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 

Q: What’s happening to my clinical trial if it’s federally funded? 

If you are currently enrolled in a clinical trial, you will still be able to participate in your trial.  

Q: How will the FY26 government shutdown impact melanoma clinical trial sites? 

Not all melanoma clinical trial sites will be equally impacted, but many will be affected by staffing changes and furloughs. If you are currently enrolled in a melanoma clinical trial at a site that receives federal funding or oversight (e.g. NIH/NCI-run-or sponsored trials), you will still be able to participate in your trial.  There may be some changes in operations based on staffing levels but that will be site specific so be sure to inquire locally. Privately funded clinical trials should not be affected by the shutdown.  

Q: Can I be enrolled in a new clinical trial during this time?  

No. Except under exceptional circumstances, trials are not enrolling at the National Institutes of Health or any of its institutes or centers such as the National Cancer Institute.  

Q: Where can I go to find out more information about my specific clinical trial? 

If you have further questions about potential impacts to your trial, visit the MRF’s Clinical Trial Finder Tool or reach out to info@melanoma.org.  

Q: Will I still be able to get my care at the VA? 

Yes. Medical appointments at the VA should proceed as scheduled though some ancillary services may be affected by staff furloughs that may impact wait and processing times.  
 
Q: What will happen to my Medicare benefits during the shutdown? 

You will still be able to enroll, go to the doctor or hospital, receive medical treatment and fill prescriptions. However, there may be long processing times for new enrollees. Telehealth benefits for seniors may be restricted during the shutdown, and it is best to talk to your healthcare provider about your options.  

Q: My patient has questions about their clinical trial options, how should I proceed? 

Clinicians can refer their patients to the MRF to speak to a member of staff for any questions related to clinical trials.  

Q: Where do NIH grant operations stand?  

All NIH grant peer review meetings, advisory council meetings, issuance of new awards and program/grants management activities have been halted. We will monitor closely for updates and share information as it becomes available. 

Q. How does the shutdown impact NIH research? 

Basic science and translational research activities at NIH are being heavily impacted at this time.  Much of the impact is project specific, but we expect the shutdown to slow activities considerably. 

Q: How does the shutdown impact the Department of Defense’ Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program (CDMRP) operations? 

CDMRP business operations, program management and program panel execution will continue. Scheduled panel reviews and deadlines remain in effect for the coming weeks, pending how long the shutdown will last. 

Q: Is the CDC’s Skin Cancer Prevention Program still running?  

No. All CDC prevention activities have been halted at this time.  

Please reach out to info@melanoma.org. 

The 5K walk/run will bring together the San Diego 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 Diego event this October. Our Local Sponsors include Castle Biosciences, Iovance Biotherapeutics, Merck 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 Diego Miles for Melanoma – Melanoma Research Foundation. Regular rate registration will close on Wednesday, October 15 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