NEW YORK (Oct. 24, 2019) A Note from Shelley Tanner, CEO/President
Champions for Change Gala
On October 17th, I had the great honor of attending as a Committee Member for the The Skin Cancer Foundation’s Champions for Change Gala, held at the Plaza in New York.
It was a wonderful evening celebrating The Skin Cancer Foundation’s 40th year of existence, and vital work advancing research initiatives, educational campaigns, and community programs that save lives. With 400 guests in attendance, more than $700,000 was raised. That’s something to celebrate!
Recognition for Sandy Klein
During the evening special recognition was given to Sandy Klein, SCF’s 2019 Champion for Change honoree for his ongoing commitment and support of SCF. On behalf of the whole SanovaWorks Team, we celebrate Sandy for this special honor. This year SCF’s Media Award was given to Parents magazine for the article, “Here Comes the Sunscreen” by Leslie Goldman. This award recognizes excellence in print, broadcast and online journalism that addresses skin cancer prevention, early detection, and/or treatment. Thank you to Ms. Goldman and Parents Executive Editor Julia Edelstein for their contribution to skin cancer prevention and early detection.
Skin Cancer Foundation Mission
For 40 years, The Skin Cancer Foundation has worked to educate the public on the importance of skin cancer prevention, early detection and prompt, effective treatment. The dedicated staff works with physician members, corporate partners, directors and donors, to treat and prevent skin cancer and, ultimately, save lives.
As a cancer survivor, I am hyper aware of the importance of the “what’s that moment”, –like when Susan Manber’s daughter asked about the small white dot on her nose. It was only the tip of the iceberg, in so many ways. For skin cancer, the tip of the iceberg is visible, so be on the lookout and continually ask “what’s that?”
A Special Thank You
A special thank you to Jane Brody for covering Susan’s story. I was born in Australia and spent the first half of my life there, where a story like Susan’s is all too common. Although skin cancer and melanoma rates in the US are not as high as they are Down Under, most people don’t realize not only how prevalent it is – but how preventable it is! Continually ask “what’s that?” about any skin changes you see; better to ask– if it’s nothing, carry on, but if not, you have early detection. Thank you Skin Cancer Foundation for launching “The Big See” to draw more attention to this.
Except for the year that I was undergoing chemotherapy myself, I’ve been to the Skin Cancer Foundation Gala for the past 15 years or so. My favorite thing about the Gala is seeing a passionate group of people come together to support this worthy cause. Skin cancer touches the lives of everyone. The SCF gala brings together dermatologists, plastic surgeons, and other healthcare practitioners, skin care industry teams, professional and consumer media, journalists, high-profile personalities, patients, family, and philanthropists to work on this common goal. I can say with confidence that as a cancer patient, I felt deep gratitude for everything that came together to provide the level of treatment I was able to access. The Skin Cancer Foundation helps to provide that same level of treatment and support. Thank you, SCF.
Regards, Shelley Tanner