Event Recap: Eyes on a Cure – Ocular Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposium 2025
Date: April 25-27, 2025
Location: InterContinental Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio
Overview
The 14th Annual Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) Eyes on a Cure: Ocular Melanoma Patient and Caregiver Symposium, in partnership with the Cleveland Clinic and Cole Eye Institute, brought together patients, caregivers, clinicians, researchers, and advocates to share knowledge, support, and advancements in the fight against ocular melanoma (OM). We want to thank our amazing sponsors for the weekend and to the Cole Eye Institute and Cleveland Clinic for their partnership.
The Eyes on a Cure: Ocular Melanoma Patient & Caregiver Symposium began on Friday, April 25, with an informal meet and greet, allowing attendees to connect before the official start of the event. Saturday featured welcome addresses from Kyleigh LiPira, CEO of MRF, and Dr. Arun Singh Cole Eye Institute, emphasizing the importance of community and collaboration in advancing OM research and patient care. The day began with a patient and caregiver panel facilitated by Miriam Kadosh, MRF’s Director of Education and Patient Engagement, which sparked thoughtful discussions on diagnosis, treatment, quality of life, and survivorship. Educational sessions covered a range of topics, including ocular surveillance, DNA testing, systemic surveillance, liver-directed therapy, immunotherapies, and targeted therapies. Lindsay Brown’s powerful keynote talk on the preciousness of time during lunch was particularly impactful, and attendees participated in art therapy sessions and breakout support groups based on diagnosis type.
On Sunday, April 27, the symposium continued with a breakfast tribute to those lost to OM in our community. Sunday’s educational sessions included discussions on promising treatments in clinical trials, and techniques for pathology diagnosis. The event concluded with an interactive Q&A panel, allowing attendees to engage directly with experts. Finally, the group headed to the Guardians baseball game to cap off the weekend for some fun! Overall, the symposium provided valuable educational resources, emotional support, and opportunities for attendees to connect and share experiences, making it a memorable and impactful event.
Testimonial From Ed Sandell
Ed Sandell, a symposium attendee, shared his heartfelt experience:
“The MRF Ocular Melanoma symposium was a first class event. From the expertise of all of the speakers, to the professionalism of the staff that put together this amazing event, it could not have been better. The symposium highlighted the efforts being done on clinical research trials to both treat and prevent this cancer. It was enlightening to hear the perspectives of doctors like Arun Singh, Lucy Kennedy, and John Suh. But all of the speakers brought a different perspective that educated all who attended. I was especially blown away by Lindsay Brown. I have heard many motivational speakers in my 41-year career in the automotive world. So I thought this might just be another one. However, when Lindsay revealed that she has OM, her words took on a greater meaning. Time is a precious gift. Silly me for being a bit smug!
I would like to thank MRF for putting on this event. I made new friends and improved my relationship with some of the folks I had already met. Looking forward to being a part of this first class organization.”
Conclusion
The symposium was a resounding success, fostering a sense of community and hope among attendees. The event highlighted significant advancements in OM research and treatment, provided valuable educational resources, and offered emotional support through various sessions and activities. The dedication of the MRF’s CURE OM Initiative, Cleveland Clinic, and Cole Eye Institute, along with the contributions of speakers, sponsors, and volunteers, made this event a memorable and impactful experience for all involved.
View All Event Session Recordings Here.