"Wings of Hope" fundraising gala for melanoma research

One man's dream of making a difference in the fight against melanoma is coming to life through the launch of a fundraising gala that will raise funds for melanoma research. Chad MacDonald lost his wife in 2005 to melanoma, and has since worked to raise funds for a cure through various events and fundraisers. His efforts will culminate with the launch of Washington, DC's First Annual Wings of Hope Gala to be held on Saturday, Nov. 7 at 7:00 p.m. in Potomac Falls, Va.

"When my wife succumbed to melanoma four years ago, I wanted to do something that would truly make a difference," said Chad MacDonald, founder of the Brenda MacDonald Melanoma Research Foundation and gala chair. "With this inaugural event, we're aiming to make a significant donation towards research. We have a fantastic location, great auction prizes, and an outpouring of support from friends and family, local businesses, and corporations."

The event will feature diamonds and champagne, "Trump" style casino gaming, both silent and live auctions, music and dancing, as well as exquisite food and drink. There are over 120 auction items that include travel and accommodations to Napa and Sonoma, a Super Bowl package, and wines from some of the world's top vineyards. Corporate sponsors include Genentech, Roche, Merrill Lynch, and Morgan Stanley, among others.

All proceeds from the event will be donated to the Melanoma Research Foundation (MRF), an organization that supports medical research for finding effective treatments and eventually a cure for melanoma.

"The connection is simple. Research leads to new treatments and fundraising events generate more research dollars," said Tim Turnham, executive director for the MRF. "We should not underestimate the impact this week's event will have in helping develop new and meaningful therapies for melanoma."

The event will be the first fundraiser gala held at the newly enhanced Trump National Golf Club, located on the scenic banks of the Potomac River. The course was purchased by real-estate developer and celebrity, Donald Trump earlier this year.

"It's very moving to see so many friends and colleagues work together to make this event a success," said MacDonald. "From Charles to Loudoun County, the DC area has really stepped up to say that we want a cure for melanoma."

To find out more about DC's First Annual Wings of Hope Gala and the Brenda MacDonald Melanoma Research Foundation, visit https://melanoma.org/.