Leveraged Finance Fights Melanoma Event in London Raises £1.4 Million for Research

Leveraged Finance Fights Melanoma: A Successful Gathering for Research

On January 29, 2025, the financial sector united for a noble cause at the inaugural Leveraged Finance Fights Melanoma (LFFM) event held in London. This prestigious cocktail party took place at the historic National Gallery, attracting a vibrant crowd of over 600 attendees from the leveraged finance and private equity sectors. The event marked a significant milestone in the global outreach of the LFFM initiative, expanding its operations beyond New York City where it originally began.

The highlight of the evening was the impressive £1.4 million raised to support the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA). This substantial amount is aimed at empowering UK researchers focused on high-impact melanoma studies, which are vital for developing innovative treatment options and driving forward the fight against this aggressive form of skin cancer.

Jeff Rowbottom, co-founder of LFFM and a board member of the MRA, emphasized the meaning behind the event, stating, "This expansion reflects the global commitment of the leveraged finance and private equity communities in driving innovation in cancer research." His words resonated with many attendees, reminding them of the importance of collective effort in the ongoing battle against cancer.

In her remarks, Stephanie Kauffman, president of the MRA, shared her enthusiasm for the potential impact of the funds raised. She explained, "The £1.4 million raised will have a transformative impact on our mission, allowing us to continue investing in brilliant UK-based researchers who are pushing boundaries in melanoma research."

Founded in 2011, LFFM was inspired by the personal experiences of its founders, Brendan Dillon and Jeff Rowbottom, both melanoma survivors. Since its inception, the organization has successfully raised over £22 million, significantly aiding MRA’s aggressive research agenda. This year’s London event boasted an impressive roster of attendees from the industry, clearly demonstrating the commitment and cooperation among finance professionals in addressing health challenges.

The event was co-chaired by noteworthy figures within the finance community, including Roxana Mirica from Apax Partners and Valeria Mollova from Apollo. A broad array of sponsors also contributed to the evening’s success, including top-tier names like Goldman Sachs and Latham & Watkins, confirming the high level of support for this essential cause.

MRA stands as the foremost non-profit organization dedicated to advancing melanoma research, driven by the mission to end suffering and fatalities related to melanoma. Their efforts have resulted in significant advancements in the treatment of this disease, with over 17 FDA-approved therapies since establishment. This success is attributed not only to dedicated researchers but also to the financial backing that events like LFFM provide, ensuring that world-class research can continue uninterrupted.

As the evening drew to a close, the sentiment of hope and determination filled the halls of the National Gallery. The funds raised during this event signify more than just financial support; they are a beacon of hope for patients, survivors, and families affected by melanoma. Through continued generous support and collaboration within the financial sector, the fight against melanoma becomes increasingly promising. The LFFM initiative, now firmly rooted in the UK, looks forward to future events that will continue to support unprecedented advancements in melanoma research and patient care.

For those interested in learning more about the Melanoma Research Alliance and their efforts, additional information is available at www.CureMelanoma.org.