Ruben 

An unforgettable individual who touched the lives of many; we all have our special story with Ruben and our memories of him continue to remain in the forefront, especially on his birthday (May 08th) and passing anniversary.

Ruben was diagnosed with melanoma in the summer of 2016 and had a 5 year journey with this cancer, ultimately passing in the fall of 2021.

During these 5 years, not only did he courageously battle melanoma but he was determined to live an active and vivacious life. He was a proud first responder, a wonderful father & husband. He carved out time to spend with close friends and family.  He remained the world traveler, visiting Dubai & Fiji and returning to the beaches of Mexico as often as he could. 

What we didn’t see and he did not share were the immunotherapy sessions and the management of the side effects these treatments would have on him. The multiple hospital visits, the scans, the anxiety of not knowing what the future held for him. Ruben was a planner & melanoma tested him in many ways. He was private with his health care journey, nonetheless he had a community of supporters who stepped in immediately when he allowed them.

"Ruben's World Travelers" is formed as a tribute - we love you & miss you Ruben! 10 years since your diagnosis & 5 years since you left us at the young age of 51

The cure for melanoma begins with me

Melanoma is the deadliest and fastest growing form of skin cancer and we all want a cure to be found soon. Miles for Melanoma is the way people come together to take action and help support this fight and the mission of the Melanoma Research Foundation.