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.
Celebrating ABTA President and CEO Ralph A. DeVitto’s Transformative Leadership
ABTA President and CEO Ralph A. DeVitto is retiring next February, after serving the ABTA for seven years. His legacy highlights
The American Brain Tumor Association Funds 24 New Projects to Push Brain Cancer Research Forward
Meet the 2024 ABTA grant recipients at the frontier of the brain tumor research community. Donations from individuals to large groups
Strength in Unity: How Friendship and Community Enhance the Brain Tumor Journey
Where resilience and community converge, one journey broadens our understanding of hope and friendship. Here are some numbers to consider as
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
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
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,
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.
Why You Should Make a Will and How to Get Started for Free
Are you among the 70% of Americans who haven’t made a will yet? There’s good news… it’s a lot easier than you may think.
The Importance of Advocacy and Support in AYA Cancer Care
After surviving brain cancer at a young age, Savannah Mason is highlighting the pressing need for tailored advocacy and support resources for AYA cancer patients.
Traveling National Parks After a GBM Diagnosis
After being cleared to hike again after GBM surgery, Darrell and Andrea are back on their quest to see every national park in the country and make the most of each day.
Momentum is Building for Meet Hope Head On!
We’re in the midst of Brain Tumor Awareness Month (BTAM) and hope you’re as inspired as we are by the outpouring
Cycling Ahead for Brain Tumor Breakthroughs
For Nicholas “Nick” Cho, an ABTA summer fellowship solidified his interest in becoming a physician-scientist in neuroradiology. Now on track to
Register Now for the Largest Patient and Caregiver Brain Tumor Conference
Registration is now open for the largest educational conference for brain tumor patients and caregivers! Join us Thursday, September 5 –
A Young Adult’s Journey Through Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Recovery: Understanding the Adolescent and Young Adult Patient Experience
This May, the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS) published a groundbreaking report funded by the American Brain
Inspiring Hope: Joe’s Story As A Glioblastoma Survivor
**Sponsored Content**
After facing a GBM recurrence just months after initial treatment, GBM Survivor Joe and his wife Tammy are traveling the country tumor free 18 months after receiving an implantable device that delivers targeted radiation,
Exploring New Frontiers: Y-90 Internal Radiation Trial for Recurrent Glioblastoma
**Sponsored Content**
Learn about an active clinical trial studying Y-90, an internal radiation treatment that aims to directly target brain cancer while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Annual SNO Meeting Fosters Unprecedented Collaboration
Read our top takeaways from the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting, the world’s largest gathering of neuro-oncology experts.
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!
Clinical Trial Testing Effectiveness of Blood Cancer Drug in Recurrent Glioblastoma
**Sponsored Content**
Learn more about Biodexa’s Phase 1 clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of an approved blood cancer drug in liquid form to treat recurrent glioblastoma (GBM).
Your Support Turns Hope Into Action
Join us in our mission to accelerate research breakthroughs and fuel hope for brain tumor patients and families.
Six Tips From My Experience As a Caregiver
For National Family Caregivers Month, Robin Ferrill shares tips from her experience embracing the role after her husband’s GBM diagnosis in 2022.
Top Brain Tumor News & Milestones for 2023
From groundbreaking research to new collaborations at a federal level, discover the top three brain tumor news highlights and milestones for the year.
Brain Tumor Survivor Shares Top Three National Conference Takeaways
After losing her husband to GBM in 2022 and receiving her own diagnosis, survivor Beth Kassab didn’t know what to expect attending the largest brain tumor conference in Chicago. Read Beth’s top takeaways:
Don & Gail Segal Awarded Top Honor for Their Life-long Commitment to the ABTA
Discover how one couple’s efforts to make a difference after their young son was diagnosed with a brain tumor led to their vital role in establishing the ABTA and ensuring its ongoing success.
Sally Walker Honored for Dedication to Daughter’s Legacy, Advancing Research
After losing her daughter Kristi to GBM in 2011, Sally set out to carry on her daughter’s legacy of living life to the fullest and supporting brain tumor research.
Imvax Advances a New Approach to Personalized Cancer Immunotherapy
**Sponsored Content**
Learn more about Imvax’s Phase 2b trial studying a personalized, whole tumor-derived immunotherapy in newly diagnosed patients with glioblastoma.
Meet ABTA’s Eight Newest Summer Research Fellows
The ABTA is proud to announce eight recipients of the Medical Student Summer Fellowship grants.
Join a Brain Tumor 5k Run & Walk Near You this Fall
You can make a difference and raise critical funds for research by joining a Breakthrough for Brain Tumors 5k Run & Walk event.
Three Reasons Acoustic Neuroma Patients Need a Multidisciplinary Care Team
**Sponsored Content**
An acoustic neuroma diagnosis comes with complex treatment decisions. Read why a multidisciplinary care team is crucial for your long-term recovery.
All in the Family: Raising Awareness and Support for GBM Research
Join us July 19 to raise $50K for GBM research.
Your Long-Time Brain Tumor Champion Ups Its Game in Washington
With the reigniting of the White House’s Cancer Moonshot Initiative, the ABTA recently joined the Brain Cancers Forum in Washington, D.C., to discuss opportunities in discovering treatments for brain cancers, including GBM.
Author, Podcaster Bryan Bishop Named 2023 National Conference Keynote Speaker
Author, podcaster, and brain tumor survivor Bryan Bishop will take the stage as keynote of the 2023 ABTA National Conference. Discover how humor has carried Bryan through his 14-year battle.
First Targeted Therapy for Glioma Headed for FDA Approval
A first-in-class targeted therapy for low-grade glioma could gain FDA approval as early as spring 2024. Here are three things you should know about the emerging drug “vorasidenib.”
Coping with a GBM Diagnosis: Developing a Routine
**Sponsored Content**
After processing the initial shock of her GBM diagnosis at 36, Jeanneane M. created a “coping routine” that’s helped her get through difficult days and hold onto hope for her future.
“Doing Hard Things” Community Bands Together to Drive Kelli McLaughlin’s Legacy Forward
Family and friends of Kelli McLaughlin are doing the hardest things: turning their grief into action to carry on Kelli’s legacy and vision of a future without brain tumors.
Together, Let’s Meet Hope Head On
Discover how you can play a role in the ABTA’s five-year campaign “Meet Hope Head On.”
Taking Control of Your Brain Metastases Care
Join a free, half-day virtual meeting for patients and families dealing with brain metastases, led by Priya Kumthekar, MD, Director of the Brain Metastases Program at Northwestern University.
2023 ABTA National Conference Returns To Chicago
Register now for the nation’s largest patient-centric brain tumor conference, returning to Chicago and online this September.
Neurosurgeon Brings One-of-a-Kind Imaging Technology to Puerto Rico to Advance Brain Tumor Surgery
**Sponsored Content** Meet one neurosurgeon who hopes to transform brain tumor care by bringing state-of-the-art technology to his homeland of Puerto Rico.
Unite & Make a Difference at a BT5K
Gather friends and family to raise awareness and critical funds at a BT5K Run & Walk event near you.
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.
Still Pursuing Answers
ABTA Founder Susan Kramer reflects on the last 50 years and her unrelenting pursuit toward finding a cure.
From One to Many
We need 500 people to donate or share their story for the ABTA’s first Day of Giving during Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Are you in?
Igniting Hope at the National Conference
See what’s igniting hope at the nation’s largest brain tumor conference and how you can get involved.
David Hou Awarded 2022 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award for ‘B Cell Vaccine Promotes Anti-Glioma Immunity Through Modulating CD8+ T Cells’
David Hou is awarded for his research on leveraging a B cell vaccine to improve immunotherapy treatment for GBM.
A Targeted Solution in Glioblastoma Treatment
**Sponsored Content**
For adult patients with recurrent GBM, a new clinical trial may offer access to emerging solutions and novel therapies unavailable elsewhere.
American Brain Tumor Association Announces New Board of Directors Chair, Officers and Member
Meet the newly-appointed ABTA Board Chair and Member and discover what they’re hopeful for in their new roles.
Research Update: DCVax-L Phase 3 Clinical Trial Data Published for GBM
On November 17, 2022, results from a phase 3 trial of DCVax-L, an immunotherapy for glioblastoma patients, were published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Oncology.
Answering the Top Three CareLine Questions
Vince Rock answers the top questions he receives from patients and caregivers who call the ABTA CareLine.
Processing Our Brain Cancer Journey Through Song
In his own words, caregiver and musician Scott Ingersoll shares how he used music to channel his wife’s journey battling astrocytoma.
2023: We’re Better Together
As we welcome 2023, it’s a time to embrace the new year and new ways to get involved and make an impact in the brain tumor community.
Harnessing Hope for Treatment Breakthroughs
Meet two researchers on opposite ends of the globe dedicated to transforming the future of brain tumor treatments.
Five Tips to Enhance Caregiver Well-being
November is National Family Caregivers Month. Jamie Jacobs, PhD, of Massachusetts General Hospital shares five tips to enhance caregiver well-being.
Clinical Advances in GBM
**Sponsored Content**
See how a cutting-edge imaging solution by Medexus Pharma is revolutionizing treatment outcomes for GBM patients.
Justin’s Walk Celebrates 25 Years
A small Virginia community celebrates 25 years of coming together for Justin Porter, a six-year-old who passed away from GBM.
Top Takeaways from the 2022 National Conference
From innovations in brain surgery to tips for living your best life, get the top takeaways from the 2022 National Conference.
Inspiring Hope: Meet the 2022 ABTA Award Recipients
Meet the recipients of the ABTA’s highest honors and learn how they’re making a difference.
This Fall, Get Involved Through A BT5K
This fall, join the brain tumor community for a BT5K Run & Walk and raise crucial funds for research!
Pacific Neuroscience Institute’s Top Brain Surgeons Attract Patients from Around the World
**Sponsored Content**
Chris traveled across the country for a minimally invasive “keyhole” procedure to remove his large meningioma. Read why he chose Dr. Daniel Kelly at Pacific Neuroscience Institute (PNI) for his brain surgery.
Living with Brain Metastases from Lung Cancer
Did you know 25% of lung cancer patients develop brain metastases? Get a look at the facts ahead of Lung Cancer Awareness Month.
Support Research Breakthroughs on GBM Awareness Day
You probably already know that GBM is a vicious, deadly disease. The question we all have is, what are we going to do about it? As we approach the fourth annual GBM Awareness Day on July 20, 2022, we’re asking you to get involved.
Behind the Scenes: Q&A with National Conference Co-Chairs
Go behind the scenes of the nation’s largest brain tumor conference and hear why the co-chairs say you don’t want to miss this year’s event, Sept. 9-10!
Highlights and Hope for the Future of GBM Research
Dr. Duane Mitchell, MD, PhD, Univ. of Florida, shares four highlights in recent GBM research and what he’s hopeful for in the future.
Beyond Par: 25 Years of Celebrating Paul Fabbri’s Legacy & Supporting Brain Tumor Research
What started as a small golf outing to remember a beloved friend lost to brain cancer has blossomed into 25 years of a shining legacy and more than $660,000 for crucial brain tumor research.
From Testing to Treatment: What to Know About Targeted Therapies
**Sponsored Content**
Referred to as the “center point of progress in modern oncology,” biomarker testing opens up a world of targeted therapies that can guide an oncology treatment plan and turn more patients into survivors.
What You Should Know from AACR
Read three takeaways from the American Association for Cancer Research annual meeting in April.
Beyond the Odds: Mary’s Story Surviving Glioblastoma
**Sponsored Content**
See how Mary is defying the odds years after her initial glioblastoma diagnosis and how she found peace of mind through GammaTile Therapy, a one-time, targeted radiation treatment.
Learn | Engage | Connect: Register for 2022 Conference
Engage with your community and learn about the latest treatment advances at the ABTA National Conference, September 9-10.
Five Things to Do If You or a Loved One is Diagnosed with a Brain Tumor
Dr. Gabriel Zada, a leading neurosurgeon at USC, shares five things you can do after receiving a brain tumor diagnosis.
Living with GBM and Adventure
**Sponsored Content**
After Craig was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in May of 2018, he decided he would not let it stop his active lifestyle. Through patience and some small adjustments, he continues to do the activities he loves.
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.
Incorporating Diet & Nutrition in Your Brain Tumor Care
Get tips for optimizing what you eat during brain tumor treatment and in recovery.
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.
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.
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!
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.
Popular Stories
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!
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.
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.
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
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.
