A local woman's death from skin cancer is a reminder to people young and old of the importance of getting tested and protecting yourself from the sun, Local 4's Lila Lazarus reported.

Angela Guenther was a beautiful young woman with her whole life ahead of her until she was diagnosed with melanoma.

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The American Academy of Dermatology kicks off its National Skin Cancer Screening Program known as Melanoma Monday. Dermatologists will provide free skin cancer screenings in communities across the U.S. To find the nearest screening center, call (888) 462-DERM, or click here.
Interactive: Stay Safe In Sun

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"No one believes that anything will ever happen to them, and that they're invincible," Guenther said. "I thought that, too."

Guenther was just 23 years old when her mother, Mary Jo Sights, spotted a mole on her back.

Guenther had melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, Local 4 reported.

"I never, never thought it would happen to me," she said.

Despite surgery, radiation and long weeks in the hospital, she made it to her wedding.

Guenther dreamed of buying a house, having a baby, but never had the chance.

Last September, Guenther lost her life to melanoma.

It's been seven months, but for Sights, the pain of losing her daughter will last a lifetime.

Sights wants her daughter's death to serve as a reminder to everyone to protect him or herself from the sun.

"It can take off and if you don't catch it soon enough, it will kill you," Sights said.

Some common prevention tips are to wear hats and sun block when you're in the sun and examine your skin. If you have a mole, get tested.

"Don't think that it can't happen to you," Sights said. "You've got to watch your skin and take care of yourself."