An Evening of Hope
The Denver Gala Driving Progress Against Melanoma
Photos Courtesy of The Melanoma Research Foundation
On Sept. 24, the ballroom at the Asterisk Denver will glow with more than candlelight. It will shine with stories of courage, scientific breakthroughs and a community determined to outpace one of the fastest-growing cancers in the country.
The Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF) celebrates its 30th anniversary this year—a milestone rooted in resilience. Founded in 1996 by a stage IV melanoma patient frustrated by the lack of effective treatments, the organization set out to accelerate research and expand hope. At the time, only three FDA-approved therapies existed for advanced melanoma. Today, there are about 20, according to MRF.
Since its inception, MRF has funded more than $28 million in research grants, helping propel clinical trials and contributing to multiple FDA approvals. Its mission now spans three pillars: research, education and advocacy. Through prevention campaigns promoting sun-safe behaviors—daily sunscreen, protective clothing and annual skin checks—the foundation emphasizes that roughly 93 percent of cutaneous melanoma cases are preventable. It also advocates for policies including the banning of tanning beds for minors and the acquisition of critical federal research funding, particularly for veterans, who face higher melanoma rates.
But in Colorado, the mission takes on special urgency. With high elevation and intense UV exposure, the state has a higher incidence of melanoma than many others. The Denver Gala, now in its 15th year, has become one of MRF’s flagship events, raising between up to $900,000 annually for research. The evening honors patients, clinicians and researchers—including recipients of the foundation’s Courage Award—and highlights breakthroughs such as revolutionary therapies that have transformed once-dire prognoses.
It is, organizers say, a night of remembrance and hope—a celebration of progress, and a reminder that continued investment in research and awareness saves lives.
Melanoma Research Foundation
