Melanoma Research Foundation

03/31/2026

As Mucosal Melanoma Awareness Month comes to a close, we are committed to continue shining a light on this rare and often overlooked subtype through our campaign.

This month, the MRF hosted an Ask the Expert webinar exploring the past, present and future of cell-based immunotherapy in melanoma. Leading experts shared how these innovative treatments have evolved, the scientific breakthroughs driving progress and what lies ahead to improve patient outcomes and reduce side effects.

The session also featured a powerful mucosal melanoma patient perspective, highlighting the real-world impact of these emerging therapies and the need for continued research and awareness realted to muscosal melanoma.

Together, we can bring mucosal melanoma out of the shadows and into focus.

Watch now:

Cell‑based immunotherapy has quickly evolved from an early experimental idea into a major treatment option for melanoma. This session will simplify the often...

03/30/2026

Thank you again to our incredible corporate sponsors for supporting our Dermatology Alliance Council (DAC) Meeting and Reception at the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) this past weekend.

Castle Biosciences, Inc. EltaMD Skin Care Neutrogena Tizo Skin

With your partnership, we were proud to bring together a distinguished group of board-certified dermatologists from across the country, representing diverse specialties and perspectives. The conversations and collaboration that took place are helping to advance melanoma prevention, early detection and the future of dermatologic care.

We’re grateful for your continued commitment to the dermatology and melanoma communities.

03/28/2026

As Mucosal Melanoma Awareness Month comes to a close, we are proud to reflect on our campaign and the important conversations it has sparked.

Mucosal melanoma accounts for about 1% of melanoma diagnoses and often develops in hidden areas of the body, leading to later-stage detection. Because it is so rare and frequently overlooked, continued awareness and dedicated research funding are critical to improving outcomes for patients.

Throughout March, we’ve shared educational resources, patient stories and key information to help bring mucosal melanoma out of the shadows but this work doesn’t end here.

Your support helps fund the research, education and advocacy needed to better understand this rare disease and develop more effective treatments.

Make a donation today and help keep this momentum going: https://buff.ly/b92whtU

03/27/2026

Melanoma research is changing what a diagnosis means.

Because of research:
• The 5-year survival rate for melanoma overall has increased to 95%
• Treatment of advanced melanoma has changed in recent years with novel development of several immunotherapy and targeted treatments
• There are currently 20 FDA approved drugs (used singly or in combination) to treat 31 different melanoma indications in adult and pediatric patients, including two drugs specifically approved for metastatic uveal (eye) melanoma

But breakthroughs don’t happen by accident. They happen because someone chooses to give. Be the reason the next patient hears, “We have a treatment for you.”

Support melanoma research today: https://buff.ly/b92whtU

03/26/2026

DC, we’re getting close!

In just a month and a half, we’ll kick off the 2026 season at the Miles for Melanoma 5K in Washington, DC, and the energy is already building.

We’re currently 43% toward our goal, and with your support, we can make this an incredible start to the season and drive even more impact. But behind every step is a story and a reason to show up.

Jen Powell from Team Jen-uinely shares why she participates:

“I participate in Miles for Melanoma because I am so grateful for the MRF and their work that helped save my life. I had a stage 1 melanoma removed from my thigh when I was 28. It returned the year I turned 50, making itself known in a nearby lymph node that became enlarged. Stage 3B. Because of immunotherapy, I recently reached the 2-year mark with no evidence of disease. The Miles for Melanoma 5K provides me the opportunity to give back!”

Register today and join us on Saturday, May 9 at Yards Park. Be part of the impact: https://donate.melanoma.org/site/TR?fr_id=2192&pg=entry

03/26/2026

We are proud to partner with the American Brain Tumor Association on an important survey focused on the needs of people living with brain metastases or leptomeningeal disease.

For those impacted by melanoma brain metastases, this survey is an opportunity to help highlight the unique needs of the melanoma community and inform future support, resources and care.

If you or a loved one has been affected, consider sharing your experience.

Learn more and participate:

03/26/2026

Shelley’s story is a powerful reminder why muscosal melanoma awareness matters.

For mucosal melanoma thrivers like Shelley, what began as a routine visit turned into a life-changing diagnosis.

Over the years, Shelley has faced multiple surgeries, recurrence and the physical and emotional toll of navigating a rare and often misunderstood subtype of melanoma. Through every challenge, she has continued to show resilience, leaning on community support and advocating for greater awareness.

Today, Shelley shares her journey to remind others that they are not alone and to shine a light on the urgent need for more research, education and support for those affected by mucosal melanoma.

As part of our campaign, we are honored to amplify her story and experience of this often-overlooked community.

Read Shelley’s full story: https://buff.ly/kOFrID8

03/26/2026

Tax season is here and it’s the perfect time to include support for the melanoma community in your plans!

Make your giving go further by supporting melanoma research, education and advocacy through tax-smart giving options. From donor-advised funds to stock donations, there are meaningful ways to give while also maximizing your financial benefits.

A gift today can help extend our mission and fund lifesaving research.

Plan ahead. Give smart. Make an impact. Click here to learn more: https://buff.ly/6RXjA9x

03/26/2026

We are proud to highlight Mona Foth, PhD, of the University of Utah, as a recipient of the MRF Career Development Award for this week's . Dr. Foth’s shares:

“Acral and mucosal melanoma are rare but aggressive types of melanoma that often don’t respond well to existing treatments, leaving patients with very limited options. Unlike the more common type of melanoma, which develops on sun-exposed skin, acral and mucosal melanoma arise in areas that are not typically exposed to the sun, such as the palms, soles, under the nails (acral melanoma), or in mucous membranes like the mouth, nose, and ge****ls (mucosal melanoma). They also follow a different genetic path, which makes them particularly challenging to treat.

Many of these tumors are driven by a signaling pathway called RAS, which helps cancer cells grow and survive. In my research, I study a new class of drugs called RAS(ON) inhibitors that are designed to directly shut down this pathway. While we’ve seen promising initial responses in patient-derived tumor models, these tumors can adapt to the treatment and become resistant.

With support from the MRF, I will test RAS(ON) therapy across a larger set of patient-derived tumors and investigate how resistance develops. By understanding both what makes tumors respond and how they escape treatment, we aim to develop more effective and longer-lasting therapies for patients with these underserved melanoma subtypes.”

By investing in innovative research like Dr. Foth’s, the MRF is working to expand treatment options and improve outcomes for patients facing rare and challenging melanoma subtypes.

Learn more here: https://melanoma.org/news-press/research-grant/transforming-therapy-for-acral-and-mucosal-melanoma-using-rason-inhibitors/

03/25/2026

We are thrilled to welcome you to our upcoming in-person event: Together Against Melanoma: The Ohio State University Patient & Caregiver Symposium on Saturday, May 9 from 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM ET.

This in-person symposium brings together leading melanoma experts along with patients, caregivers, and anyone interested in learning more about melanoma. The program is designed to provide the latest information, valuable resources, and shared perspectives to help attendees better understand and navigate the melanoma journey.

What to expect:

• Understanding melanoma and brain involvement (CNS/LMD): Gain a clear overview of melanoma, including important updates on how the disease can affect the brain and central nervous system

• The future of treatment: Learn how innovative approaches like TIL therapy, ctDNA and next-generation sequencing are shaping the future of advanced melanoma care

• Patient and caregiver testimonies: Hear directly from individuals impacted by melanoma, sharing real stories of resilience, challenges and hope

From clinical updates to personal stories, this symposium offers a meaningful opportunity to learn, ask questions and connect with others who understand the melanoma journey.

Breakfast, lunch and refreshments will be provided.

RSVP Here: https://melanomaevents.org/events/details/melanoma-research-foundation-melanoma-research-foundation

03/24/2026

Melanoma doesn’t just impact one person. It affects families, children, friends, coworkers, entire communities. Survivorship stories exist because research exists — and progress happens because people choose to invest in it.

Through the work of the MRF, critical funding is driving new discoveries, better treatments and hope for families facing this disease.

Join survivors, families and supporters in fueling that progress. Donate today and help move melanoma research forward: https://buff.ly/aNqYPiQ

03/24/2026

Denver, the countdown is on! We’re officially 6 months away from the 15th Annual Denver Gala, returning to Asterisk on Thursday, September 24 and this milestone year is shaping up to be our most inspiring yet.

Get ready for a night filled with energy, inspiration and meaningful moments. Stay tuned as we reveal this year’s honorees, and don’t miss your chance to be part of it.

Click the link to learn more, purchase tickets or secure your sponsorship today! https://buff.ly/c0NiIfm