LUDLOW, Mass. (WWLP) - A fundraiser in Ludlow was held on Saturday night in honor of a well-respected member of the community who lost his battle with melanoma last year. The event was sold-out with 450 tickets sold, and was a great success, showing the support and generosity of the community towards this cause. "He was the life of every party, so he will be here with us tonight," expressed Alyssa Coelho, Jeff Coelho's daughter. The 'Fight Like Jeff' fundraiser was started in honor of Jeff Coelho who was diagnosed with Stage 4 melanoma in April of 2022, and passed away at the age of 56 on August 26, 2023. Through this event his legacy and fight continues to be remembered by many. "He was a soccer star in his day," expressed Sara Gladu, Coelho's lifelong partner. "He was a youth Ludlow soccer coach, he was loved by so many, which is the reason we've had such an outpouring amount of support." Mark Papuga, Jeff Coelho's lifelong friend told 22News about doing good in Jeff's memory, "It's a great feeling to be part of this not only for him and his family but for Dana Farber as well." The funds raised from Saturday's event will go towards crucial research at the prestigious Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which focuses on developing advanced treatments for melanoma. "This is curative treatment, however not for everybody," explained Gladu. "That is why we are on a mission to make it happen for everybody so families like us don't lose their parents, their loved ones, amazing people like Jeff, to this deadly disease." This year alone the American Cancer Society estimates over 100,000 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed and nearly 8,000 people will die from the disease. "I just think we also want to increase awareness to everyone here and their family members how important it is to get your yearly checks and if you see something speak up, go directly to your doctor," said Alyssa Coelho. With a dinner, drawings, and live music, this event is expected to raise over $20,000. Prior to this event, The Jeff Coelho Fund has already raised close to $24,000. Over the next five years they look to raise $100,000. If you're interested in donating to this cause you can find out how on Jeff's page on the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute website. Kayleigh Thomas is a reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since 2022. Follow Kayleigh on X @kayleighcthomas and view her bio to see more of her work.