Tennis Coach Diagnosed with Metastatic Melanoma After Unusual Reaction to a Single Beer
After just one glass of beer triggered abnormal reactions in his body, tennis coach Simon Bowler was admitted to hospital, where doctors discovered he was suffering from melanoma that had already spread to his brain.
Simon Bowler, 50, had been a healthy man with no underlying conditions, exercising regularly and maintaining an active lifestyle. Normally, he could finish a bottle of beer when socializing with friends. However, during a gathering in early 2025, he felt dizzy after only one glass. Soon after, a lump appeared on his neck, which was initially thought by doctors to be a benign cyst.
However, accompanying symptoms such as blurred vision at night and abnormal hair growth on his scalp raised Simon’s concerns. He returned for further check-ups and was referred for an ultrasound and biopsy. The results revealed the lump was melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer.
In February, Simon underwent surgery to remove the tumor in his neck, followed by a year-long course of immunotherapy to prevent recurrence. By June, however, the disease had metastasized to his brain. Symptoms such as blurred vision and loss of concentration at night reappeared, forcing him to undergo radiotherapy and continued immunotherapy.
Simon has currently paused treatment due to complications, while working with a team of specialists to decide on the next steps. According to statistics, half of patients with metastatic melanoma survive no longer than five years.
Simon Bowler was a healthy man who enjoyed exercising and traveling before his cancer diagnosis. Photo: Simon Bowler
Melanoma is caused by skin cell damage from UV and UVB rays from sunlight or tanning beds. The disease is increasingly affecting younger people. Research in the United States has found that melanoma is among the top five fastest-growing cancers in those under 50, along with cervical, stomach, bone, and plasma cell cancers. In the UK, cases among 25–49-year-olds have increased by 7% in the past decade.
A common misconception is that melanoma only affects the face, arms, and legs. In reality, it can also develop on the scalp, under fingernails, on the palms, soles of the feet, and even inside the mouth.
Experts recommend applying high-SPF sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outdoors, avoiding strong sunlight, and protecting young children with clothing and shade.
In May, Simon launched a GoFundMe campaign, raising nearly £7,000 to start a tennis accessories business. He plans to donate part of the profits to charities including Macmillan Cancer Support, the NHS, and mental health organizations.
“It’s okay to cry. It’s okay to admit you’re not okay. I’ve lost a lot, but I haven’t lost my will to live. I want to come back, to support young athletes and show them what true resilience really means,” Simon said.
(Source: Daily Mail)
