This year marks 19 years since my Dad, Darryl, lost his battle with Melanoma. He was diagnosed with stage IV in July of 1998 after finally agreeing to see a doctor when a bruise on his leg just wouldn’t go away. Relatively unknown at the time, no one could have imagined that such a minor check-up would turn out to be such an aggressive disease.

As a little girl, my dad was the light of my life.  Referred to as a "gentle giant", he was the epitome of kindess, determination, and had such a deep love for family.  I'll never forget all of the time I spent giggling with him, taking weekly trips to get slurpees, and listening to Genesis and Fleetwood Mac while playing air drums.  I'll always be his little girl, and I carry him with me each and every day.

In the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined. Melanoma only accounts for 1% of all skin care cases but is responsible for over 70% of skin-cancer fatalities. With more locations across the United States being created each year, Miles for Melanoma is one of the biggest organized events raising awareness for this specific disease and to help provide the funding needed in the hopes of finding a cure.

I invite you to join me in this 5k event to both celebrate my dad’s life as well as help give support and awareness to the Melanoma Research Foundation. I would love for each and every one to participate in the walk/run itself, but if it’s not possible to make the event, I ask that you please provide a small donation. Every bit helps in supporting the cause.

I look forward to seeing you all on race day and in helping me place our Mind over Melanoma!