Email - SPOTlighting Prevention & Early Detection During UV Safety Awareness Month

Melanoma Research Foundation

UV Safety Awareness Month & Community Skin Screenings

(On the Left) Kyleigh LiPira, MRF CEO pictured with Renata Block, Dermatological PA-C. (On the Right) Kyleigh LiPira, MRF CEO pictured with representatives from Kenvue.

July is UV Safety Awareness month and with an estimated 93% of cutaneous (skin) melanomas caused by radiation from the sun, we want to make sure you know how to help protect yourself and loved ones. While prevention is imperative, most of the damage from the sun (or tanning beds) happens when we are young and that is why early detection is so key.

UV damage accumulated during childhood and adolescence is strongly associated with an increased risk of skin cancer later in life. In fact, experiencing five or more blistering sunburns between ages 15 and 20 increases one’s melanoma risk by 80%. That is why it is so important to embrace sun safe practices and provide early education to children on protection and prevention.

As part of our commitment to early education, we are seeking volunteers to help support the creation and distribution of a new digitized e-learning curriculum intended to provide sun safety education to K-5th grade students. We are seeking those that have expertise or experience as a pediatric dermatologist, prevention public health expert, elementary school teacher, school nurse, school administrator, parents of elementary school aged children, medical student or the like. If you are interested or want more information, please email education@melanoma.org.

This month, the MRF also collaborated with Walgreens and Neutrogena to host SPF Fest - a free community skin screening in Chicago. What was startling was that over 76% of those who were screened had never had a skin check before and what was even more surprising was that over 82% have never seen a dermatologist. During the event, dedicated dermatologists, dermatological residents and dermatological physician assistants were able to identify 7 suspicious lesions that required follow-up. Many of the attendees came because they had spots they were concerned about, a family history of skin cancer or did not have access/could not afford the cost. In addition to this community event, we always prioritize providing free skin screenings at each of our 17 Miles for Melanoma 5K run/walks. To find an upcoming Miles event near you, click here.

During UV Safety Awareness Month and beyond, you can learn more about protecting your skin with our new Melanoma Patient Guide: Stage 0-1. Along with providing essential information on early-stage melanoma, the guide provides information on how to adopt preventive measures for long-term well-being. Download a free copy now from our Education Institute to help take charge of your life.

Kyleigh M. LiPira, MBA

CEO

Join Us for Two Remarkable Galas to Support Melanoma Research

Join us for two remarkable events: the 13th Annual Denver Gala on Thursday, September 19, and the 23rd Annual New York Gala on Thursday, October 24. These gatherings are more than just celebrations—they are a testament to our collective commitment to melanoma research. Indulge in an evening of exceptional experiences, including a cocktail reception, live entertainment, open bar, gourmet dinner and both silent and live auctions. The night will culminate in a moving awards ceremony, honoring those who are pioneering advancements in the fight against melanoma. Don't miss these transformative events—mark your calendars and join us in making a significant impact!

Purchase a Ticket or Sponsorship

Denver Gala Volunteer Highlight

Meet Adina Greene (top left), a fourth-year medical student at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. Adina's journey into dermatology and melanoma began in 2020 while working as a medical assistant, where she was inspired by patients' courage and the MRF's educational resources. Driven by a passion for melanoma prevention and research, Adina started volunteering with the Denver Gala in 2022 where she played a pivotal role in raising over $3,000 for the silent auction. This year, she expanded the outreach committee to ten medical student volunteers, surpassing last year’s donations. Join Adina in supporting melanoma research, education and advocacy! Click below to read her full story.

Read Full Story Here

Upcoming Events: Join us for a Miles for Melanoma 5K Near You!

Get ready to join us for our upcoming Miles for Melanoma 5K events! We’re thrilled to announce our next set of locations: Cleveland, OH (August 4), Twin Cities, MN (August 17), Philadelphia, PA (August 24), New York City, NY (September 14), Morristown, NJ (September 15), Seattle, WA (October 5), Los Angeles, CA (October 6) and San Diego, CA (October 20). Make sure to secure your spot early, form a team and take advantage of our fantastic fundraising incentives. Your participation makes a significant impact in the fight against melanoma. Don’t miss the chance – let's make a difference together!

Randei McTaggart from Team Anomaly Shares Her Inspiring Journey at the Denver Miles for Melanoma 5K

Randei McTaggart, a cutaneous melanoma survivor, shared her story at our Denver Miles for Melanoma 5K last month, highlighting her journey and gratitude. Diagnosed shortly after her niece's death, Randei went through multiple surgeries and treatments. Despite initial challenges, she achieved No Evidence of Disease (NED) for 2.5 years and recently completed her last treatment. She emphasized the importance of melanoma research, mentioning the advancements in treatment facilitated by the MRF. Randei expresses her gratitude for the support from Team Anomaly, her doctors and the MRF, dedicating her speech to all those affected by melanoma. Click below to read her full speech.

Read Full Speech

Education Round-Up

August Ask the Expert

Connect with us on August 8 at 7pm ET for a panel with melanoma experts Drs. Sanjay Bagaria, James Jakub and Leila Tolaymat with Mayo Clinic in Florida. They’ll discuss considerations for surgical treatment of melanoma as well as breakthrough treatments for advanced melanoma. Registration is encouraged. Click below to sign up.

Upcoming - Together Against Melanoma: Patient and Caregiver Symposium

Join us for the next installment of our Together Against Melanoma: Patient & Caregiver Symposium Series on Saturday, September 14 from 9:00am – 3:00pm ET at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. This hybrid educational event will have both in-person and virtual participation options, covering various topics related to cutaneous (skin) melanoma diagnosis, treatment and supportive care. Register today to learn from key leaders in the melanoma space, network with other melanoma patients and caregivers, engage with an interactive patient panel and more. Click below to learn more.

Learn More

Pediatric Melanoma Retreat Survey

We are gearing up for a special retreat in 2025 dedicated to supporting pediatric melanoma families. Please take a moment to complete a brief survey by clicking the below button as your insights and initial interest are crucial in planning this event.

Complete Survey

Stay Updated with the MRF

Text to Give Campaign

Make a real impact by joining our new texting program! Sign up now to receive updates on how you can support melanoma research directly from your phone. Stay informed about donation opportunities and ways to empower the melanoma community. Don’t wait—join our texting community today and start making a difference. Click below to sign up today!

Stay in the Know with the MRF's Advocacy Program

We encourage all in the melanoma community to stay up to date with federal and state advocacy initiatives regarding the melanoma community through our Advocate newsletter! Sign up today to get quarterly updates about our advocacy program and events.