Destination Healthy Skin Concludes Its 2021 Journey
The pandemic did not stop us! Although our journey was delayed, the Destination Healthy Skin free skin cancer screening and education program hit the road from August to November 2021, holding events in 21 communities around the country.
Hope and Progress
This lifesaving program brought hope and progress in the fight against skin cancer, helping thousands of people along the way.
- 12,000+ miles traveled by our custom RV with two private exam rooms
- 21 communities visited to deliver free screenings and skin cancer education
- 920 free skin cancer screenings provided by 40 volunteer dermatologists
- 195 potential skin cancers and precancers identified by our volunteer dermatologists, including 10 suspected melanomas
- 4,000+ people received free educational materials, skin care and sun protection products
“The mobility and visibility of the RV challenged people’s instincts to procrastinate,” explained Dan Latore, former executive director of The Skin Cancer Foundation. “It’s here, it’s now and it’s free. How can you say no?”
“Peace of Mind”
Providing this vital public health service has undoubtedly saved lives, especially during a time when many people have been putting off doctor visits. In fact, one of the top comments we heard from people was they wouldn’t have gotten a screening this year if we weren’t in town. And we were told by many participants that the free screenings and educational information gave them “peace of mind.”
Hearing these heartfelt words motivates us to reach as many communities as possible in 2022:
“Appreciate the free screening (my first time). Great experience!”
“This is something great especially for those that can’t afford it. I thank you very much.”
“The fact that it’s so easy just to come in is very important to me — it makes sure that skin cancer is not forgotten as something super important to screen for!”
“Makes me feel good about taking charge of my health, even if in a small way.”
“Great opportunity. I have not been since the beginning of pandemic.”
“With doctors not seeing patients in person these days skin health could be overlooked.”
“It is important for me to check my skin. I want to make sure I am staying as healthy and aware as possible and want to protect my skin as best I can.”
Powered by You
Each year, this program is powered by the generosity of our sponsors and people like you.
Thank you for keeping Destination Healthy Skin on the road, helping thousands of people along the way.
We hope you enjoyed following us as we traveled around the country. Here’s a collection of images from the last few events that highlight the amazing people we’ve met along the way!
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- Thumbs up! In Atlanta, participants were grateful for volunteer Zachary W. Eyre, MD.
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- Carol Trakimas, DO, volunteered at both days of events in Raleigh – and even scouted locations for us!
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- Sun-savvy kids colored at our event in Raleigh.
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- Volunteer Beth G. Goldstein, MD, reviews exam results with a participant in Raleigh.
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- In Washington DC, we joined forces with the Learn 2 Derm Skin Health Fair presented by The George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences. Our event manager, Amy, posed with the Learn 2 Derm volunteers.
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- At every event, participants received education materials as well as product samples courtesy of EltaMD and ScarAway.
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- Dermatology residents at the George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences screened 43 people under the guidance of Adam Friedman, MD.
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- In Philadelphia, Instagram influencer Ian Michael Crumm stopped by to learn more about skin cancer detection, and received a screening from Erum Illyas, MD.
The planning for next year is already underway! We’re eager to get back on the road to provide more free screenings and hope you’ll join us again by supporting our 2022 journey to the ultimate destination: healthy skin for all!
