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| | Committed to Advancing Melanoma Research Over the last several weeks, we have closely monitored the current Administration’s actions with respect to federal funding for imperative life-saving scientific research. Our melanoma community has benefited from federally funded research initiatives through the National Institutes for Health (NIH), National Cancer Institute (NCI), the Department of Defense’s Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (CDMRP) and other agencies that have enabled progress with new treatments, therapies and clinical trials for melanoma patients, including the rare melanoma subtypes.
In early March, we welcomed 50 passionate advocates to Washington, DC, to advocate for key federal melanoma policy priorities, like the complete funding of the CDMRP’s Melanoma Research Program (MRP) at $40 million for FY25 and FY26 and robust funding for other critical research agencies. Our patient, survivor and medical research community member advocates met with 51 congressional offices across 17 states to champion these critical issues. I encourage you to watch their inspiring stories about why being at Advocacy Days is so important to them.
Because of these advocates and the hundreds of others who mobilized to encourage their lawmakers to fully fund the MRP, we have made tremendous strides in maintaining funding for the CDMRP in FY25 and securing vital resources to expand hope for countless patients.
I sincerely thank our advocates for sharing your stories to pave the way for progress in melanoma research, prevention and treatment. There is still work to be done to ensure a future with a cure for melanoma, and we will continue to always advocate for you, the melanoma community, as integral to our Foundation’s mission. I encourage all to sign up for the MRF’s advocate mobilization platform to stay informed of how YOU can engage with lawmakers, here. |
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| March Ask the Expert Recap
This Month’s Ask the Expert focused on the latest advancements in primary ocular melanoma treatment and clinical Trials. Dr. Arun Singh, Director of the Department of Ophthalmic Oncology at the Cole Eye Institute, Cleveland Clinic, discussed several promising treatments currently under investigation in clinical trials.
Click below to watch the full webinar to stay updated with the latest in OM care.
Together Against Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposia Series
We’re excited to kick off this year's Together Against Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposia Series next month! The first four educational events for the cutaneous melanoma population are proudly presented in collaboration with Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Mayo Clinic, The Ohio State University and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Designed to inform and empower those impacted by melanoma, each symposium offers the opportunity to hear from leading experts, connect with others and find meaningful support—whether you attend in person or virtually.
Join leading melanoma experts in a dynamic discussion on the latest LAG-3 inhibitors and their role in treating advanced cutaneous melanoma. Click the button to learn about the newest breakthroughs in immunotherapy and melanoma research in the Medscape expert dialogue.
Living with advanced melanoma can be challenging, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Stay informed, plan ahead and connect with a supportive community through Melanoma Path.
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| Eyes on a Cure + Zoom Information Meeting |
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Join us for the Eyes on a Cure: Ocular Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposium, happening April 26–27 in Cleveland, OH, in collaboration with the Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute.
This free, in-person event brings together leading experts, patients and caregivers for a weekend of OM education, connection and support. Learn about the latest in OM research and treatment, engage in interactive panels and build meaningful relationships within the OM community.
Have questions about Eyes on a Cure? Join our Zoom Information Meeting happening tonight, from 7:30–8:30 PM ET to get all the details about the event and what to expect. Click here to register.
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| | Key MRF Takeaways from the American Academy of Dermatology Conference |
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At the annual American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) conference, earlier this month, the MRF hosted its Dermatology Alliance Council (DAC) meeting, bringing together a geographically and sub-specialty diverse group of board-certified dermatologists to advise on the Foundation's core mission areas: research, education and advocacy, including initiatives focused on awareness, prevention and early detection. The DAC also plays an importance role in reviewing research grants and participating in federal prevention and research advocacy efforts.
A key focus of this meeting was the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in melanoma diagnosis, specifically its potential impact on the future of early detection. We were fortunate to hear from guest speakers Eugene Semenov, MD, MA, F.A.A.D from Massachusetts General Hospital and Maria L. Wei, MD, PhD, from Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center who shared valuable insights into the groundbreaking research their teams are conducting to integrate AI into clinical practice. Their individual work aims to enhance our ability to detect melanomas earlier, predict who may reoccur and ultimately improve patient outcomes through more timely and accurate diagnoses.
We are thankful to the DAC meeting sponsors: Bristol Myers Squibb, Neutrogena, Coolibar, EltaMD, Castle Biosciences, TiZo and DermaSensor.
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| Jason Chambers Headlines the New York Gala |
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We are thrilled to announce that Superyacht Captain, TV personality, Melanoma Patient and Advocate, Jason Chambers, will headline as the emcee for our 24th Annual New York Gala on October 30 at Cipriani Broadway. We invite you to join us for an evening of inspiration to make a lasting impact on the melanoma community! This inspirational evening honors the melanoma community, including courageous patients, caregivers and trailblazing clinicians, all while helping raise critical funds to drive melanoma research and treatment innovation. Join us for an unforgettable night and be part of the mission to find a cure. Click the button to purchase a ticket, sponsorship or to learn more.
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| | Purchase a Ticket Today for our 14th Annual Denver Gala |
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Join us for our 14th Annual Denver Gala on Thursday, September 18 at our exciting NEW venue, Asterisk. This gala is more than just a gathering, it is a moment of unity where we celebrate our mission and raise vital funds for melanoma research. Expect an evening filled with unforgettable experiences including a cocktail reception, live entertainment, open bar and a gourmet dinner. 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 this transformative event - mark your calendars and join us in making a real impact!
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| Miles for Melanoma: Celebrating 2024 & Kicking off 2025! |
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Thank you once again for an incredible 2024 Miles for Melanoma season! Across 17 cities, with 6,600 passionate participants and 379 teams, we raised over $1.2 million for the melanoma community. Thank you for making every step count!
Now, get ready—the 2025 season is coming fast! Registration is officially open for our first three events: Washington, DC (May 3), New England, MA (May 10) and Denver, CO (June 14)! If you're in these communities, don’t wait—register today to kickstart your team recruitment and fundraising! More events will open soon, so visit our Miles for Melanoma homepage to find a run/walk near you and make a difference. Let’s keep moving toward a cure!
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| | Plan Ahead: Maximize Your 2025 Tax Savings While Supporting Melanoma Research |
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Tax Day is April 15th! As you finalize your 2024 returns, now is the perfect time to plan ahead for 2025. We are here to help you make tax-savvy financial decisions that not only support our mission but also benefit you. Did you know that donating non-cash assets—such as an IRA contribution, DAF grant or gift of stock or crypto—can provide significant tax advantages while making an immediate impact? These strategic gifts can strengthen the MRF’s mission and help you maximize your savings for the future. Take control of your financial planning today and turn your generosity into smart tax savings for tomorrow!
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| SPOTlighting Jam for Cam and Our Upcoming CommUNITY Fundraisers |
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This past weekend, the MRF had the privilege of attending Jam for Cam, one of our incredible CommUNITY Fundraisers! With over 10,000 attendees, this event was a tremendous success—raising crucial funds for the MRF while spreading awareness about melanoma prevention, education and advocacy.
Curious about the story behind Jam for Cam? Learn more about its origins, the powerful impact it has made and why its organizers have not only chosen to support the MRF but have remained dedicated donors for over 7 years.
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Looking ahead, we have three more amazing Community Fundraisers coming up in May:
- May 3: Mela-No-More Golf Tournament | Leesburg, FL
- May 10: Stay Out Of The Sun Run | Rochester, MN
- May 17: Melanoma Clinic Walk | Orlando, FL
Want to join us or support the cause? Click here to attend or make a donation to the event!
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| | Pediatric Melanoma Family Weekend at Camp Boggy Creek |
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Last month, the MRF hosted a Pediatric Melanoma Family Weekend at Camp Boggy Creek in Eustis, FL bringing together families affected by this rare disease for a meaningful getaway. The MRF sponsored pediatric melanoma families, giving them the opportunity to enjoy activities like archery, boating, golfing and spending time with therapy dogs. Our team connected with each family and shared resources to help them navigate their journeys. The time spent at Camp Boggy Creek reinforced the importance of creating spaces where families can find community support. We left inspired and more committed than ever to ensure that no child faces this diagnosis alone.
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