It’s spring – a time to rejuvenate, refresh and take action. Learn how one runner’s glioblastoma diagnosis became the catalyst for resilience, hope and perseverance.
A Shocking Wake-Up Call
Nicole Schalmo’s brain tumor journey began with a shocking wake-up call—literally. With no prior symptoms, she woke up inside an MRI machine after experiencing a seizure while sleeping. What followed was a whirlwind experience, including brain surgery, a glioblastoma diagnosis, and an uncertain future, particularly as she was fulfilling her dream of starring in a feature film as the leading actor.
“It’s surreal to re-watch the movie and think ‘Wow, I was in the middle of chemo when we filmed that scene,’” said Nicole.
Brain Tumor Diagnosis Brings Running into Focus
Nicole vividly remembers the moment her doctor identified her tumor as a glioblastoma. She had no idea what glioblastoma meant at the time, but she knew instinctively that she needed to act. Her first step was connecting with the ABTA, a resource that would later become a vital part of her journey.
“The diagnosis forced me to pause and reassess what my priorities were. I was newly engaged, almost done filming a feature film as its lead, and then I needed to focus on what I could control, because I knew I wasn’t going to stop fighting,” said Nicole.
Following her diagnosis and in the middle of treatment, she married her husband and participated in her first BT5K event, forming “Team Titanium Cranium.” Running had always been Nicole’s passion, but after her brain tumor diagnosis, it was her way of reclaiming control over her body and future. Determined to push forward, she trained for the New York City Half Marathon. When the event was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, she ran the distance on her own.
Finding Strength in the Brain Tumor Community
Nicole found a community of survivors, caregivers and advocates who inspired her to keep moving—both physically and emotionally. Even when injury prevented her from running a full marathon for the ABTA, she still showed up to support her teammates, proving that taking action isn’t always about running the race itself, but also about uplifting others along the way.
Taking the First Steps
Whether you are navigating a brain tumor or seeking to support your physical, emotional or mental health—as a patient, caregiver or family member—Nicole offers this advice: Don’t overthink it. Just take the first step.
“Start with walking,” she says. “A walk can turn into a jog, and a jog can turn into a run. But it’s not about running—it’s about movement, whatever that looks like for you. Maybe it’s swimming, biking, or simply being present with loved ones. Your version of ‘springing into action’ will be uniquely yours.”
“I also believe that having hope not only provides better quality of life but may provide priceless time with loved ones. Team ABTA is where I feel and see that hope in action,” reflects Nicole.
Nicole’s journey reminds us that while a brain tumor diagnosis may change your life, it doesn’t have to define it. With each step—big or small—the power to take control, find joy, and support others along the way is within all of us.
Join Nicole on Team ABTA
Team ABTA is a dedicated group of individuals who go the extra mile to fuel brain tumor research and patient support programs. Whether it’s their first run, cycle, or swim race, or they’re seasoned endurance athletes, every member shares a common mission: to make a difference, one stride, pedal or stroke at a time. They’re raising awareness, funding hope, and moving us closer to a cure.
Some upcoming events include:
- Flying Pig Marathon, May 4 in Cincinnati, OH
- Life Time Chicago Half Marathon, September 28 in Chicago, IL
If you are interested in joining Team ABTA, whether as a beginner runner or an avid marathoner, learn more here!
