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| | State of Support for the Research & Science CommunityThe MRF is aware of the many questions and concerns surrounding this Administration’s position on federal funding for scientific research. We remain steadfast in our unwavering commitment to support the melanoma scientific and patient communities.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding this Administrations position on federal dollars for scientific research, the MRF is adamant in its support for funding research that will ultimately lead to scientific breakthroughs. Now more than ever, we rely on you – the patient and caregiver community – to help fund and advocate for critical lifesaving research. To read the Foundation’s full statement, click here.
Kyleigh LiPira, MBA and Doug Brodman
MRF CEO and MRF Board Chair
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Next week, patients, caregivers and advocates will come together for Advocacy Days, a powerful opportunity to share their personal stories and advance key issues and priorities benefitting the melanoma community with lawmakers. Together, we will advocate for increased federal funding for melanoma research and improved access to treatment—ensuring that melanoma remains a national priority.
We thank this year’s Advocacy Days corporate sponsors for their steadfast support of this critical program: Bristol Myers Squibb, Iovance, Kenvue, Merck, Novartis and Pfizer.
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| Honoring Caregivers: Kristin Gendron’s Journey of Support, Advocacy and Giving Back
This month, we celebrated National Caregivers Day and recognized the dedication of caregivers who support their loved ones through every stage of melanoma. New England Miles for Melanoma participant and dedicated supporter, Kristin Gendron, shared her journey of caring for her mother during her battle with stage 4 melanoma—highlighting the power of family, advocacy and resilience.
“As a caregiver, I found it’s important to be encouraging and to show support! Caregivers should do whatever they can manage: emotional support, running errands, cooking meals, or finding an organization that funds research. My dad, siblings and I all took turns helping out, ensuring she wasn’t alone for doctor’s appointments or treatments.”
In addition to being a devoted caregiver, Kristin continues to make a difference by participating in our Miles for Melanoma 5K program and donating to support melanoma research and awareness. Her commitment reflects the incredible impact of those who not only care for loved ones but also give back to the community, helping to fuel progress in the fight against melanoma. Click here to read Kristin’s full story.
Explore our array of resources tailored specifically for caregivers on our Patient and Caregivers page below.
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| | Announcing our 2025 Medical Student Grantees! |
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We are proud to welcome 15 new Medical Student Research Grant awardees for 2025. These grants empower the next generation of melanoma researchers, providing critical funding and mentorship from leading experts in the field. Thanks to the generosity of our dedicated donors, this program continues to drive innovation and progress in melanoma research.
Tomorrow, we honor the rare melanoma subtypes on Rare Disease Day. We are proud to announce that this year we have awarded three medical student grants dedicated to advancing ocular melanoma (OM) research, more than ever before. This increase in funding reflects the growing interest and commitment to studying rarer melanoma subtypes, which are critical to better understanding and treating this disease.
As we continue to make strides in OM research, we are actively seeking additional support to fund these important projects. Your contributions play a vital role in propelling forward the next generation of groundbreaking research. Together, we can help ensure that all aspects of melanoma are studied, leading to more targeted and effective treatments for all patients.
To learn more about the three OM research grants, visit the funded researcher webpages for Jonathan Hwang, Haarisudhan Sureshkumar and Amanda Zucker.
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February Ask the Expert Recap
In our latest Ask the Expert webinar, Molly Vocino, MSW, LCSW, and melanoma caregiver Schalon Newton explore the emotional impact of caregiving, sharing personal experiences and valuable resources to support caregivers.
Watch the full webinar for expert insights and wellness strategies to help you navigate the caregiving journey.
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Register for Next Week's Ask the Expert: "What's New in Ocular Melanoma Treatment?"
Join us for an insightful webinar on March 6 at 7 PM ET, where we will be joined by Dr. Arun D. Singh to discuss the latest advancements in primary ocular melanoma treatment and clinical trials.
Whether you're a patient, caregiver or advocate, this is your chance to gain useful knowledge about ocular melanoma treatment and research.
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Upcoming Patient Symposia:
We are thrilled to announce the 2025 Together Against Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposia, presented in collaboration with Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, Ohio State University and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.
These free symposia events offer a unique opportunity to learn, share and connect with others navigating the melanoma journey. With both in-person and virtual options, patients and caregivers will gain valuable insights from leading experts while building a supportive community.
Don't miss out! Learn more about each event below.
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Eyes on a Cure
Join us for the Eyes on a Cure: Ocular Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposium, in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute, on April 26-27 in Cleveland, OH.
This free event brings together leading experts, patients and caregivers for a weekend of education, connection and support. Gain insights into the latest OM research and treatment, participate in interactive panels and build a stronger support network within the OM community.
Scholarship applications are open until March 28. For more information, please email cureom@melanoma.org.
Click below to learn more and register today!
Help Advance Ocular Melanoma Research - Join the VISION Registry!
The VISION Registry empowers OM patients by capturing real-world patient data to create a more complete picture of the disease. Your participation could help uncover new patterns, potential causes and treatment advancements in OM research.
Help us make a difference and sign up today!
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| Save the Date: Upcoming Galas! |
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Mark your calendars! Join us for the 14th Annual Denver Gala at our stunning NEW location, Asterisk, on Thursday, September 18, and the 24th Annual New York Gala at the iconic Cipriani Broadway on Thursday, October 30. These incredible evenings are more than just celebrations—they're powerful moments to unite in the fight against melanoma, raise critical funds for research and advocate for awareness, prevention and treatment. You’ll enjoy an unforgettable night featuring a cocktail reception, open bar, gourmet dinner and topped off with an inspiring award show! Don’t miss your chance to be part of these extraordinary events. Click below to learn more.
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| | Miles for Melanoma: Register Now & Kickstart the Fight! |
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The countdown has begun! Registration is NOW OPEN for our first 2 events in Washington, DC (May 3) and New England, MA (May 10)! If you’re part of these amazing communities, don’t wait – register today to start building your team and fundraising for a cause that matters! But that’s just the beginning! More event registrations are opening soon, so stay tuned! Visit our Miles for Melanoma homepage to locate a run/walk near you, save the dates and prepare to make a difference!
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| The MRF Welcomes Bonnie Teng, PhD as New Chief Scientific Officer |
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| We are thrilled to welcome Bonnie Teng, PhD as the new Chief Scientific Officer! Dr. Teng brings a wealth of expertise in cancer research and a deep commitment to advancing melanoma science. In this role, she will lead the MRF’s scientific initiatives, driving research funding, collaboration and innovation to improve outcomes for those impacted by melanoma.
Learn more about Dr. Teng's background and her new role below. |
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| | The Power of Your Generosity: Insights from Our Stewardship Report |
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As the leading independent organization dedicated to melanoma, we are able to drive meaningful progress thanks to the incredible generosity of our donors. Guided by the principles of responsible stewardship and continued progress, the Annual Stewardship Report highlights the remarkable achievements we've made together. Click below to explore the report and discover how your support is helping to propel the MRF's mission to eradicate melanoma.
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| Dermatology Advisory Council Meeting & AAD |
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The MRF will be attending the American Academy of Dermatology conference to host its bi-annual in-person Dermatology Advisory Council (DAC) meeting, aiming to foster collaboration within the dermatology community and strengthen efforts in melanoma prevention. The DAC plays a vital role in advancing our mission by providing expertise and guidance in research, education and advocacy. Their contributions drive key initiatives in awareness, prevention and early detection, including reviewing research grants and engaging in federal advocacy efforts to combat melanoma. We are thankful to our event sponsors: Bristol Myers Squibb, Neutrogena, Coolibar, EltaMD, Castle Biosciences, Tizo and DermaSensor.
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1420 K Street NW, 7th Floor Washington, DC 20005 | Tel: (202) 347-9675
Melanoma Research Foundation © 2025 All rights reserved.
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