Steps Against Melanoma is the number-one way funds are raised to end melanoma, and the participation and fundraising make all the difference. The money raised goes to AIM’s groundbreaking research initiatives, like the International Melanoma Tissue Bank Consortium. Founded in 2004, AIM at Melanoma is a global foundation dedicated to finding more effective treatments and, ultimately, the cure for melanoma. 

Located at the Al-Lopez Park on January 16th, starting the check-in at 8am, the annual walk will be hosted in Tampa. One of the acknowledged sponsors in Mary Margaret Braddock, whom is a stage 3b melanoma survivor and Moffitt Cancer Center Patient. Her daughter, senior Elyse Braddock is one of the many in charge of the walk, and accounts for the presidents position.  

” The walk is important to be because I want to raise awareness for melanoma patients and survivors,” Braddock said.  

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that occurs when pigment-producing cells—known as melanocytes—mutate and become cancerous. Melanoma is the most serious form of  skin cancer and is the fifth most common cancer among both men and women 

“My mom was diagnosed with melanoma my junior year and has going through treatment since then,” Braddock said. 

To register for the 5k walk/run, click the link: https://support.aimatmelanoma.org/event/steps-against-melanoma-tampa-2023/e458181  

“I am looking forward to having my friends come and support a cause that has effected my family and I,” Braddock said.  

If you are unable to attend, consider donating and raising the goal amount of $20,000 for research and medical purposes.  

“My goal is to raise awareness so people will get their skin checked and raise funding for clinical research,” Braddock said.