The Melanoma Research Foundation Launches its Inaugural Orange County 5K Fundraiser with a Goal of $35,000 in Support of Melanoma Research, Education and Advocacy
Orange County, CA (February 13, 2026) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is thrilled to announce the next event in its annual Miles for Melanoma nationwide 5K program, bringing together local melanoma patients, supporters, care partners and thrivers. The Orange County Miles for Melanoma 5K will take place on Sunday, February 22 at Great Park. Event-day festivities will begin at 7:00 AM PT, with Opening Ceremonies at 7:45 AM PT and the 5K kicking off promptly at 8:00 AM PT.
We are thrilled to announce that Newport Dermatology & Laser Associates will be hosting on-site and complimentary skin screenings on event day! Early detection is especially critical for melanoma, one of the most dangerous forms of skin cancer, as routine screenings can help identify suspicious moles or changes early—when treatment is most effective and outcomes are significantly improved.
The 5K walk/run will bring together the Orange County melanoma community with a goal of raising $35,000 in support of critical melanoma research.
In addition to raising essential funds to support melanoma research, this event helps elevate public awareness around early detection and prevention of cutaneous melanoma and educate the public about the rare melanoma subtypes including pediatric melanoma, ocular melanoma, mucosal melanoma and acral lentiginous melanoma. The Miles for Melanoma program also highlights the importance of sun safety and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks.
The MRF welcomes our national sponsors to the Orange County event this February. Our National Prevention Partner is Neutrogena and our National Apparel Partner is Coolibar.
All in-person and registered participants will receive our Miles for Melanoma UPF50+ Coolibar shirt. To register for this year’s event, click here. Online regular rate registration will close on Thursday, February 19 at 11:59 pm PT but on-site registration will be available on event day.
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About the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF)
The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is the largest independent organization devoted to melanoma. Committed to the support of medical research to develop effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma, the MRF also educates patients and physicians about the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous melanoma and the melanoma rare subtypes. The MRF is a dedicated advocate for the melanoma community, helping to raise awareness of this disease and the need for a cure.
The MRF’s website is the premier source for melanoma information seekers. More information is available at www.melanoma.org. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
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Virginia Snider
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