Imvax Advances a New Approach to Personalized Cancer Immunotherapy
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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
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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
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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.
Robert Johnson
I Meet Hope Head On by sharing my story and being a mentor for the ABTA. The first 10 years after
Pam F., Pennsylvania
I met hope head on by taking care of my dad. My dad was diagnosed with GBM in Dec. 2014. The
Rose V., Wisconsin
I meet hope head on by carrying on my husband Christian’s memory and knowing that his brain cancer journey, though difficult
Jessie S., Illinois
I Meet Hope Head On by advocating for more research breakthroughs and medical innovations that helped my dad survive 40 years
Dawn F., Florida
I Meet Hope Head On by going to the eye doctor for a basic checkup. My older sister is driving me
“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.
A Dose Escalation and Expansion Study of Sonodynamic Therapy With SONALA-001 in Combination With Exablate 4000 Type-2 MR-guided Focused Ultrasound in Patients With Recurrent or Progressive Glioblastoma Multiforme
Featured Clinical Study A Dose Escalation and Expansion Study of Sonodynamic Therapy With SONALA-001 in Combination With Exablate 4000 Type-2 MR-guided
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.
Study of Tirabrutinib (ONO-4059) in Patients With Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PROSPECT Study)
Study of Tirabrutinib (ONO-4059) in Patients With Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma (PROSPECT Study).
American Brain Tumor Association Partners with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada on Low-Grade Glioma Research
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) today announced a new partnership with Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada (BTFC) to accelerate brain tumor research. Through this partnership, BTFC will invest in the ABTA research program to co-fund a research project in Canada, focused on improving resection for low-grade glioma.
American Brain Tumor Association Awards 20 Research Grants to Advance Brain Tumor Science and Discoveries
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) today announced the funding of $821,000 towards 20 new research grants to advance brain tumor science and treatments. With more than $34 million invested in research to date, across all brain tumor types and ages, the ABTA research program plays a critical role in advancing the understanding of brain tumors and building the next generation of brain tumor researchers.
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
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See how a cutting-edge imaging solution by Medexus Pharma is revolutionizing treatment outcomes for GBM patients.
Shanu Khanuja, MPH, BA
Shanu Khanuja currently works within the biotech industry and serves in commercial roles that continue to bring to light the patient
Robin Page, Cancer Patient Advocate
Robin Page is a cancer patient advocate. She currently works as a physical therapist and the director of The Core Life
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
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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
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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.
Lacing Up for the Return of In-Person BT5K’s
Meet three BT5K team leaders from different states who are gearing up to be back in person with their local brain tumor communities. Learn how you can get involved this year.
New Webinar ‘How Metastatic Brain Tumors Affect Your Breast Cancer Care’ Increases Awareness of Brain Metastasis Risks and Treatment Options
An upcoming webinar, presented in partnership with Living Beyond Breast Cancer, builds awareness of brain metastasis risks and treatment options for breast cancer patients.
‘Play For ABTA’ Shines Light on Brain Tumor Awareness
Oregon-based student athlete Amanda Carpenter blended passion with purpose by turning her team’s basketball game into a charitable event to honor her mother who passed away from GBM.
Kaitlin Stitz Awarded 2021 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award for ‘Overcoming Radioresistance in High Risk Pediatric Brain Tumors’
Kaitlin Stitz is awarded for her research on overcoming radioresistance in treatment of high risk pediatric tumors, which she conducted during her ABTA Medical Student Summer Fellowship.
The Show Must Go On…to Support Brain Tumor Research
Despite a series of mishaps, a benefit concert for the ABTA was fated to go on. Read how organizers pulled off a successful event with brain tumor researchers taking the spotlight.
Get Involved and Learn More in 2022
This year, the brain tumor community can count on the ABTA returning to in-person BT5K’s in several U.S. cities; educational and supportive virtual programs; and more ways for you to get informed and involved.
Four Tips for Self-Care in the New Year
Brain cancer survivor and patient advocate Wendy Santana shares four ways she’s learned to handle the highs and lows of settling into a new year.
New and Updated Resources to Empower Your Brain Tumor Journey
New and updated resources from the ABTA can help you navigate brain tumor treatment and care decisions and receive personalized support.
ABTA Mission Officer Receives Public Service Award at 26th SNO Meeting
ABTA Chief Mission Officer Nicole Willmarth, PhD, was recognized for her efforts to advance brain tumor research at the 26th Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting.
Together, Let’s Bring Hope to Light for Brain Tumor Community
The ABTA creates a community that offers hope, support and reassurance that you’re not alone. As our community continues to grow, we know that with your help, there is so much more we can do. Learn how you can act now to help us provide imperative services that reach as many people as possible.
Your Support Advances Brain Tumor Research
Your donations to the ABTA is making a difference in brain tumor research. Read about 18 newly funded brain tumor researchers and learn more about upcoming grant opportunities.
Sharing Our Journey at the ABTA National Conference
In his own words, Rick Franzo shares his brain tumor experience at the ABTA National Conference. Learn why Rick’s greatest takeaway from his journey is hope.
Galvanizing the Next Generation of Brain Tumor Scientists
We look back at the past 10 ABTA Alumni Research Network (AARN) Annual Meetings with the first co-chair, Justin D. Lathia, PhD to see progress, new faces and emerging ideas to advance brain tumor science.
New ABTA Survey Finds Disparities in Care for Metastatic Brain Tumor Patients
The ABTA surveyed patients, caregivers and physicians on the diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases and found disparities in care and communication. Published in the journey Neuro-Oncology Practice, this data highlight the needs of metastatic brain tumor patients.
American Brain Tumor Association Awards 17 Research Grants
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) today announced the funding of $427,000 towards 17 new 2021 research grants to improve brain tumor science and discovery. With more than $33.5 million invested in research to date, across all brain tumor types and ages, the ABTA research program plays a critical role in advancing treatments and ushering in the next generation of brain tumor researchers.
A Caregiver’s Perspective: Being the Best Version of You
**Sponsored Content**
When you think of being a newlywed, what comes to mind? Laughter, love, spending forever with your partner—these are just a few things Amanda thought of. Cancer never crossed her mind.
ABTA SURVEY FINDS DISPARITIES IN CARE OF PATIENTS WITH METASTATIC BRAIN TUMORS
A first-of-its-kind, cross-sectional survey of patients, caregivers and physicians on the diagnosis and treatment of brain metastases, conducted by the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA), as part of its Metastatic Brain Tumor Initiative, revealed disparities in practice patterns and communication around metastatic brain tumors. These data highlight the need to increase accessibility to clinical trials, establish clear standards of care and improve physician-patient communication reflective of the unique needs of patients with brain metastases (BM). The survey results have been published open access in the journal Neuro-Oncology Practice.
MindMatters | August 2021
In this edition, we’re showing you ways to make an impact in the brain tumor community while opening doors for yourself after a brain tumor diagnosis.
More Chemo Please: From Physical Health to Mental Health
Steve Archibald, father, blogger, brain tumor survivor, and ABTA patient mentor, reveals the mental health challenges he experienced after treatment.
This Fall, BT5K Your Way
This fall, you can raise funds for research and patient support programs by registering for our Breakthrough for Brain Tumors 5K Run and Walk.
You Can Help Unlock Brain Tumor Science
Adults and children diagnosed with a primary brain tumor can contribute to research simply by sharing their information, tissue samples, and voice with the Brain Tumor Project.
Gammatile Therapy: A Head STaRT in the Fight Against Brain Tumors
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Read more about Shannan’s story and how she became a GammaTile Patient Navigator.
She’s Embracing Acceptance One Step at a Time
Wendy Santana, survivor, blogger and ABTA volunteer, quiets her inner turmoil and finds peace and acceptance after living with a brain tumor.
Crowdfunding Brain Tumor Research & Patient Programs
Originally a strategy of DIY groups, start-ups and small businesses – crowdfunding now serves as an outlet for those looking to get behind causes and bring along their family, friends, neighbors and coworkers. This has made a big impact for the brain tumor community.
Making Memories a Thousand Miles Apart
This brother-sister duo and their families celebrated six years of survivorship and made memories at the BT5K Your Way virtual race event. Here’s what you can do to get involved.
ABTA Announces the 2020 Lucien Rubinstein Award Recipient
The ABTA 2021 Rubinstein Award is awarded to Edith Yuan for her project, “Effects of Silencing Long Non-Coding RNA on the Malignancy of Glioblastomas.”
Join the ABTA Mission
More than just a job, this is a chance of a lifetime to make an impact in the brain tumor community. The ABTA is hiring mission-driven candidates for fundraising, marketing and patient services roles.
Moving Forward After Diagnosis
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In honor of Brain Tumor Awareness Month, glioblastoma patient, Kate, shares her story of resilience and moving forward.
MindMatters | May 2021
In this edition, we’re showing you ways to make an impact in the brain tumor community while opening doors for yourself after a brain tumor diagnosis.
Mary Ann Laubacher, RN, MN
Mary Ann retired as an advanced practice nurse, with a clinical focus on Alzheimer’s Diseases and dementia. She accompanied her son
Look Ahead: Get Informed & Get Involved
The ABTA provides a variety of virtual educational programs and fundraising events. Check out our 2021 calendar and join us!
Moving Forward in the Face of Challenges
Meet Wendy. She started a blog when she lost her voice after brain tumor surgery to remove an oligodendroglioma. And now, two years later, she’s using her blog to empower the brain tumor community.
Finding Strength Through Shared Experiences & Storytelling
What drives us to share our journey with a brain tumor diagnosis? The answer includes the physical and emotional benefits, and beyond. Dive deeper into this topic with the ABTA Patient Services Team and Steve, a nine-year brain tumor survivor.
Free Virtual Education Meeting for Newly Diagnosed
The ABTA along with Co-Chair, Erin Dunbar, MD, Piedmont Brain Tumor Center, has designed a meeting to empower and equip newly diagnosed patients and caregivers with information and resources to make informed decisions throughout treatment and care.
MindMatters | February 2021
This month’s MindMatters features raw stories that highlight the lives of brain tumor patients, caregivers and researchers touched by the ABTA. Get inspired and join the community striving for change with this unforgiving disease.
ABTA Awards 11 Research Grants to Advance Brain Tumor Research
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) persists in its mission, announcing today the investment of $368,000 towards 11 new research grants to foster innovation in diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors in adults and children.
Unraveling the Complexities of Brain Tumors
Cell by cell, experiment after experiment, these three researchers—past ABTA research grant recipients—are leading their careers in brain tumor research because of the potential impact for brain tumor patients and their families.
Now Accepting Brain Tumor Research Grant Applications
Calling brain tumor scientists and medical professionals. The ABTA is now accepting grant applications for Discovery Grants and Jack and Fay
We Built a Bigger Boat!
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Larry loved his fiery, redheaded wife, Lynn. But when Lynn was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM), he knew things had to change. It was his turn to take care of his wife and build a bigger boat for them both. In recognition of Caregiver Awareness Month, he wants to share his story.
Exploring Potential Treatments for GBM
Morgan Schrock, DVM, PhD’s first career was a veterinarian, but she later found her second career in brain tumor research. As
Breaking Barriers with Drug Combination Therapy
Trang Nguyen, PhD says the blessing and curse of the brain and solving diseases that impact this important organ is the
MindMatters | November 2020
This month’s MindMatters features raw stories that highlight the lives of brain tumor patients, caregivers and researchers touched by the ABTA. Get inspired and join the community striving for change with this unforgiving disease.
Speeding Up Breakthroughs for Brain Tumors
Research is an iterative process, where experiments need time to ensure results are accurate. But Stephanie Seidlits, PhD is heading up