#United States #New York #Melanoma Research Alliance #Fundraising Event #LFFM

Landmark Fundraising Event: $4.2 Million for Melanoma Research

On June 11, 2025, the prestigious Museum of Modern Art in New York City played host to a remarkable gathering that aimed to combat melanoma, not to broker deals. More than 1,100 leaders from the private equity sector, including financiers and attorneys, united under a common cause: to save lives. This impactful event, the 15th Annual Leveraged Finance Fights Melanoma (LFFM), culminated in raising a staggering $4.2 million, marking a historic achievement in its mission to support the Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), the largest international non-profit group focused on melanoma research.

LFFM has eloquently positioned itself as the premier event for the leveraged finance community to engage in critical discussions surrounding melanoma research. The initiative was founded in 2011 by survivors Brendan Dillon of Veritas Capital and Jeff Rowbottom of General Atlantic, and since its inception, it has garnered over $32 million to fuel vital research. The funding has been instrumental in transforming melanoma care and significantly advancing cancer research as a whole.

The Impact of Fundraising

The investments made through LFFM have stood at the forefront of groundbreaking innovations, including advancements in immunotherapy, AI-driven early diagnostics, and rare melanoma types which are often overlooked within the research community. MRA highlights the importance of addressing not only common melanoma but also the less-discussed variants, such as acral, mucosal, uveal, and pediatric melanomas, which contribute to a significant percentage of mortality in advanced cases.

Jeff Rowbottom, co-founder of LFFM, passionately expressed, "LFFM demonstrates the extraordinary potential when financial capital aligns itself with the noble purpose of finding a cure. A more fitting title for this event might be 'Leveraged Finance Fights Cancer'. The advancements in melanoma treatment are beneficial not just to melanoma patients but are also being adapted for over 30 different cancer types, showcasing a remarkable return on investment. While we have many success stories, we remain motivated by those patients we could not save."

The charity gala was co-chaired by numerous prominent figures in finance, including Clare Bailhé from MidCap Financial and Kerry Dolan from Brinley Partners, emphasizing the extensive support from industry leaders. Major sponsorships came from influential organizations such as HPS, Veritas Capital, and Apollo|MidCap, among others, showcasing the collective commitment to this cause.

In a statement that encapsulated the event’s significance, Marc Hurlbert, PhD, CEO of MRA, commented, "The fundraising effort resulting in $4.2 million represents a transformative leap forward. Although we've achieved considerable advancements in melanoma research, there remains an urgent need for effective treatments, as too many patients continue to confront daunting challenges. This generosity empowers scientists to explore new avenues of discovery, propelling us closer to breakthroughs that promise real hope for patients and their families globally."

The Urgency of Melanoma Research

The need for continued research into melanoma is underscored by alarming statistics: in 2025 alone, it is estimated that over 100,000 Americans will be diagnosed with this aggressive cancer, and tragically, every hour someone will lose their life to it. Melanoma's unique ability to spread rapidly, often metastasizing to vital organs like the brain, lungs, and liver, highlights the urgency of early diagnosis and comprehensive treatment protocols. Notably, melanoma is increasingly prevalent among adolescents and young adults, demanding attention from both healthcare professionals and the public.

Moreover, certain groups, such as military personnel, veterans, and outdoor workers, face heightened risks due to exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The urgency of developing effective treatments is evident; MRA-funded researchers have spearheaded the approval of 17 new therapies by the FDA in just over a decade, showcasing the impact of dedicated funding and research.

About the Melanoma Research Alliance

Founded in 2007 by Debra and Leon Black, the Melanoma Research Alliance stands as a pivotal institution in the fight against melanoma. The MRA's mission is to alleviate suffering and reduce mortality rates by promoting innovative research and scientific advancements in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship of melanoma. The MRA operates with exceptional fiscal efficiency, with 100% of its administrative costs underwritten by the Black family, ensuring that every contribution directly supports research initiatives.

For those seeking to make a difference and support melanoma research, more information is available at CureMelanoma.org.

This year’s record-breaking LFFM event serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing need for community engagement and financial support in the battle against this deadly disease.