' and I knew something was wrong." Within weeks, Ross was diagnosed with an aggressive form of melanoma, but early detection saved his life.

The Impact on Family

Ross's diagnosis came just a year after he and his wife, Angela, welcomed their daughter, Amelie. The emotional toll was immense, especially when Ross couldn't be the active father he wanted to be during his recovery. "Seeing my daughter's face of disappointment when I couldn't play with her was one of the toughest challenges," he shares.

Football as a Sanctuary

Despite stepping away from his managerial duties at Binfield, football remained a crucial part of Ross's recovery. The support from his club and the football community was overwhelming. "The club stood by me," Ross says. "They could have moved me on for health reasons, but they didn’t. Football has been a welcome distraction."

Raising Awareness

Ross is now using his platform to raise awareness about skin cancer. He urges coaches and players to wear sunglasses and sunscreen, especially during outdoor activities. "Protecting your eyes and skin should not be frowned upon," he emphasizes. Ross's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection and the role of community support in overcoming health challenges.

A Special Moment at Wembley

One of the most emotional moments in Ross's journey was watching his brother, Simon Weatherstone, lift the Carabao Cup with Newcastle United at Wembley. "After everything I'd been through, to witness my brother’s success was incredibly special," Ross says. "It was a moment I’ll cherish forever."

Ross Weatherstone's story is a testament to resilience, the power of early detection, and the unyielding support of the football community.