Christopher, known as Chris, was a friend, son and brother of the best kind. He always had a hand out to support a friend or family member and a kind word to say to all. He lived a positive life and always looked at the “glass half full.”

Chris was compassionate and understanding, but very headstrong in his beliefs. He always battled for others. He was the welcoming smile to new students in school even as early as junior high. He forged friendships that are still in existence today, many years later. He loved his brother and sister with all his heart. When they were all adults, he made sure he spent as much time with his nieces and nephews, he was so proud of all of them!

When he was in his late 30s, he was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder called Ankylosing Spondylitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that mainly affects the spine, but can also affect other parts of the body like shoulders, hips, knees, neck and pelvis. If left untreated it causes spinal fusion and immobility. Unfortunately, it was not diagnosed early enough to stop the impact before some damage had occurred. His treatment was able to slow down the progression, but the disease did cause him many difficulties and pain. He fought back by trying to be fit and healthy as much as he could and strengthen muscles to help with the affected joints. While doing so, Chris became a full-time fitness coach with Beachbody corporation.

He always had companion dogs or cats and called them his fur babies. In fact, after his diagnosis is when he found Ben (possibly was a godsend knowing how much he’d need Ben). Ben quickly became his support and service dog, helping him with his daily struggles of balance, walking, and companionship in general.

When he was diagnosed with melanoma, it was represented by one small sore resembling an infected ant bite, later finding out it was stage four. He underwent surgery to remove the cancer and lymph nodes to stop the spread. It seemed to be successful at the time. Of course, Ben was at his side the whole way.

Treating melanoma cancer is difficult when one has an autoimmune disorder. Autoimmune disorder treatments must suppress the immune system to stop the progression of it. Cancer treatments must build up the immune system to fight cancer.

Mela-No-More Golf Tournament:

“April 16, 2018, I lost my first-born son Christopher. My husband, Bob and I watched as he fought this battle with melanoma for 26 months (about 2 years). We wanted to keep Chris’s name alive and didn’t want any other Mom or Dad and family to go through this.

After looking for ways and other dedicated organizations we found Melanoma Research Foundation.

But how can we raise funds?  Chris’s younger brother, Mark wrote and published a short story to give to family. It was Chris’s journey through this 26-month ordeal through the eyes of his service dog named Ben. “My Name is Ben” became the first fundraiser. With each donation to MRF, we mailed a copy of this booklet as a thank you.

As time passed, we wanted a bigger fundraiser, and Chris was a big golfer. The whole family consists of avid golfers, and that seemed to be the perfect fundraiser for us. Mela-No-More,18 Holes to Find a Cure was born. The first year netted just over $7,500. The second year netted over $11,600. Win/Win!

We dream of this tournament and its name raising funds for MRF all over the country at many different Golf Clubs. It’s so much fun to raise so much money and make a difference in melanoma research!

Chris was a true warrior and we as his family are continuing his fight. If our small contribution can make a difference, educate, spread awareness and help fund the new research we have accomplished what we set out to do. His name will continue to inspire others.” – Bob and Charlotte Merriam

Help Chris’s family and friends continue his legacy and support melanoma research!

[button link=”https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/MRFCommunity”] Donate Here[/button]

DENVER, CO (August 08, 2023) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) will host its 12th annual Denver Gala on Thursday, September 21 at Infinity Park Event Center. This year’s event will recognize the tremendous scientific and treatment advancements that have benefited the melanoma community, honor melanoma patients, thrivers, caregivers and clinicians and raise critical funds enabling the MRF to extend its critical mission. The gala welcomes the return of Emmy award-winning broadcaster, Denver7 Chief Meteorologist and melanoma advocate, Mike Nelson, as the gala emcee.

“The Denver Gala is one of the largest and most impactful events of the year,” said MRF CEO Kyleigh LiPira. “This incredible community of melanoma patients, survivors, supporters and health care heroes is a driving force in our work to increase melanoma education and awareness, advance new research and support the more than 1.3 million Americans currently living with melanoma.”

Gala attendees and donors will have a profound impact and create a legacy of hope for future generations affected by melanoma. Collectively, funds raised will support innovative research, patient support programs, educational outreach and advocacy efforts.

As a key component of the event, the MRF will present and honor Zeina Dajani, MD with the Excellence in Prevention Award for her dedication to melanoma prevention and quality care of her patients. The MRF will also celebrate Crystal Crowley, Mary Harty-Prather and Keith Woolley with Courage Awards for the bravery they exemplified in facing melanoma. Stacey Sepp will receive the inaugural Advocate Award in recognition of her work to as a powerful voice for the melanoma community at the state, local and national levels of government.

Gala attendees will celebrate the melanoma community through a seated dinner, an exciting auction featuring unique items and experiences including autographed memorabilia from the reigning NBA Champion Denver Nuggets, special presentations and an exciting Fund-a-Grant that will help enable the next groundbreaking treatment.

The MRF thanks the dedicated gala co-chairs including Imran Choudhry, MD and Ryan M. Weight, DO, MS as well as the host committee, financial sponsors and in-kind sponsors and supporters who collectively contribute to the development of this 12^th annual Denver Gala.

To purchase a ticket or sponsorship, visit here.

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 in finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma, the MRF also educates patients and physicians about prevention, diagnosis, and the treatment of melanoma and the melanoma rare subtypes. The MRF is a committed advocate for the melanoma community, helping to raise awareness of this disease and the need for a cure. The MRF’s website (www.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com) is the premier source for melanoma information seekers. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.

Media Contact

James Merrick

Chief Communications and Marketing Officer

jmerrick@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com

NEW YORK, NY (August 02, 2023) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) will host its 22nd annual New York City Gala on Thursday, October 26 at The Plaza Hotel. This year’s event will recognize the tremendous scientific and treatment advancements that have benefited the melanoma community, honor melanoma patients, thrivers, caregivers and clinicians and raise critical funds enabling the MRF to extend its critical mission. The gala welcomes Emmy award-winning host, producer, New York Times best-selling author, melanoma survivor and advocate, Andy Cohen, as headliner for the third consecutive year.  

“It is an honor to be a part of an unforgettable evening celebrating melanoma patients, caregivers and clinicians while honoring the tremendous achievements made across the melanoma community,” said Andy Cohen. “As a melanoma survivor, I am aware of the critical need to support continued research to foster effective clinical trials and treatments that will one day help eradicate melanoma!”  

With a goal of raising over $1 million, gala attendees and donors will have a profound impact and create a legacy of hope for future generations affected by melanoma. Collectively, funds raised will support innovative research, patient support programs, educational outreach and advocacy efforts.  

As a key component of the event, the MRF will present and honor Udai S. Kammula, MD, FACS with the Humanitarian Award for his commitment to fighting melanoma through exemplary patient care and research efforts and dermatologist Samer Jaber, MD with the Excellence in Prevention Award for his dedication to melanoma prevention and quality care of his patients. The MRF will also celebrate two melanoma patients with Courage Awards for their bravery and willingness to share their story and inspire others to help prevent and spread awareness of cutaneous melanoma and the rare melanoma subtypes. TV personality, wellness coach, host of the top-rated podcast Two Ts in a Pod and 2023 #GetNaked Spokesperson, Teddi Mellencamp and mucosal melanoma survivor and advocate, Chris White, will both receive Courage Awards.  

Gala attendees will celebrate the melanoma community through a seated dinner, once-in-a-lifetime auction items and experiences, special presentations and an exciting Fund-a-Grant that will help enable the next groundbreaking treatment.  

The MRF thanks the dedicated co-chairs including Michelle Henry, MD, FAAD and host committee, financial sponsors and in-kind sponsors and supporters who collectively contribute to the development of this 22nd  annual NYC Gala.  

To purchase a ticket or sponsorship, visit here.  

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 in finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma, the MRF also educates patients and physicians about prevention, diagnosis, and the treatment of melanoma and the melanoma rare subtypes. The MRF is a committed advocate for the melanoma community, helping to raise awareness of this disease and the need for a cure. The MRF’s website (www.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com) is the premier source for melanoma information seekers. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.             

Media Contact 

James Merrick 

Chief Communications and Marketing Officer 

jmerrick@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com 

Guest blog post by Amy Wychulis Vallance, MRF supporter, team captain of Bob’s Bobbers and recipient of the 2023 Team Captain Excellence Award: 

This team was created to honor our superhero, my dad, Robert Wychulis. People knew him as Bob, “Flip” from his younger days, but mostly “Jojgee.” Jojgee is a Polish word for Grandfather and is spelled Dziadzi. My dad had a dziadzi and when he became a grandfather, naturally he became our “jojgee.”  

He was born in the small coal mining town of Shenandoah, PA. After attending Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, PA and serving in the U.S. Navy, he relocated to the Washington, DC area (Derwood, MD) to raise his family. He worked as an Investigator for the U.S. General Accountability Office and retired in 1995. He moved back to Pennsylvania in 2004 to a town outside of Shenandoah called Hazleton. 

There really aren’t enough words to describe what an amazing person he was. You have to use feelings when talking about him. When you were with him you felt ENLIGHTENED. He was so incredibly knowledgeable of subjects from politics, sports, fishing, the universe, religion. He was the smartest man I ever met. You were always learning when you were with him. You always felt SAFE with him. When he was with you, you knew he would do anything to protect you and keep you from harm. He also had the quick wits to talk his way out of any situation! You felt COMFORTABLE with him. He never took life too seriously; it really emerged from him. You could breathe a little easier with him around and you were ALWAYS laughing. He loved making people laugh, and boy, did we laugh. You felt CHALLENGED with him. He always had your brain working or was pushing you to do better. There was something about him that made you put in 110% effort. Everyone that met him liked him. He was able to talk to anyone and find a common ground. He could make a connection with anybody.  

My dad loved and cared for his family more than anything. He loved my mom through and through and had 54 years of marriage with her- the love of his life. He showed love every day through actions. And he had no greater joy than his grandchildren. He LOVED spending time with his family. When we weren’t together, there wasn’t a day that one of us didn’t talk to him on the phone. Jojgee also wrote letters to everyone. Not emails, not text messages – but LETTERS, and frequently! These letters are so special to us. You couldn’t make it through one without letting out a laugh. You still can’t. 

My dad took care of us every way he could – and he took care of himself. This man exercised every day. He loved jogging every day (on his lunch breaks when he worked), no matter the weather. He lifted weights, he stretched, he walked and he ate very healthy. He loved the outdoors and was always active. He kept current with physicals and health screenings and saw a dermatologist regularly. He never had a health scare, and he didn’t have to take ANY medication. He loved fishing, skiing and golfing; he was VERY athletic. He took an annual fishing trip to Canada every May, with my brother, for 30 years. He loved that time of year.  

It was at the end of 2017 and beginning of 2018 that he started having pain in his left shoulder and on his back. In the beginning, we thought it was arthritis, or pain from an injury (and surgery) he incurred skiing years ago. It was down in his shoulder blade where he had this pain. 

This is when we all wish we could go back and do something. He tried arthritis creams, massages, even acupuncture. Then he started dropping weight. In April 2018 he got up in the middle of the night and he passed out in the family room. My mom called the ambulance and he was taken to the hospital for a workup. The x-ray showed a mass on his lung. He also had some fluid built up at the bottom of his lung. The doctors were curious because he was not a smoker. They scheduled a bronchoscopy to go down into his lung and biopsy this mass. When they went in, his lungs were completely healthy and clear. They did a thoracentesis and drained the fluid from around the lung and sent that out for evaluation and testing. The fluid was clear. They then went straight in and got a biopsy from the mass that was sitting on the outside of his left lung, behind his shoulder blade. Melanoma. The PET scan showed that it had spread to other organs. Stage IV. The very thorough dermatologist could not find an original source anywhere.  

Shortly after that, he had a port placed and underwent immunotherapy treatments. My mom was the most amazing caregiver. He loved to sit in their side-by-side recliners and just hold hands watching TV. The follow up scans were not hopeful. They stopped immunotherapy by the end of 2018. He was put on steroids which helped his energy, but this gave us a false sense of hope. We had our last Christmas together that year and we will always cherish it. On January 31, 2019, he woke up and told my mom he wanted to take a shower, he didn’t want to eat and wanted to rest. She walked him to the bathroom to clean him up, get him dressed and he then rested in his bed. He was very weak, and this day was different than the rest. I talked to my sister, who was with him that day, around dinner time and she expressed that he was not well. Within a few hours I got the call that he took his last breaths in his bed, holding my mom’s hand and with my sister Karla at his side. I couldn’t believe it. He was just walking and talking that day. I look back and I’m thankful that his decline did not drag on.  

My dad’s passing was the hardest thing I have ever gone through. He was my world. So much of who I am and how I push myself to be better is because of him. I HAD to do something to honor him. I HAD to do something for all the incredible things he did for so many. This is when I looked into a foundation that focused on melanoma. I found the Melanoma Research Foundation’s Miles for Melanoma program and I thought this was perfect. He was an avid runner who promoted a healthy lifestyle. A 5K would be great, so I created the team. Coincidentally, he spent his career in Washington, DC and joined the Navy after high school. The fact that the race was at the Navy Yard in DC ON THE WATER – it was perfect.  

A month after my dad passed, I noticed a suspicious mole on my husband’s head, behind his left temple. He told me his dermatologist said it was okay. I knew better. I made him switch dermatologists and the new doctor biopsied it and we found out that it was melanoma! They did a surgery and found that the mole was much deeper than they thought; Stage II. We obtained an oncologist. He had to undergo a second surgery in which they removed part of his parotid gland and lymph nodes in his neck. Luckily, we caught this early! He has been monitored closely by his dermatologist and oncologist with lab work and x-rays. He has been cancer free since!  

Miles for Melanoma has become a staple for my family and me each year since my dad’s passing and my husband’s diagnosis. I do it for my dad. I do it for my husband. I do it for me. I do it for you. I do it for the ones to come and the ones currently battling. I have participated in many runs in the Washington, DC area. Miles for Melanoma is by far one of the best events. My goal is to continue raising funds each year and help grow this great event. Each year after the race we have a luncheon at my house to gather, relax, celebrate and remember my superhero. And each year I write a letter, not an email, or a text, but a letter to thank each person that supported our fundraising efforts.  

The generosity of community supporters like Amy Wychulis Vallance and Team Bob’s Bobbers make our work possible and drive new advances towards more effective treatments and, one day, a cure for melanoma. Please consider joining these efforts with a tax-deductible gift: 

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Cleveland, OH (July 19, 2023) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is thrilled to announce that Mark Nolan, broadcaster of the Majic WMJI 105.7, Cleveland’s greatest hits station, will be returning as the event emcee for the annual Cleveland Miles for Melanoma 5k program on Sunday, August 6, 2023, at Edgewater Park. Nolan will welcome guests to the Opening Ceremonies beginning at 8:30AM ET and kick off the 5K which starts at 9:00AM ET. 

Nolan started his broadcast career doing weather for WMJI, which led to filling in on air shifts on stations WGAR and WMJI, which then resulted in him officially joining the weekday Majic morning show Nolan, Malone and Kullik in 2014. A 1991 graduate of Kent State University, the downtown Cleveland resident also serves as weekday anchor for WOIO news. Mark’s presence on the air and his ability to create and convey discussions on numerous topics of interest strongly connects with listeners. 

The 5k walk/race will bring together the Cleveland-area melanoma community with a goal of raising $115,000 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 about rare melanoma subtypes. The Miles for Melanoma program also highlights the importance of sun safety and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks.  

The MRF team is thrilled to welcome a wide range of local presenting and national sponsors to the Cleveland event this August. National Sponsors include Neutrogena and Cabana Life. Local Presenting Sponsors include Case Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cleveland Clinic, Apex Skin and Angie Fowler Adolescent and Young Adult Cancer Institute, Bristol Myers Squibb, Castle Biosciences, Novartis, Meijer Pharmacy, MetroHealth, Parker, Kelman, Moses, Seifert & Hartstein, Michael C. Pophal Esq, North Star Advisory Group, Associates in Dermatology, Everything Beauty and OHG Design.  

All in-person and registered participants will receive a 2023 UPF 50+ race shirt provided by our NEW National Apparel Partner, Cabana Life. Register to attend the Cleveland Miles for Melanoma 5K event here by Thursday, August 3, 2023, at 11:59PM ET. 

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About the Melanoma Research Foundation 

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 rare melanoma 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.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. 

Media Contact 

Nicole Nishanian
Miles for Melanoma Development Officer
nnishanian@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com 

Chicago, IL (June 26, 2023) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is thrilled to announce that Emmy award-winning journalist, current anchor for WGN Midday News and melanoma survivor Dina Bair will be returning as the event emcee for the annual Miles for Melanoma Chicago 5k run/walk on Sunday, July 16, 2023, at Montrose Beach. Bair will welcome guests to the Opening Ceremonies beginning at 8:30AM CT and kick off the 5K which starts at 9:00AM CT.

The 5k walk/race will bring together the Chicago-area melanoma community with a goal of raising $90,000 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 about rare melanoma subtypes. The Miles for Melanoma program also highlights the importance of sun safety and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks.  

The MRF team is thrilled to welcome a wide range of local presenting and national sponsors to the Chicago event this July. Local sponsors include Bristol Myers Squibb, Pfizer, Walmart, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, Castle Biosciences, Chicago Cosmetic Surgery & Dermatology, the Illinois Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants and Pinnacle Dermatology, who will be providing onsite skin checks at the event. National sponsors include Neutrogena and Cabana Life.   

All in-person and registered participants will receive a 2023 UPF 50+ race shirt provided by our NEW National Apparel Partner, Cabana Life. Register to attend the Chicago Miles for Melanoma 5K event here by Thursday, July 13, 2023, at 11:59PM CT.

About the Melanoma Research Foundation 

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.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. 

Media Contact 

Nicole Nishanian 

Miles for Melanoma Development Officer 

NNishanian@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com

My name is Gail Terrell and at 57, I was diagnosed with Stage 3C metastatic melanoma of “unknown” origin. I am currently winning my battle as I am 30 months in remission.

I discovered my first tumor following a strenuous weightlifting workout. As I was leaving the gym, I was experiencing flank pain in the pelvis which I assumed was a hernia. I had an initial surgery with a tumor removal and a Stage 3B diagnosis, and I transitioned my care to Emory University/Winship Cancer Center where I was able to put together an exemplary oncology care team for a second surgery which removed a second tumor as well as 13 lymph nodes.

Metastatic melanoma is a cancer requiring a significant amount of both CAT scans and brain MRIs. I have completed 13 CAT scans and 6 brain MRIs and my course of care dictates a total of 20 CAT scans and 12 brain MRIs over a 60 month period. The scans are tough on me mentally as they always seem to be just around the corner, so I must remind myself that the scans are a necessary part of staying proactive. In addition to seeing my oncologist every three months, I have regular full-body skin checks by my dermatologist to monitor for any new or changing spots.

I took Tafinlar/Mekinist targeted therapy for 365 days and my advice for surviving the effects of the drug therapy was consuming a gallon of water each day as the drugs were very dehydrating. I experienced jaundice twice from the drug intake at which time I was at risk of having to stop the drug therapy. I went back to the basics of being a health nut my whole life, and I started incorporating drinking warm water with lemon first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to alkalize my system which successfully helped me to manage my liver enzymes while avoiding an interruption in my drug therapy.

My advice is to stay proactive all along the way, and to give yourself grace on tough days. I also learned that I was stronger than I knew as once I made the decision to get my feet out of what felt like quicksand and dig in to get my game on, I knew I could win and beat the odds I was given. In my case, my gym workouts helped to save my life as they tremendously helped me both emotionally and physically even if it was just me conditioning my brain that I was in fact taking some sort of control over my cancer…strong mind and strong body is my motto!

Finally, with over 26 years of my career working in the medical industry, I hope to share my determination, perseverance, and never give up attitude to help others battling cancer to provide the necessary encouragement and support to them to be able to get their winning game on too!

Ongoing research towards new, more effective treatments leads to positive outcomes and increased survivorship. Your support makes this progress possible; please consider a tax-deductible donation today: 

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Denver, CO (May 25, 2023) – 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, survivors, care partners and survivors. This year we will be hosting our Denver event on Saturday, June 10, 2023 at Sloan Lake Park at 7:30am MT. 

The 5k walk/race will bring together the Denver-area melanoma community with a goal of raising $75,000 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 rare melanoma subtypes. The Miles for Melanoma program also highlights the importance of sun safety and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks.

The MRF team is thrilled to welcome a wide range of local presenting and national sponsors to the Denver event this June. Local sponsors include Bristol Myers Squib, Pfizer, AboutSkin, CU Cancer Center, Clarity Dermatology, Elevation Dermatology, Novartis, SCL Health Now Intermountain Healthcare, TriSalus and Wallaroo Hat Company. National sponsors include Neutrogena and Cabana Life.

All in-person and registered participants will receive a 2023 UPF 50+ race shirt provided by our NEW National Apparel Partner, Cabana Life. Register to attend the Denver Miles for Melanoma 5K event here by Wednesday, June 7, 2023, at 11:59PM MT.

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About the Melanoma Research Foundation 

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.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. 

Media Contact 

Nicole Nishanian 

Miles for Melanoma Development Officer 

NNishanian@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SCOTTSDALE, AZ (MAY 18, 2023) – In honor of National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, EltaMD has partnered with Andy Cohen and the Melanoma Research Foundation on a social campaign aimed to ignite dialogue surrounding skin cancer, while educating consumers on the importance of skin checks. As the #1 dermatologist recommended sunscreen brand, EltaMD is committed to sun safety and skin protection for every body under the sun. As part of this initiative, and to encourage daily sunscreen use, EltaMD will be facilitating in-kind donations to the Melanoma Research Foundation up to a $100,000 value. 

“With over 5 million cases detected in the United States each year, more people are diagnosed with skin cancer than all other cancers combined. As a dermatologist, I appreciate EltaMD moving the benchmark on this mission by enlisting Andy to spread this imperative message in a viral fashion, eliciting conversation,” says Dr. Gohara, M.D. a board-certified dermatologist and associate clinical professor of dermatology at Yale University.

“Andy Cohen has been a vocal figure on the importance of sun safety due to his personal experience with melanoma, making him a natural fit for this partnership. His iconic photo in 1994 was the creative inspiration behind the campaign – we even engaged Spencer Tunick, the photographer behind the original shot. EltaMD will also be donating one bottle of sunscreen to the Melanoma Research Foundation for every tag. We hope this encourages individuals to schedule a skin check with their dermatologist and wear sunscreen everyday from head to toe,” said Echo Sandburg, Chief Brand Officer, CP Skin Health Group.

Building increased awareness on protecting one’s skin is more than a corporate mission for EltaMD, it’s in the brand’s DNA. Skin cancer hits home for many, with one in five Americans diagnosed with skin cancer by the age of 70, including Joanna Zucker, CEO of CP Skin Health U.S, who recently underwent her own battle with melanoma. 

“By partnering with Andy Cohen and the Melanoma Research Foundation for Skin Cancer Awareness Month, EltaMD hopes this amplified conversation reaches new heights to push educational boundaries on the importance of daily sunscreen use,” said Joanna Zucker, CEO U.S. CP Skin Health. “While my skin cancer experience was frightening, it has allowed me to lead EltaMD from personal experience in the brand’s efforts to advocate for daily sunscreen use and regular skin checks with a dermatologist in the fight against skin cancer.”

To further ensure protection for every body, every day, EltaMD has unveiled their latest sunscreen launch focused on effortless yet elegant application, which is a mainstay of all EltaMD brand innovation. UV AOX Mist SPF 40, is a sheer-finish, 100% mineral spray made with 14% Zinc Oxide, as well as enriched with antioxidants to prevent premature aging and rejuvenate skin. UV AOX Mist also uses unique, air-powered technology to provide 360 sprayability at any angle. 

To support this initiative, check out Andy Cohen’s (@bravoandy) Instagram post and tag a friend in the comments to remind them to get a skin check with their dermatologist and wear sunscreen daily. EltaMD will donate one bottle of sunscreen to the Melanoma Research Foundation (@curemelanoma) up to $100,000 in value for every tag made through June 16th.

Press Contact

eltamd@mmlpr.com

About EltaMD® Skin Care

At EltaMD, we make professional sun and skin care trusted by Dermatologists and loved by skin. EltaMD isn’t just the #1 Dermatologist-recommended and trusted professional sunscreen brand in the US; it’s the brand they personally use more than any other brand. We’ve spent over 30 years developing safe and effective products for every skin type, condition and need, including products safe for sensitive skin. From our sunscreens that are designed to feel weightless and known for their transparent finish while providing reliable protection, to a skin care regimen that can help repair the skin barrier and procedure care products formulated to heal and strengthen skin after a treatment, there’s an EltaMD product your skin will love. For more information: www.eltamd.com. Find EltaMD on Instagram and TikTok.

About CP Skin Health Group®

Starting in 2018, Colgate Palmolive acquired EltaMD® and PCA SKIN® brands, and in 2019 the Filorga® brand to build a world-class global skin health organization of premium brands that are scientifically proven and professionally endorsed. Our vision is to lead the prestige skincare industry with scientifically proven advanced skin health solutions which are recommended by professionals, recognized by the scientific community and chosen by consumers to transform the health and appearance of their skin. For more information visit www.cpskinhealth.com.

About Melanoma Research Foundation

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.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.

The 5k walk/race will bring together the Memphis-area 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 rare melanoma subtypes. The Miles for Melanoma program also highlights the importance of sun safety and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks. Returning Memphis Miles local presenting sponsor, Memphis Dermatology Clinic, will provide complimentary on-site skin checks to all registered participants on event day.

The MRF team is thrilled to welcome a wide range of local presenting and national sponsors to the Memphis event this June. Local sponsors include Memphis Dermatology Clinic, Regional One Health, University of Tennessee Health Science Center and Dermatology East. National sponsors include Neutrogena and Cabana Life.

All in-person and registered participants will receive a UPF 50+ race shirt provided by our NEW National Apparel Partner, Cabana Life. Register to attend the Memphis Miles for Melanoma 5K event here by Wednesday, May 31st at 11:59PM CT.

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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.melaresearcstg.wpengine.com. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.

Media Contact

Nicole Nishanian

Miles for Melanoma Development Officer

NNishanian@melaresearcstg.wpengine.com