January 27, 2025
Lifting up patients through community engagement and research to unlock the cure to melanoma of all types.
Let’s get you started.
Advocate to Preserve Federal Melanoma Research Funding
Congress cut FY25 funding for the Department of Defense’s Melanoma Research Program (MRP) through the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) by 57%, jeopardizing the future of the research that impacts our active military service members. Thanks to strong advocacy, the MRP was preserved with a proposed $40 million appropriation — but its future in FY26 is far from secure.
Why the MRP Must Be Protected:
• Active-duty service members are 60% more likely to develop melanoma
• Military aviators face an 87% higher risk
• Without the CDMRP, lifesaving research across all cancers could come to a halt
Preserve this vital funding that will enable lifesaving research. The MRF will continue to advocate for melanoma research funding and finding ways to engage patients and caregivers with their lawmakers.
The MRF’s mission is to eradicate melanoma by accelerating medical research while educating and advocating for the melanoma community.
Why We Fight.
Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer.
8,290+
Melanoma claims the lives of over 8,290 Americans every year
25-30
Leading cause of cancer death in young women ages 25 – 30
90%
9 out of 10 cases are considered to be preventable
Our Impact
Funding Melanoma Research
27
Clinical Trials
132
Grants With New Collaborations
276
Published Articles
591
Webinars & Presentations
Events & Fundraisers
Jul 15, 2025 ET
Ask The Expert: Focusing on the Liver: Treatment Approaches in Metastatic Ocular Melanoma
Jul 22, 2025 ET
Ask The Expert: 2025 ASCO Highlights for the Uveal Melanoma Community
Updates from MRF
Blogs |
July 2025
#MRFResearchWednesday: Zachary Walsh, 2025 Medi…
“Leveraging T Cell Genetic Variants to Enhance Melanoma Immunotherapies” T cell immunotherapies, which harness the power of a patient’s own immune system to t…
2 Minute Read
Blogs |
June 2025
Christy Luth Andrisen, Longstanding Member of t…
“Dad loved spending time with his family. He cherished being together, from spontaneous dinner gatherings to afternoon visits, to holidays and birthday celebrations. He w…
4 Minute Read
Press Release
Miss Illinois Teen USA Emcees Chicago Miles for… Learn More
Blogs
Mika’s Story: Staying Postive and Proacti… Learn More
Blogs
2025 ASCO Annual Meeting: Uveal Melanoma Update… Learn More
Patient Resources
The MRF is committed to providing the most up-to-date education and support resources for melanoma patients and their loved ones.
Find a Treatment Center
Although the MRF cannot recommend a specific doctor, clinic or clinical trial, the Melanoma Treatment Center Finder and Clinical Trial Finder will help you find an experienced melanoma treatment team, as well as give you the opportunity to explore clinical trials. Did you know that clinical trials are often viewed as the best treatment option for Stage II, III and IV melanoma patients? Please remember to use this information as a starting point in your search for a healthcare team that best meets your needs. All information regarding your treatment should be discussed with your healthcare professional.
Shop & Support Our Mission
Grab some merch to support our mission to eradicate melanoma by accelerating medical research while educating and advocating for the melanoma community.
MRF Comfort Colors Shirts
$32.50
Available in Multiple Styles
MRF Classic Baseball Cap
$25.00
Available in One Style
MRF Zip Up Hoodie
$55.00
Available in Multiple Styles
