March 2024 News
Discover how YOU are making a difference in our mission to end brain tumors AND…
…meet the student-scientist awarded for her research on radio-resistance in meningioma; get empowered with diet and nutrition tips; explore the risks of melanoma and brain mets; see how doctors are leveraging minimally invasive surgery; and meet a survivor who channels her passion for hiking to thrive with glioblastoma.
March 2024 News
Discover how YOU are making a difference in our mission to end brain tumors AND…
…meet the student-scientist awarded for her research on radio-resistance in meningioma; get empowered with diet and nutrition tips; explore the risks of melanoma and brain mets; see how doctors are leveraging minimally invasive surgery; and meet a survivor who channels her passion for hiking to thrive with glioblastoma.
Beth Kassab: Finding Connection After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Beth Kassab didn’t know what to expect when she signed up to volunteer at the ABTA’s National Conference. As a brain
What Is Scanxiety?
Scanxiety is the emotional stress and fear that can occur: For many, it brings sleepless nights, racing thoughts, or a fear
What If My Brain Tumor Comes Back? How to Prepare Emotionally and Medically
A brain tumor recurrence is one of the most feared possibilities for patients and caregivers alike. While no one can predict
Five Reasons a Breakthrough for Brain Tumors 5k (BT5K) is the Most Fun You’ll Have Moving Your Feet (or Wheels!)
(Hint: It’s more than just a walk in the park…) Think 5ks are just for runners? Think again… Whether you’re a
Suchet Taori: Advancing Brain Tumor Research as the 2024 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award Recipient
Suchet Taori, a dedicated physician scientist student and recipient of the 2024 American Brain Tumor Association’s (ABTA) prestigious Lucien Rubinstein Award,
Turning Laughter into Action: Comedy Show Fuels the Fight Against Brain Tumors
The “Laugh Your Brains Out” Comedy Show, organized in memory of Jenny Williams, a passionate humor enthusiast and fierce brain tumor
Meet Gail Garcelon: Passionate About Helping Other People
Thanks to the vision and generosity of Gail Garcelon and her family foundation, the Glenn Garcelon Foundation, the ABTA has a
Breaking New Ground: Meet the 2024 ABTA Flexible Research Fund Grant Recipient
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) is proud to announce Dr. Milan Chheda, Associate Professor of Medicine Division of Medical Oncology
The Truth About Sugar, Keto, and Cancer
Does Sugar Really Feed Cancer? You’ve probably heard the claim that “sugar feeds cancer.” While this statement isn’t entirely false, it
How Nutrition Helps During Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment can take a toll on the body. Many people experience fatigue, nausea, and loss of appetite, making it hard
How the Right Foods Can Help Your Brain Heal and Thrive
Did you know that what you eat can help your brain heal, improve memory, and even boost your mood? Nutrition plays
Giving Back with Your Time and Energy
Meet one American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) volunteer who is determined to change the trajectory for families facing the devastating diagnosis
Avid Runner Springs into Action After Glioblastoma Diagnosis
It’s spring—a time to rejuvenate, refresh and take action. Learn how one runner’s glioblastoma diagnosis became the catalyst for resilience, hope
Advancing Treatment Options for Primary CNS Lymphoma
TakeAim Lymphoma – Now Enrolling ** Sponsored by Curis. This content is not an endorsement from the ABTA.** Primary CNS Lymphoma
Out of the Ashes: Undergoing Chemoradiation for Glioblastoma Treatment during the Devastating Pacific Palisades Fire in Southern California
** Sponsored by Pacific Neuroscience Institute (PNI). This content is not an endorsement from the ABTA.** By Emmaline Mauitson, MPAP, PA-C
Understanding Ependymoma: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers
When someone hears the word ependymoma (pronounced ep-en-dy-MO-muh), it can feel overwhelming. This rare brain and spinal cord tumor affects both
New Horizons in External Beam Radiation for Brain Tumors
Radiation therapy has been a cornerstone in the treatment of brain tumors for decades. However, new advancements in external beam radiation
Understanding Kidney Cancer Brain Metastases
How Metastatic Brain Tumors Affect Kidney Cancer Care A kidney cancer diagnosis is already challenging, but when cancer spreads to the
How AI Can Help Brain Tumor Patients and Caregivers: Practical Tools, Support, and Top AI Platforms
Living with a brain tumor can make even the simplest daily tasks feel overwhelming. Depending on the location and type of
A Serendipitous Love Story
Some love stories are written in the stars, while others begin with an unexpected knock on the wrong door. That’s how
Dr. Priscilla Brastianos: Pioneering Rare Brain Tumor Research and Championing Women in Science
On International Day of Women and Girls in Science and in recognition of Rare Disease Day, we celebrate Dr. Priscilla Brastianos,
Understanding Sex and Intimacy After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
When facing a brain tumor diagnosis, many people focus on treatment and survival. But what happens after treatment? One major concern
The Healing Power of Therapy Dogs
For many people facing a brain tumor diagnosis, the journey can feel overwhelming—emotionally, physically, and mentally. But sometimes, the smallest moments
Finding Strength and Peace After a Glioblastoma Diagnosis: My Journey to Healing
by Amber Gardenhire Being diagnosed with stage IV glioblastoma (GBM) eight years ago changed everything. My doctors are still amazed that
From Mutation to Treatment: Understanding the Impact of IDH Inhibitors
When doctors diagnose a brain tumor, they look at many factors to decide the best treatment plan. One important discovery in
Coping with a Brain Tumor Diagnosis: Finding Strength in Uncertainty
A brain tumor diagnosis is a life-altering event that can shake a person’s sense of security and control. The news can
Fertility Preservation for Adolescents and Young Adults With Brain Tumors
Understanding the Unique Fertility Challenges for AYAs A brain tumor diagnosis is a life-altering event, especially for adolescents and young adults
The Emotional Side of Fertility and Brain Tumor Treatment
Coping With the Emotional Impact of Fertility During Brain Tumor Treatment A brain tumor diagnosis brings with it a whirlwind of
The Critical Role of Oncofertility Teams in Supporting Brain Tumor Patients
A brain tumor diagnosis brings many uncertainties, and for some patients, the ability to have children in the future is a
The Best Immune-Boosting Foods for Brain Tumor Patients
When you’re facing a brain tumor diagnosis, maintaining a strong immune system is essential for your overall health and recovery. Treatments
The Best Diet for Brain Tumor Patients: What to Eat Before, During, and After Treatment
A brain tumor diagnosis can turn your world upside down, and one of the biggest concerns many patients have is nutrition.
The Truth About Sugar, Keto, and Anti-Inflammatory Diets for Brain Tumors
If you’ve been researching nutrition for brain tumors, you’ve likely come across a lot of conflicting advice. Some sources claim that
Managing Brain Tumor Treatment Side Effects with Nutrition
Brain tumor treatments—chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, and medications—can take a toll on the body, leading to challenging side effects like nausea, fatigue,
Nutrition and Brain Tumor Survivorship: What to Eat for Optimal Health
Nutrition plays a pivotal role in supporting your body and brain during and after a brain tumor diagnosis. By focusing on
Fertility and Family Planning After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
A brain tumor diagnosis can profoundly impact many aspects of life, including the ability to have children. For patients and their
My Meningioma Journey: Finding Hope and Purpose During the Pandemic
by Lynn Wynn When the pandemic began in 2020, my life changed in ways I could have never imagined. I was
Caroline Williams’ Journey: A Brain Tumor Diagnosis During Pregnancy
by Caroline Williams In March 2022, Caroline Williams began experiencing symptoms she thought were just “pregnancy brain.” At 17 weeks pregnant,
Understanding Neuropsychiatric Symptoms of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors and their treatments can lead to a range of neuropsychiatric symptoms, also known as neurobehavioral symptoms. These symptoms, which
The Role of Caregivers in Brain Tumor Treatment
Becoming an Empowered Advocate for Your Loved On When someone you care about receives a brain tumor diagnosis, your life can
Unlocking the Future of Brain Tumor Treatment: The Journey of IDH Inhibitors
Imagine a future where brain tumor treatments are not just more effective but also personalized to target specific genetic changes. Thanks
Dr. Michael Lim and Ethan Schonfeld: A Mentor-Mentee Duo Driving Innovation in Brain Tumor Research
In the fight against brain tumors, breakthroughs emerge not only from innovative research but also from the strength of mentorship. This
How I Meet Hope Head On: My Journey with a Meningioma
by Justine LaClair Facing a brain tumor diagnosis is a challenge I never expected, but my story is one of resilience,
How to Organize Your Medical Records After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis (Without Losing Your Mind)
Let’s be real: being diagnosed with a brain tumor is overwhelming enough without having to wrangle a mountain of medical records.
Recognizing PCNSL Symptoms: Why Early Diagnosis and Speaking to Your Doctor Matter
** Sponsored by Ono Pharmaceuticals. This content is not an endorsement from the ABTA.** In her job at a healthcare insurer,
Kelly Sitkin: Accelerating Progress for Brain Tumor Community as ABTA CEO
As Kelly Sitkin steps into the ABTA President & Chief Executive Officer role in February, read on to learn more about
From Tumor to Triumph: How a Meningioma Survivor is Conquering a 28-Mile Challenge with Heart and Hope
If your New Year’s resolution is to increase or improve your physical activity and remain healthy as possible, then don’t miss
Finding Peace and Tranquility After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
A brain tumor diagnosis profoundly affects you, from body and brain to mind and emotions. Hear how one brain tumor survivor
How My Brain Tumor Reinvigorated My Life’s Work | Brain Tumor Survivor Story
by Jarrett Brown On August 5, 2024, my life changed forever. Neurosurgeon Dr. Kenneth Reichert walked into my hospital room and
Insights from the 2024 Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting
The Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting is the largest gathering of experts who study and treat brain tumors. This year’s
Mindfulness and Exercise: Tools for Brain Tumor Survivorship
Mindfulness and exercise can transform your approach to survivorship by enhancing both mental and physical well-being. These practices are easy to
Top 10 Questions to Ask Your Doctor after a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Hearing the words “brain tumor” can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel unsure about what to ask your doctor. Being
Redefining Survivorship: Thriving from Day One of Your Diagnosis
Being diagnosed with a brain tumor can feel overwhelming, but did you know that you become a survivor the moment you’re
My Journey as a Brain Tumor Survivor: A Decade of Strength and Faith
by Syema Sinclair Being diagnosed with a brain tumor is a life-changing event. For me, it was a journey of fear,
From Fun to Research Power: How Creative Fundraising Drives Brain Tumor Research
Every dollar counts when it comes to brain tumor research, and creative fundraising events can turn fun moments into powerful contributions
My Journey Through the Storm: A New Life After Brain Cancer
by Kelsie Barrie Moving to a new city is supposed to be an adventure, full of promise and possibility. But for
Navigating the First Steps After a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Building a Foundation for Effective Care A brain tumor diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but taking intentional first steps will set the
Behind the Scenes of a Brain Tumor Board: How Decisions Are Made
Understanding the Collaborative Effort That Guides Your Treatment Plan When you’re navigating a brain tumor diagnosis, you might hear your doctor
Tips for Caregivers: Managing Holiday Stress While Caring for a Brain Tumor Patient
The holiday season can be a joyful time, but it also brings unique challenges, especially for caregivers of brain tumor patients.
Migraine to Grade II Brain Tumor – Journey of my survival and Ph. D
by Nidhi Rakshikar From Brain Tumor Misdiagnosis to Ph.D.: My Inspiring Journey of Resilience Life has a way of testing our
My Journey with a Craniopharyngioma: Facing Life’s Curveballs with Strength and Faith
Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it. For me, that surprise came in 2018. Up until
Give a Holiday Card That Supports the ABTA
This holiday season, send a card that spreads joy to loved ones and supports a meaningful cause—each purchase contributes to funding
American Brain Tumor Association Names New President & Chief Executive Officer
American Brain Tumor Association Names New President & Chief Executive Officer Proven Leader Spearheaded Organization’s Dynamic Development Team, Volunteer Network CHICAGO
Brain Tumor Funders’ Collaborative Announces New Grant Opportunity to Support Studies on Liquid Biopsy in Primary Brain Tumors
Brain Tumor Funders’ Collaborative Announces New Grant Opportunity to Support Studies on Liquid Biopsy in Primary Brain Tumors The Brain Tumor
Celebrating ABTA President and CEO Ralph DeVitto’s Transformative Leadership
ABTA President and CEO Ralph DeVitto is retiring February 2025, after serving the ABTA for seven years. His legacy highlights remarkable
The American Brain Tumor Association Funds 24 New Projects to Push Brain Cancer Research Forward
Meet the 2024 ABTA grant recipients at the forefront of the brain tumor research community. Donations from individuals to large groups
Strength in Unity: How Friendship and Community Enhance the Brain Tumor Journey
For oligodendroglioma survivor Karl Schmidt and his friends, Alex Budde and Treven Goldsmith, a brain tumor journey transformed their 10+ year
Hope in the Fight: Clinical Trial Patient Stories
**Sponsored by Plus Therapeutics. This content is not an endorsement from the ABTA.** ReSPECT-GBM Patient Story | Jim, Recurrent Glioblastoma Survivor
Imvax: Personalized Immunotherapy for Glioblastoma Patients
** Sponsored by Imvax. This content is not an endorsement from the ABTA.** Imvax is a pioneering clinical biotechnology company developing
When Do Caregivers and Families Need Palliative Care?
Mr. B., an ABTA Connections member, put it best about caregivers on his recent post “Respite for My Caregiver:” My wife
Understanding Immunotherapy and Brain Tumors: A Path Forward
The American Brain Tumor Association recently hosted a webinar focused on Immunotherapy and Brain Tumors, featuring insights from Dr. Peter Fecci,
How Vorasidenib is Already Helping One Survivor
For Tim Abbas and his family, life took an unexpected turn on an April morning in 2022. What started as a
I Feel Lucky
by Ben Stein-Lobovits I had it all—a marriage, a new dog, a house. Then, just a week before my 32nd birthday,
A Journey of Resilience, Gratitude, and Growth
by Charlotte Amerling Life has a way of taking surprising turns, sometimes bringing challenges that transform us in unexpected ways. Nineteen
The Hidden Heroes: Supporting Brain Tumor Caregivers’ Well-being
Caregiving for a loved one with a brain tumor can be an incredibly challenging journey filled with emotions ranging from hope
Matthew Zachary – A 29-Year Brain Cancer Survivor Advocating for Change
Inspiring and resilient, Matthew Zachary is a 29-year brain cancer survivor who has dedicated his life to advocating for young adults
American Brain Tumor Association Awards Over $1 Million in New Grants to Advance Brain Cancer Research
American Brain Tumor Association Awards Over $1 Million in New Grants to Advance Brain Cancer Research Chicago, IL (October 17, 2024)—
Former ESPN Reporter and Fox News Contributor Britt McHenry shares her story of hope and healing: Finding Myself Again
by Britt McHenry As I was wheeled into the operating room at Johns Hopkins on March 4, 2020 for an eight-hour
Be Like Brad
by Tia Mazzone In October 2022, Brad’s life took a drastic turn when he started experiencing intense headaches. Initially, these symptoms
My Journey with a Brain Tumor Diagnosis During the Pandemic
by Lynn Wynn In early 2020, as the world was shutting down, my life took an unexpected turn when I was
Embracing Anticipatory Grief: Our Journey with Glioblastoma
by Debbie Drews Embracing Anticipatory Grief: Our Journey with Glioblastoma In 2022, my husband Tom, my partner of 20 years, was
My Journey as a Caregiver: Supporting My Mom and Sister Through Brain Surgeries
by Bethsabe Gonzales Last year, life threw my family a challenge we never expected. I became a caregiver for both my
My Brain Tumor Journey: From Diagnosis to Personal Growth
by Steve Donie This is the story of my brain tumor journey, a story that began long before I even knew
Embracing Change: A Journey Through Life, Challenges, and Personal Growth
by Kristopher Meyer Embracing Change: A Journey Through Life, Challenges, and Personal Growth At just 17 years old, I was lost,
Strategies for Coping with a Brain Tumor Diagnosis: Enhancing Quality of Life
A brain tumor diagnosis can feel like an overwhelming and life-changing event, triggering a range of emotions such as fear, anxiety,
Living with a Brain Tumor: My Journey as an 18-Year Survivor
by Lisa Annunziata It’s been a long time, but not long enough to forget the moment I heard the words, “You
2 Time Brain Cancer Survivor
by Amy Jones I was first diagnosed in 2010. I had surgery to remove a golf ball size tumor from my
Meet Hope Head On: My Journey with a Meningioma Brain Tumor
Meet Hope Head On: My Journey with a Meningioma Brain Tumor A brain tumor diagnosis can be a life-altering experience, but
Insights from the 2024 ABTA Alumni Research Network Annual Meeting
Each September, the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) hosts the ABTA Alumni Research Network (AARN) Annual Meeting. This meeting brings together
When Kidney Cancer Metastasizes to the Brain
Kidney cancer can sometimes bring an unexpected challenge: brain metastases. While patients may hear about this possibility during treatment, the sheer
2024 National Conference Recap: A Powerful Gathering Inspiring Hope and Community
The American Brain Tumor Association’s 2024 National Conference, September 5-7, was a resounding success, bringing together over 1,300 attendees from across
Clinical Trial for High Grade Gliomas and Diffuse Midline Gliomas
The NIH Clinical Center is the nation’s largest hospital devoted entirely to clinical research. Clinician-investigators translate scientific observations and laboratory discoveries
From Dad to Daughter: Thriving Beyond a Brain Tumor Diagnosis
by Jenny Williams Jenny was just 11 years old when she learned what a brain tumor diagnosis meant and how it
FDA Approves Vorasidenib, a New Treatment for Low-Grade Gliomas
A new treatment called vorasidenib has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for people with low-grade gliomas
Collaboration & Hope: Highlights from the SNO/ASCO Central Nervous System Metastases Conference
The Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO)/American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Central Nervous System (CNS) Metastases Conference brought together leading experts, researchers,
My Life-Changing Experience
by Martin Hospina Diagnosed in 2011, with a meningioma that had to be removed surgically. It was too big for radiation
Surviving Glioblastoma: My Journey from Diagnosis to 12 Years Cancer-Free
by Katie Kaiser Smith In 2012, my life was filled with the joys and challenges of raising a one-year-old baby girl
Jean Arzbaecher, RN, MS
Jean Arzbaecher is an advanced practice nurse working as a clinical nurse specialist in neuro-oncology at the University of Illinois Brain
Join Us to Raise Awareness and Funds for GBM Research
Double your impact toward our $50,000 goal to accelerate high-risk, high-reward research during GBM Awareness Day (7/17).
Uncovering New Approaches to Accelerate GBM Treatment
In recognition of GBM Awareness Day, discover two emerging researchers taking novel approaches to overcome obstacles in treating glioblastoma.
Meet Matthew Zachary: Survivor, Patient Advocate, & 2024 National Conference Keynote
From surviving brain cancer at 21 to leading a social movement, Matthew Zachary has dedicated his career to making the cancer experience suck less for adolescents and young adults (AYA) around the world.
When Melanoma Metastasizes to the Brain
Explore the risks of melanoma metastasizing to the brain and join an upcoming webinar to empower yourself or a loved one.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Provides Easier Option For Some Patients
**Sponsored Content**
Discover how Mayo Clinic is leveraging minimally invasive surgical techniques to maximize tumor resection while making recovery easier for patients.
Sangami Pugazenthi Awarded 2023 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award for ‘Radiation Resistance in Grade 2 Meningiomas’
Sangami Pugazenthi is rewarded for her research exploring biological processes behind radiation resistance in grade 2 meningiomas.
Inaugural Year of Meet Hope Head On Yields $10M Investment in Our Mission
Discover how we’re closer to tripling our investment in research thanks to your support of Meet Hope Head On!
Incorporating Diet & Nutrition in Your Brain Tumor Care
Get tips for optimizing what you eat during brain tumor treatment and in recovery.
Climbing Higher: Janice Armbrust’s Glioblastoma Journey at Pacific Neuroscience Institute
**Sponsored Content**
There’s no stopping Janice Armbrust. Discover how her passion for hiking is helping her thrive with glioblastoma.
American Brain Tumor Association Announces New Board of Directors Officers and Members
Meet the ABTA’s newest Board Members, Laura Aguilar, MD, PhD, and Charles (Chad) Schafer, JD.
Popular Stories
What You Should Know About Clinical Trials for Brain Tumors
**Sponsored Content** Advancements in brain tumor treatments are made possible by patients who volunteer to participate in clinical trials.
Bri’s Journey to Living Life ‘By Design’
Discover how a brain tumor diagnosis led Bri to live a more fulfilling life and how she’s helping others do the same.
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
Popular Stories
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
What You Should Know About Clinical Trials for Brain Tumors
**Sponsored Content** Advancements in brain tumor treatments are made possible by patients who volunteer to participate in clinical trials.
Bri’s Journey to Living Life ‘By Design’
Discover how a brain tumor diagnosis led Bri to live a more fulfilling life and how she’s helping others do the same.
