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
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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
MindMatters | October 2020
ABTA hosted a trifecta of virtual community events, conferences and meetings in October to bring the latest in brain tumor treatment, care and research to the brain tumor community. Check out these stories about the ABTA National Conference, AARN 9th Annual Meeting and the first-ever BT5K Your Way virtual event.
Virtual Conference Connects Beyond the Screen
Even a pandemic couldn’t keep the brain tumor community from connecting and finding answers at the ABTA National Conference. This year,
United in Our Mission: BT5K Your Way
Whether you walk, bike, rollerblade or push a stroller, anyone, anywhere can BT5K Your Way. Get inspired by three participants joining our nationwide event in creative and unique ways that celebrate their family, friends and loved ones impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis.
AARN Annual Meeting Tackles Emerging Brain Tumor Treatment Strategies
Nearly 60 researchers from 22 states and three countries, including Canada, Spain and as far as Australia, joined the virtual American
MindMatters | August 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
Maria Menounos Presents Keynote at 2020 ABTA National Conference
Maria Menounos, Emmy® Award-winning journalist, author and actress, joins the 2020 ABTA National Conference as Keynote Speaker to share her journey going from caregiver to brain tumor patient to survivor.
ABTA Announces Recipient of the Joel A. Gingras Award
We are pleased to announce Priscilla Brastianos, MD as the recipient of the ABTA Joel A. Gingras Award for her commitment to the ABTA’s mission through her groundbreaking work and leadership in brain metastasis research. Dr. Brastianos will be awarded the ABTA’s highest honor at the 2020 ABTA National Conference.
How Will You BT5K Your Way?
Whether you walk, bike, rollerblade or push a stroller, anyone, anywhere can BT5K Your Way. Get inspired by three participants joining our nationwide event in creative and unique ways that celebrate their family, friends and loved ones impacted by a brain tumor diagnosis.
Walking 1,000+ Miles for His Best Friend
This is Daniel and Craig. They became best friends in high school and remained steadfast buddies through the years. Neither distance
Accepting the Diagnosis and Defying the Prognosis
Kim and Jodi came together after their respective loved ones were impacted by a glioblastoma diagnosis. They found strength and healing
Liz’s Unexpected Brain Tumor Journey
This year, the BT5K Your Way run/walk event holds greater sentiment for Elizabeth and her mom, Heather. This past December, Elizabeth
STELLAR Study: Phase 3 Clinical Trial to Evaluate Eflornithine
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If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with recurrent Anaplastic Astrocytoma, the STELLAR Study may be an option. It is a Phase 3 clinical trial currently enrolling in select sites across North America and Western Europe. To learn more please visit www.stellarstudy.com.
Rock for Research in Recognition of GBM Awareness Day
Wednesday, July 22 is the second annual GBM Awareness Day. Join us for the ABTA’s first online concert Rock for Research, and rally together for those impacted by a glioblastoma diagnosis and GBM research.
Honoring a Rock Legend, Every Month
Rush band fan Scott was devastated to learn that his hero, Neil Peart, passed away from a glioblastoma earlier this year. Fueled by the news, he decided to make a difference in memory of the late drummer and lyricist.
ABTA National Conference Expands Access to Emerging Science and Treatment Information
The largest brain tumor educational meeting is going virtual and offering a free live webcast, Friday, Sept. 11 and Saturday, Sept 12, 10 AM – 5 PM CT. Sessions cover topics for newly diagnosed, survivors and caregivers.
Brain Tumor Community Unites with BT5K Your Way
Come together, share experiences and amplify support for brain tumor research and the ABTA at the BT5K Your Way. New to our 5K events, participants will be able to connect with their team and others in the brain tumor community through a special mobile app.
ABTA Awards Grants to Invest in Future Researchers
The ABTA announces six recipients of our Medical Student Summer Fellowship grants. We’re investing in medical students to seed the field with future brain tumor physician-scientists.
Patient Navigation: Uncovering the Unknown in Brain Tumor Management
Navigate the complexities of a brain tumor diagnosis and get answers on treatment options, insurance issues and more, through patient navigation services.
New Brain Tumor Treatment Provides a Head STaRT in the Fight Against Brain Tumors
**Sponsored Content** GammaTile Therapy can eliminate the need for traditional repeat radiation treatments so patients with brain tumors can focus on what matters most—healing and getting back to their daily lives sooner. Learn more about GammaTile Therapy and what patients and physicians have to say about it.
MindMatters | July 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
A Statement of Unity
American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) today announced a new partnership with the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation (SBTF) to accelerate brain tumor research. Through this partnership, the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation will invest $50,000 in the ABTA research program to fund one glioblastoma immunotherapy research project.
BT5K Your Way: Flexible Virtual Fundraising
The ABTA’s largest nationwide fundraiser, Breakthrough for Brain Tumors 5K (BT5K) Run & Walk events, are moving to more flexible events, where anyone, anywhere can participate.
Emergency Cash Assistance for Brain Tumor Patients
ABTA’s partner, the Sontag Foundation, has established the COVID-19 Emergency Patient Assistance Fund, which provides financial support to patients affected with a brain tumor diagnosis or their caregivers who have been impacted by COVID-19. Applications are now being accepted.
Brain Tumor Recurrence During COVID-19
The sudden emergency of COVID-19 and a brain tumor recurrence has dramatically impacted Brandon Starkoff, ABTA advocate, volunteer and Board of Director member. Learn how he’s managing his second diagnosis during a pandemic.
MindMatters | June 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
MindMatters | May 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
Are You “All In” for Brain Tumor Awareness?
Brain Tumor Awareness Month not only highlights the complex, evolving needs of patients, survivors and caregivers, but also showcases the impact of an unprecedented global pandemic on the ABTA. Learn more about how you can get “All in for ABTA.”
Brain Tumor Scientist is “All in for ABTA”
Albert Lai, MD, PhD is leading a UCLA research lab for primary brain tumors, including high grade gliomas and glioblastoma. But he credits the launch of his career with the ABTA. Learn how your donations can help jumpstart a brain tumor researcher’s career.
ABTA Expands COVID-19 Resources
Access up-to-date information and resources about COVID-19 and its impact on the brain tumor community. Attend educational webinars and download FAQs
Know Your Worth: Advocate
**Sponsored Content** Although Lynn’s journey with glioblastoma (GBM) has not been easy, nor has her life gone unchanged, she has come to appreciate the importance of what she has. In honor of Brain Tumor Awareness Month, Lynn wants to share her story with you.
A Message from Ralph DeVitto, ABTA President & CEO
Dear Friends, Our brain tumor community is no stranger to navigating through the difficulties and uncertainty of life. And now, with
Thank You, Linda
In March, the American Brain Tumor Association and the brain tumor community as a whole lost an early visionary. Please join us in paying tribute to ABTA co-founder, Linda Gene Goldstein.
COVID-19 and the Brain Tumor Community: Webinar Now Available
The ABTA and Dr. Milan Chheda addressed your concerns and questions about COVID-19 and its impact on the brain tumor community.
Gaining Purpose Through Volunteering
In recognition of National Volunteer Week, April 19-25, we spotlight how the ABTA National Volunteer Program gains through giving.
Grappling with Brain Tumors
Competitors Byron and Jon spar for brain cancer, kicking off a relationship between Tap Cancer Out and ABTA in support of brain tumor research.
MindMatters | April 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
Fundraise Your Way Program Lets You Do It Your Way
Fundraise Your Way to Support Brain Tumor Research and Programs A snowmobile race. Music festivals. Bowling tournaments. Weddings. Graduations. What do
Striking Out Brain Tumors
When Jim was recovering from brain surgery, the hospital staff brought in a makeshift bowling alley into his room. It was
Making Waves for Brain Tumor Research
Kessler Cruise for a Cure event honors Gavin for his love of boating, spending time with loved ones and aiming for
In Lieu of Presents
Tuxes, dresses, flowers, and a tall, pretty cake. It’s a wedding between Joey and Haley who started their relationship five years
ABTA Announces 2019 Lucien Rubinstein Award Recipient
The American Brain Tumor Association has awarded the 2019 Rubinstein Award to Nyle Almeida for his project, “Synaptogenic Glioma Cell Enrichment
American Brain Tumor Association and Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation Announce Partnership to Accelerate Brain Tumor Research
American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) today announced a new partnership with the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation (SBTF) to accelerate brain tumor research. Through this partnership, the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foundation will invest $50,000 in the ABTA research program to fund one glioblastoma immunotherapy research project.
MindMatters | March 2020
Learn how these ABTA fundraising families have creatively and passionately supported brain tumor research and patient programs through the Fundraise Your Way program.
Studying Brain Tumors in Dogs to Help Human Patients
Morgan Schrock, DVM, PhD’s first career was a veterinarian, but she later found her life-long love in brain tumor research. As
Resolve to Get Involved in 2020
In 2020, pledge to elevate your involvement in the brain tumor community and the ABTA. Take a peek at our 2020
October MindMatters
LEARNING, LISTENING AND ‘LEANING IN’ AT THE ABTA 2019 NATIONAL CONFERENCE Nearly 600 patients, survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, researchers, and industry
ABTA Rally Capitol Hill for Brain Tumor Research
On September 19, the American Brain Tumor Association was one of several leading health organizations on Capitol Hill for AACR Rally
Learning, Listening and ‘Leaning in’ at the ABTA 2019 National Conference
Nearly 600 patients, survivors, caregivers, medical professionals, researchers, and industry representatives participated in the American Brain Tumor Association 2019 National Conference
Giving Back to Others After Finding Support and Friendship
Michelle Strubeck found a life-long friendship with Caroline Lenher when their loved ones were impacted by a brain tumor. With this
Turning Loss into Hope for Children Battling Brain Cancer
Lisa Gaa always had a profound love of children. As a nurse, she dedicated her life to caring for babies in
August MindMatters
SHARING THE LIVED EXPERIENCE AT THE ABTA REGIONAL PATIENT & FAMILY MEETINGS The American Brain Tumor Association Regional Patient & Family
Finding a New Normal After Grief
Retired art teacher and coach, Rob Rummel, turned his grief and sorrow into finding a new normal, after the passing of
Guided by Faith: Healing and Helping Others with a Brain Tumor
This is Kay and John Potter. Kay was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in February 2018. Read our interview with Kay and
Sharing the Lived Experience at the ABTA Regional Patient and Family Meetings
The American Brain Tumor Association Regional Patient and Family Meetings provide brain tumor patients and loved ones the opportunity to network,
6 Friends Cycle Their Way to Raising over $20,000 for Brain Tumor Research
Team GuestDriver, comprised of team members Mike Grunnet, Doug Grunnet, Bill Easom, Chris Shepard, Craig Petersen, and Pat O’Connor all participated
July MindMatters – A Healthy Happy You
PROFILE: PHOTOGRAPHY IS MY THERAPY After a near fatal diagnosis of brain cancer, Lane Billings had to relearn everything after surgery,
Ryan’s Story: A Shining Light Extinguished
Ryan J. Hanrahan had a phenomenal childhood. Family, friendships, and sports were the cornerstones of Ryan’s life. He was a gifted
Yoga Therapy Supports the Body, Mind and Spirit for Brain Tumor Patients and Their Caregivers
Meet Raquel Jex Forsgren. She started her career as a nuclear scientist and then immersed herself in pharmaceutical drug development, because
What Are You Eating? Diet and Nutrition for Brain Tumor Patients and Caregivers
The diagnosis of a brain tumor can change your relationship with nutrition, food and eating, because of the way your body
How Do I Start an Exercise Routine?
Top Three Benefits of Physical Activity for Those Living with a Brain Tumor The American Brain Tumor Association’s resource, “Living with
Photography is My Therapy
After leaving the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles and the film industry for the tranquility of Santa Fe, where she
June MindMatters – ASCO
WELCOME TO THE MINDMATTERS ASCO EDITION In 2019, it is estimated that 86,970 new cases of primary malignant and non-malignant brain
Brain Tumors in the United States
According to the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS), in 2019, it is estimated that 86,970 new cases
