
In 2005, the family of Mark Allen Friedman created
The Mark Allen Friedman Foundation and hosted the First Annual
Make Your Mark 5K Run/Walk in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. With continued support, the Foundation hopes this event will gain the momentum it needs to fulfill Mark’s dream that a cure to melanoma and other skin related cancers will someday be found.
In addition to raising funds for medical research, the Foundation is committed to educating the public about the harmful effects of the sun and the importance of early detection. Melanoma cases in the US continue to rise more than any other cancer and cause 79% of all skin cancer deaths. However, when removed before it develops the capacity to spread, melanoma is curable.
The Foundation recently expanded its mission to provide financial assistance to those personally affected by melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. Individuals being treated at The University of Pennsylvania Abramson Cancer Center can receive financial assistance from the Foundation through the Center’s Special Needs Fund.

Mark is survived by his wife Nicole, daughter Taylor and son Dylan.