Melanoma Foundation of New England to host fundraising gala to educate public on cancer

Event to benefit the Foundation's awareness and education programs

On Tuesday, October 26, 2010, the Melanoma Foundation of New England will be hosting Shades of Hope - a fundraising gala to be held at the InterContinental Boston Hotel. The Foundation's signature event, Shades of Hope is dedicated to those who inspire the foundation to educate the public on one of the deadliest forms of cancer.  Massachusetts Senator John Kerry and his wife Teresa Heinz are the event Honorary Co-Chairs.

This year's event – which begins at 5:30 PM with a VIP/Sponsor reception – honors Massachusetts State Senator James E. Timilty and James Burke of Allegheny Contract for their significant contribution to the Foundation's mission. The general reception is from 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM and includes a silent auction.  Master of Ceremonies for the evening is WCVB-TV, Channel 5 anchor Liz Brunner.

"My son Ted died from melanoma when he was just 29 years old," says Diane Maloney, event Co-Chair and President of the Marketing Group of New England.  "The best way to save lives is through prevention and early detection of the disease. While melanoma continues to rise at epidemic rates in men over the age of 50, more young people are dying from this disease. Melanoma is the most common form of cancer for young adults 25-29."