WASHINGTON, DC (May 1, 2026) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) is pleased to announce the launch of its annual award-winning #GetNaked campaign recognizing the melanoma patient community during Melanoma Awareness Month. In 2026, the MRF is joined by Superyacht Captain, star of Bravo’s Below Deck Down Under and melanoma advocate, Jason Chambers as its campaign spokesperson.  

“As an Australian native who has spent a lifetime on the water and in the sun, I was unfortunately naive to the lasting impacts of increased UV exposure and dangers associated with minimal sunscreen usage,” says Jason Chambers. “Following my dermatologist’s life-changing melanoma diagnosis in December 2024, I immediately began a successful treatment plan and have dedicated my time since to educating all about the importance of sun safety and regular skin checks because early detection can truly save lives. It is my honor to join the MRF as its 2026 #GetNaked campaign spokesperson to help elevate melanoma awareness and prevention.”  

Melanoma is less common than other skin cancers, but it is far more aggressive if not caught early. This year, an estimated 8,510 lives will be lost to this devastating disease in the United States. However, over 90% of melanomas are linked directly to increased UV exposure overtime and are therefore considered preventable and highly treatable in its earliest stages. Following simple sun-safe behaviors can help prevent melanoma, such as the daily application of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, use of UPF protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours, avoiding indoor tanning entirely, performing regular monthly self-skin examinations and scheduling annual dermatological skin checks. 

The #GetNaked campaign urges everyone to perform monthly self-skin examinations following the ABCDEs of melanoma and to schedule an annual skin check with a board-certified dermatologist. Practicing regular sun-safe behaviors is also pivotal to melanoma prevention. Throughout the campaign, the MRF showcases dynamic and bold images and shares powerful stories from real melanoma patients. The MRF also hosts several free educational opportunities for melanoma patients and caregivers and provides educational resources at no cost for the general public. More information can be accessed at www.melanoma.org.  

Central to the #GetNaked campaign, the MRF launches a prominent billboard featuring Jason Chambers displayed in Times Square, NY located at 1500 Broadway from May 1 – July 31. The MRF extends its gratitude to EltaMD as a sponsor of the #GetNaked campaign and Times Square billboard.    

EltaMD, the #1 dermatologist-recommended professional sunscreen brand, is expanding its support for Melanoma Awareness Month beyond the May #GetNaked sponsorship. They are introducing a limited-edition UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40. This initiative highlights EltaMD’s commitment to prevention and broader access to sun protection. For every unit of the limited-edition UV Daily Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 sold, EltaMD will donate one (1) unit of sunscreen to the MRF, up to a maximum number of units, to support skin cancer awareness and prevention. This limited-edition sunscreen will be available on EltaMD.com and through authorized partners.  

“At EltaMD, we believe sun protection is one of the most powerful, everyday actions you can take for your skin health,” said Echo Sandburg, Chief Brand Officer at Colgate-Palmolive Skin Health Group. “We are proud to support the Melanoma Research Foundation’s #GetNaked campaign and are building on that commitment with a limited-edition sunscreen allowing us to give back in a truly meaningful and impactful way.”  

You can learn more about the #GetNaked campaign and related activities by visiting www.melanoma.org/GetNaked. The MRF thanks its campaign sponsors and cause marketing partners including: Aura Biosciences, Bristol Myers Squibb, Castle Biosciences, EltaMD, Kerotin, Merck, Neutrogena and BloqUV, Cabana Life, Coolibar, Panama Jack, Rosabella Winery, TiZO, Wallaroo Hat Company and Kerotin. 

To support critical melanoma research in finding effective treatments and a cure for melanoma, donate here.  

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.melanoma.org. Find the MRF on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok. 

About EltaMD 

Founded in 1882, EltaMD began with healing formulas designed for the most sensitive, compromised skin – becoming a trusted staple in hospitals and burn centers worldwide. This clinical heritage established the brand as a global authority in wound healing and inspired its focus on innovative, zinc oxide–based formulas that deliver high-level UV protection while supporting skin repair. 

Today, EltaMD is the #1 professional sunscreen brand – recommended, trusted, and personally used by dermatologists more than any other professional sunscreen. With dermatologists at the center of its mission, EltaMD bridges clinical expertise and everyday skin needs through personalized protection, treatment, and care. Its lightweight, non-greasy formulas blend seamlessly across skin tones, combining advanced science with elegant wear to not only protect skin from UVA/UVB damage, but help restore and transform it – so everyone can step into the sun, and into life, with confidence. 

Media Contact  

James Merrick, MPA  

Chief Communications and Marketing Officer  

JMerrick@melanoma.org 

Participants will also have access to complimentary skin screenings from local sponsor AP Derm, offering an important opportunity to prioritize skin health. Early detection remains one of the most effective tools in combating melanoma, as identifying changes early can lead to better outcomes and more successful treatment. 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the New England melanoma community with a goal of raising $150,000 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 proud to welcome an incredible group of partners supporting this year’s New England Miles for Melanoma 5K. Leading the way as our Local Presenting Sponsor is Replimune. We’re also grateful for the support of our local sponsors, including AP Derm, Aura Biosciences, Delcath Systems Inc, Glowbar and Obsidian Therapeutics. On a national level, we’re honored to have Pfizer as our National Hope Sponsor, Bristol Myers Squibb and Natera as our National Grassroots Sponsors and Castle Biosciences as our National Courage Sponsor. We’re also thankful for Neutrogena, our National Prevention Partner, and Cabana Life, our National Apparel Partner. 

All in-person and registered participants will receive our Miles for Melanoma UPF50+ Cabana Life shirt. To register for this year’s event, visit 2026 New England Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Wednesday, May 13 at 11:59 pm ET.  

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

Vsnider@melanoma.org  

The 5K walk/run will bring together the DC 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 DC event this May. Our local sponsors include Capital Laser & Skin Care, Dermestetics, Glowbar, La Roche Posay, Merck and Pfizer. Our National Courage Sponsor is Castle Biosciences, our National Prevention Partner is Neutrogena and our National Apparel Partner is Cabana Life. 

All in-person and registered participants will receive our Miles for Melanoma UPF50+ Cabana Life shirt. To register for this year’s event, visit 2026 DC Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Wednesday, May 6 at 11:59 pm ET.  

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

Vsnider@melanoma.org  

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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org 

We are excited to share that Dayanara Torres, melanoma thriver, Former Miss Universe, actress, TV/radio host and the MRF’s 2020 #GetNaked Spokesperson, will serve as the event’s emcee! In early 2019, Dayanara was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma and used her platform to educate millions about skin cancer awareness during treatment. Her efforts sparked a documented increase in Hispanic patients seeking dermatological screenings and we are honored to have her join us in continuing to raise awareness and save lives. 

We’re also thrilled to welcome our National Apparel Partner, Coolibar, to the Miami event. Coolibar provided this season’s limited-edition UPF 50+ long-sleeve race shirt and shares our commitment to skin cancer prevention. Coolibar’s mission is to help outdoor enthusiasts and athletes protect their skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer through innovative sun-protective apparel. 

In that same spirit of prevention and early detection, we’re proud to offer complimentary on-site skin screenings on event day, making it easier for participants to take an important step in protecting their skin health. 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the Miami melanoma community with a goal of raising $43,000 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 a wide range of new and returning local and national sponsors to the Miami event this February. Our Local Sponsors include BloqUV, Derm360, DermCare Management, Fit2Run and One Change. 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 5 at 11:59 pm ET 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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the Fort Myers melanoma community with a goal of raising $45,000 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 new and returning local and national sponsors to the Fort Myers event this December. Our Local Sponsors include Dermatology Solutions, Dermpath Diagnostics, Medrock Pharmacy and Moffitt Cancer Center. 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, visit 2025 Fort Myers Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Wednesday, December 10 at 11:59 pm ET. 

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the Tampa Bay melanoma community with a goal of raising $30,000 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 and national sponsors to the Tampa Bay event this December. Our Local Sponsors include Advanced Dermatology, Bristol Myers Squibb, Moffitt Cancer Center and OB’s Best Fresh Veg. 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. To register for this year’s event, visit 2025 Tampa Bay Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Wednesday, December 3 at 11:59 pm ET. 

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org 

Washington, DC (October 23, 2025) – The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), the largest independent organization devoted to eradicating melanoma, is proud to announce the upcoming DC Wings of Hope Reception, a special evening dedicated to community, inspiration and action in the fight against melanoma. The event brings together melanoma survivors, advocates, medical professionals and supporters for a night that celebrates resilience and raises funds to support the MRF’s critical mission. The event will take place on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at DC Prime, 20120 Lakeview Center Plaza, Ashburn, VA 20147. Doors open at 4:30 PM, with the program running from 5:00 to 6:30 PM.  

The evening will highlight the importance of cancer research and the role that clinical trials play in advancing treatment options for patients and feature an inspiring book reading by Cheryl Stratos, a Stage IV melanoma survivor, author and long-time advocate for the melanoma community. Attendees will be encouraged to connect with others passionate about making a difference and take part in opportunities to directly support melanoma research. 

Cheryl Stratos, author of Terminal Hope: How a Clinical Trial Saved My Life, has dedicated her life to advancing awareness and access to care for melanoma patients. Her personal journey from diagnosis to survivorship serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of research. In addition to her writing, Cheryl served on the MRF’s Board of Directors from 2013 to 2023 and continues her advocacy through FightingMelanoma.com, where she connects with and supports patients worldwide. She now serves as Patient Ambassador for the National Foundation for Cancer Research and Chief Patient Navigator for 1104 Health, helping break down barriers to clinical trial participation. 

During the reception, Cheryl will share excerpts from her memoir, offering guests an intimate glimpse into her journey and the hope that research can bring to patients and their families. The evening will also feature a Fund-a-Grant paddle raise, inviting attendees to directly contribute to groundbreaking melanoma research, as well as a selection of “Chance to Win” baskets, with all proceeds benefiting the MRF’s mission to end melanoma. 

The MRF team is thrilled to welcome a wide range of sponsors to this event. Our Signature Events Sponsors include 1104 Health and DC Prime. Our Impact Sponsors include Dr. Patricia Lucey, SkyIntelli, Southwest Properties Management and Dr. Suraj Venna. Our Strength Sponsors include Caring Village and Navstar.  

Tickets and sponsorship opportunities for the DC Wings of Hope Reception are still available, though space is limited. To learn more or secure your spot, click here.  

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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.  

Media Contact   

Virginia Snider  

Development Marketing Manager  

VSnider@melanoma.org  

The 5K walk/run will bring together the San Francisco melanoma community with a goal of raising $60,000 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 new and returning local and national sponsors to the San Francisco event this November. Our Local Sponsors include Castle Biosciences, Ideaya Biosciences and Natera.  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, visit 2025 San Francisco Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Thursday, November 13 at 11:59 pm PT. 

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org 

We’re also excited to welcome Miss Georgia Teen USA, Kalysia Negron, as our special guest for the day! 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the Atlanta melanoma community with a goal of raising $53,000 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 new and returning local and national sponsors to the Atlanta event this November. Our Local Sponsors include Babcock Dermatology, Bristol Myers Squibb, Fit2Run, Forefront Dermatology, Natera and Pfizer. 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, visit 2025 Atlanta Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Thursday, October 30 at 11:59 pm ET. 

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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. 

Media Contact  

Virginia Snider 

Development Marketing Manager 

VSnider@melanoma.org