Our family’s journey began in 2015 when our daughter, Gracie, was diagnosed with Stage IV Melanoma. She was treated at the Cleveland Clinic for over eight years, and we lost her to this cancer in 2023. 

        Grace wanted to participate in a walk/run when she was well enough. She found an event in Columbus, so our family and many extended family and friends participated as “Team Grace”. We raised a considerable amount of money and had the largest team participating. 

        The staff of the Melanoma Research Foundation approached me, and I proposed moving the event to Cleveland, offering to serve as chair. Eight years later, our Cleveland event has become the largest in the country in terms of both participation and funds raised for melanoma research.

         My efforts are all because of my daughter, she is my hero and reason for getting involved. Today, I serve on the board of the Melanoma Research Foundation and continue with the event each year. My goal is to raise awareness about sun protection and research! My family (Mike, Erin, and Julia) helps to support my efforts with fundraising and volunteering at the Miles for Melanoma Cleveland event each year. 

         If anyone is interested in volunteering or donating, join our team,  “Team Grace.” The event is held at Edgewater Park on Sunday, August 3rd. Registration opens at 7:30 AM, or sign up online at https://melanoma.org/miles-for-melanoma.