With tremendous sadness, we are writing to let you know about the passing of our beloved friend, colleague and longtime Skin of Color Society leader, Marta I. Rendon, MD, FAAD, after a long and courageous battle against cancer.

 

Dr. Rendon was a founding member of SOCS and served our organization with boundless devotion as President from 2013-2015. She was also elected as President of the Women’s Dermatologic Society and was given the honor of serving as Honorary President. She also served other dermatology organizations.

 

Dr. Rendon was the epitome of a dynamic leader and inspirational role model. She was filled with vision, verve and compassion for others. She uplifted and encouraged others with her warmth, positivity, indomitable inner strength, integrity and resilience in the face of life’s challenges. She loved practicing dermatology and caring for her patients, and was equally passionate about conducting clinical research and bringing new technologies to the world. She had a huge heart for community service, as well as training, educating, and mentoring others—particularly championing young leaders in skin of color dermatology. She was a force of nature…known for her brilliant mind, curious nature, infectious enthusiasm, vibrant personality, joie de vivre, and above all, a profound love of people…most especially, her deeply loved family.

 

Dr. Rendon was the Founder of the Rendon Center for Dermatology & Aesthetic Medicine in Boca Raton, Florida. Globally recognized for her dermatologic expertise in cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Rendon regularly spoke at international dermatology conferences, published extensively, consulted with many companies and conducted numerous clinical trials. She served as clinical associate professor for University of Miami School of Medicine in the Department of Dermatology for over 20 years. However, as much as she loved her rich and rewarding career in dermatology, she believed in the importance of enjoying the gifts and joys of life outside of the field. Her life exemplified one that was wholeheartedly well-lived and well-loved.

 

An extraordinary and unforgettable individual, Dr. Marta Rendon will be deeply missed. We extend heartfelt sympathies to her family members, SOCS friends and dermatology colleagues. She is survived by her son Juan Pellerano and lifelong partner, Dr. Bret M. Ribotsky, and his children, Robyn and Ben.

 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in her honor to Let’s Win Pancreatic Cancer. A memorial page has been set up for those who would like to share their memories and tributes: https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/boca-raton-fl/marta-rendon-10123740