Dear Valued Members and Friends of Dermatology - 

During a recent swim, I found myself reflecting (pun intended) on a defining moment in my life. 

Four years ago, I literally STOPPED on a stop sign, taking a break during a four-mile run. I stared at this stop sign for a quite a while, deciding if I should go straight and add a few more miles, or, go left, and take the short cut home. At that very moment, the stop sign represented two paths I could take. One path led to an opportunity that defined the service I was to give my community, and the other path would put me in charge of HOW I served my community. I chose the latter and I'm so glad I did.

The decision I made that day was pivotal in leading me to CalDerm TODAY. Because of that stop sign, I'm here with you today, inspired by the countless ways the profession continues to give back. Be it through the Firefighter Cancer Screening, through advocacy, or the ways we have not yet designed, my path of service has grown in ways previously unimagined.

This sentiment was recently solidified during a Town Hall featuring Dr. Ann Haas, Scott Jeannie of the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, and Caylie Valentina, Founder of the Andy Valentina Melanoma Foundation. We talked about many things - the research and threats firefighters face with skin cancer, and the how and why CalDerm is taking charge with skin cancer screenings. When you watch the Town Hall, you'll be given a glimpse into why CalDerm is so incredibly special - we truly go the extra mile to ensure our care is embedded in all communities. Please don't hesitate to watch and share this invaluable resource with your colleagues and any firefighters you may know. Together, Team Derm can make a difference! 

In other inspiration news, Dr. April Armstrong spoke to the Dermatology Interest Group Podcast! Diving into her own dermatology journey, Dr. Armstrong shared her passion for the profession and inspired listeners to create opportunities for professional success. Listen to Dr. Armstrong here. 

From my vantage point, Dermatology really is everywhere. We as a team, make a huge difference in health and in our communities. We inspire, we lead, we reflect what is possible.

As you move forward into the end of the week, take a moment to "stop" and remember that every day affords us an opportunity to do and be the best we can. I know as a member of team CalDerm, there is nothing I take more seriously than the opportunity to advance and serve the profession. 

In gratitude,

The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD), FireFighter Cancer Support Network and CalDerm are partnering to keep Firefighters healthy. Modeling a similar program first launched in Boston, CalDerm is offering a Skin Cancer Prevention Program on August 20 and 21, 2022 at the Truckee Meadows Fire Protection District.

Our mission is to raise awareness about skin cancer by teaching the signs and symptoms of skin cancer and performing skin exams at no charge.

For the first time in CalDerm History, we are hosting a Resident Trivia Night!

All Dermatology Residents are invited to join in a virtual night of fun - test your dermatology and general knowledge and win prizes!  

Registration for this event is FREE. Also free is CalDerm Resident Membership! When you sign up for the Trivia Night, you'll also be signed up as a member of CalDerm.

Does it get any better than Fun, Free, and Residents getting together?  

For our 50th year celebration, we have the BEST family friendly entertainment imagined to match our milestone year! We have...

A Jazz Musician.

Not one, but TWO magicians.

Special remarks from our Reception Sponsor Castle.

And did we mention REALLY good food?

All attendees, exhibitors, and family joining you at the Omni Resort and Spa are welcome to attend.

P.S...Remind the Resident in YOUR life that registration to Fall Symposium is only $50!

There's not better time than NOW to fall into CME's before the end of the year.

Our Virtual Hot Topics affords registrants 2.0 CME's, and the opportunity to watch the sessions ON DEMAND.

The November Virtual Hot Topics will cover topics ranging from Laser-Based Dermatology, Pediatrics Pigmented Lesions, Mycosis Fungoides Patients and Challenging Cases from Cutaneous Oncology.

Registration is FREE to members, FREE to residents, $95 for non-members.

For a limited time through September 30, CalDerm is offering an 18-month membership for $590! This will allow you to receive the benefits of CalDerm membership without missing out on the first half of the year. And pro-tip: membership is FREE for residents and fellows!

Take advantage of our summer special and enjoy FREE registration to Virtual Hot Topics, discounted registration to Fall Symposium, access to Advocacy News and more!

Now is the perfect time to renew your membership, or join CalDerm for the first time.