Melanoma Research Foundation
 
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Research Creates Hope and Hope Changes Everything

Pilot Research Grant Recipients

This month, we were pleased to announce the funding of two pilot research grants that were awarded to Lilit Karapetyan, MD, MS and Alexander Huang, MD. These research grants were funded through the MRF’s Breakthrough Consortium (MRFBC). The MRFBC is a national network of 23 centers of excellence in melanoma that collaborate to accelerate the research and development of the most promising therapies in melanoma treatment in order to deliver curative options to patients. Research grant opportunities are available to the participating sites and this year, two pilot proposals by the following translational scientists were selected for funding. These awards were made possible by the generous donation of the Brodman Charitable Fund and Friends. Read more here.

You can make a tax-deductible donation to support melanoma research advancements here.  

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Kyleigh M. LiPira, MBA

CEO


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MILES FOR MELANOMA TEAM CAPTAIN HIGHLIGHT

Andree Leonelli, DC Miles Team Captain, Shares Her Husband Joe's Inspiring Melanoma Journey 

Join us on Saturday, May 11, for the highly anticipated DC Miles for Melanoma 5K at Yards Park! Andree and Joe Leonelli have been an integral part of this event for nearly a decade, standing as steadfast supporters of the MRF. Prepare to be inspired by Joe's deeply personal melanoma journey, shedding light on why they continue to rally behind our cause. Discover the heartfelt reasons behind their unwavering commitment to participating in our DC 5K event and their decision to collaborate with and give back to the MRF. Joe's story is one of resilience, hope and dedication. Together, we are making strides towards a future free from melanoma. 

If you are interested in making a donation to their team, click here. If you are interested in making a general donation, click here.  


Sydney Mclaughlin Kicks Off Our Miles for Melanoma Season!

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We are only a few days away from the start of our Miles for Melanoma 5K event season! Check out this inspiring video from Neutrogena Ambassador, Sydney Mclaughlin, as she shares an important message reminding all to protect their skin with sunscreen and UPF clothing while encouraging all to lace up those sneakers and become a track star of your own at one of our upcoming races! This weekend be sure to join us in New England and Memphis, TN on Saturday, May 4! Registration is now open for upcoming events in Washington, DC (May 11), Denver, CO (June 8) and Chicago, IL (July 21). Don’t miss out on the opportunity to register early, kick-start your team recruitment efforts and unlock exciting fundraising incentives.  


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Informative Insight: A Roundup of Education Webinars and Events 

Together Against Melanoma: Patient and Caregiver Symposia Series 

Join us for our in-person and virtual cutaneous melanoma patient symposium in partnership with the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center on May 18, University of North Carolina Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center on May 20 and Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center of Georgetown University on June 8.

Register for the Upcoming Brain Metastases Educational Webinar

May is Brain Tumor Awareness Month and to highlight the importance of brain metastases, the MRF is partnering with the American Brain Tumor Association and AIM at Melanoma to raise awareness about the risks and impact of brain metastases. Register to join this free educational webinar titled, “How Metastatic Brain Tumors Affect Your Melanoma Care” on Thursday, May 9, 1pm to 2:30pm CTLearn more about Brain Tumor Awareness Month and this webinar here

April Ask the Expert Recap

On April 23, we had a discussion highlighting melanoma in the adolescent and young adult (AYA) population, featuring Dr. Kelly Nelson, Professor of Dermatology at MD Anderson Cancer Center and Jenn Routt, a young adult patient survivor and advocate. This webinar focused on the unique experiences of AYA melanoma patients, offering valuable insights into finding support and accessing resources. 

If you were unable to join the live webinar, or want to revisit the presentation, view the recording here


Florida Coverage for Skin Cancer Screenings Bill

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Last month, the Florida legislature unanimously passed CS/HB241 – Coverage for Skin Cancer Screenings- providing access to free annual skin cancer screenings for all Florida state employees covered by state group health insurance plans. With a target implementation date of July 1, this legislation was signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on April 5.

According to a recent Medscape article “From 2016-2020, Florida had a higher overall incidence of melanoma at 25.4 per 100,000 than the national average of 22.5…the state had some 7,500 cases of melanoma each year during that period.” While the MRF applauds the state of Florida’s commitment to early detection and prevention, we continue to advocate for this type of common-sense legislation for all citizens.  


Both Galas

Purchase a Ticket Today for an Upcoming Gala!

Join us for the 13th Annual Denver Gala on Thursday, September 19, and the 23rd Annual New York Gala on Thursday, October 24. These galas are more than just gatherings - they're moments of unity where we celebrate our mission and raise vital funds for melanoma research. Expect evenings filled with unforgettable experiences, including a cocktail reception, live entertainment, open bar, gourmet dinner and thrilling silent and live auctions. Cap it all off with an inspiring award show that honors those making a difference in the fight against melanoma! Don't miss out on these transformative events - mark your calendars and join us in making a real impact!


Welcome Giulia Newton

Giulia Newton

In April, the Board of Directors appointed Giulia Newton, Stage IV cutaneous melanoma survivor and longtime melanoma advocate, to the MRF Board. 

We thank the Board of Directors for their dedication to the melanoma community and helping to define the vision, mission and values of the MRF. 


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