Sussex County, Del. (June 13, 2026) – The Sussex County Lifesaving Association (SCLA) successfully hosted its second annual Skin Cancer Screening and Social Event on Tuesday, June 9, bringing together nearly 100 lifeguards for an evening focused on health, prevention, and camaraderie.

Held at the Big Chill Beach Club, the event provided Sussex County beach lifeguards with free skin cancer screenings conducted by medical specialists from Coastal Care Dermatology. The dermatology team generously donated their time and expertise to examine lifeguards for skin cancer and identify areas of concern that could potentially develop into cancer in the future.

For the second consecutive year, the Big Chill Beach Club donated its venue space to support the event.

“We are more than happy to help out with such a good cause,” said Big Chill Beach Club representative Emily Burns.

While lifeguards waited for their screenings, they enjoyed music provided by DJ Hook and had the opportunity to socialize with fellow guards from beaches throughout Sussex County.

A total of 95 lifeguards participated in the screenings. While organizers view the turnout as a success, it represents just over 17 percent of the nearly 550 lifeguards who make up the SCLA.

SCLA Delegate Derek Shockro said organizers are already looking ahead to expanding the event.

“Moving forward, we hope to find additional sponsorship in order to entice more lifeguards to attend,” Shockro said.

Given the amount of time lifeguards spend exposed to the sun throughout the summer, early detection and prevention remain critical priorities for the organization.

SCLA President Matt Farlow expressed gratitude to the many individuals and organizations that helped make the event possible.

“We can’t thank everyone enough who helped out with this event,” Farlow said. “Even if we prevent one lifeguard from developing cancer… that’s a win!”

The SCLA extends its sincere appreciation to Coastal Care Dermatology, the Big Chill Beach Club, DJ Hook, and all volunteers and participants who contributed to another successful year of promoting lifeguard health and wellness.

About the Sussex County Lifesaving Association

The Sussex County Lifesaving Association represents nearly 550 professional ocean lifeguards serving the beaches of Sussex County, Delaware. The organization promotes lifeguard training, professional development, water safety, and initiatives that support the health and well-being of its members.