Family Establishes Legacy Gift to Advance Research

Written by MRF supporter, Sally Landenberger:

Unfortunately, I became involved in the melanoma community through my son, Aaron’s, diagnosis and disease. It was not my choice, and I would be happy if it was no other mother’s, wife’s, children’s or family’s story.

My son was smart, talented, young, active (a runner), and an officer in the Air Force. He was a wonderful husband, father, friend and community supporter. He was diagnosed with melanoma after having a check of a discolored spot on his back. I can remember when he called me to tell me. At the time, I knew NOTHING about melanoma. I reassured him it would be alright. I am grateful he was serving the military in collaboration with NASA in Houston, TX, where he went to MD Anderson for consultation, analysis and treatment.

Aaron’s treatments included medications, radiation, chemo and surgeries, all of which took their toll on him physically. I was able to be with him through all of these. His disease progressed slowly and each time he got a new treatment I hoped it was a cure. He had a positive attitude, believed in God, enjoyed life and always had a smile on his face. There was no cure for Aaron; he died of melanoma after 5 years.

My donations to the Melanoma Research Foundation are the least I can do to remember his fight and try to prevent another family from suffering our tragedy. May the researchers who receive our donations develop the cure I was so sure was there to help Aaron.

Funding melanoma research is an impactful way to honor or remember a loved one, while benefiting the entire melanoma community. If you are interested in supporting a research grant in honor of a loved one, please contact [email protected].