Isle Of Wight MP Calls For New Law In Memory Of Zoe Panayi

Isle of Wight West MP Richard Quigley has led a debate in Parliament calling on the Government to back “Zoe’s Law” — a proposed change that could save lives through earlier skin cancer detection.

The campaign was inspired by the tragic story of Zoe Panayi, a 26-year-old mother from the Isle of Wight who died just 55 days after being diagnosed with melanoma.

Zoe had twice raised concerns about a mole on her back with her GP and was reassured it was nothing to worry about.

When she later had it removed privately for cosmetic reasons, the mole was not tested — standard practice at the time — and her cancer went undetected until it was too late.

Zoe’s Law would make histological testing mandatory for all moles or lesions removed, whether for medical or cosmetic reasons, to ensure early detection of melanoma and other skin cancers.

Speaking in Westminster, Mr Quigley paid tribute to Zoe’s “remarkable impact” on her community:

“Zoe was a devoted mum, a loyal friend, and someone who dedicated herself to caring for others.

"That’s what makes her story so heartbreaking — while she was training to care for others, her own health concerns were dismissed.”

He urged ministers to introduce a “Zoe Check” to ensure private clinics follow the same rigorous safety standards as the NHS.

Mr Quigley added:

“Zoe did everything right — she sought help and trusted the system — yet the safeguards that should have protected her did not.

"Zoe’s Law isn’t about blame; it’s about prevention. It’s a small step that could have a profound impact and save lives.”

The campaign has gained growing support from dermatologists, patient safety groups, and families affected by skin cancer.