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,
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
ASCO 2019: The Importance of Brain Tumor Tissue Testing
With the molecular make-up of cancer cells emerging as a new pathway to combat cancer, tumor tissue testing will become critical
ASCO 2019: Larotrectinib Continues to Show Promise in Treating Brain Cancer
Larotrectinib, a targeted therapy, continues to show promise in treating patients with brain cancer in the latest clinical research. Data underscores
ASCO 2019: SurVaxM with Standard Therapy in Newly Diagnosed Glioblastoma: Phase II Trial Update
SurVaxM is a cancer immunotherapy vaccine (boosts the body’s own immune system to fight cancer cells) designed to target and attack
ASCO 2019: Barriers to Accrual and Enrollment in Brain Tumor Trials
A major impediment to improving brain tumor outcomes is poor clinical trial accrual. In fact, only 20 percent of neuro-oncology patients
ASCO 2019: 90 Percent of Cancer Patients and Caregivers Surprised at Metastatic Brain Tumor Diagnosis
Preliminary Results of ABTA Metastatic Brain Tumor Initiative Patient and Caregiver Survey Presented at the American Society Clinical Oncology Annual Meeting
ASCO 2019: Moving Beyond Tumor Type to Tumor Agnostic Treatment
Until recently, drug discovery has traditionally focused on the development of a therapy to treat a specific tumor type based on
Brain Tumor Research News from 2019 American Society for Clinical Oncology Meeting
The American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting is one of the largest oncology meetings attracting more than 33,000 researchers
Medicare Response Instruction
On Thursday, June 20, six members of the ABTA staff delivered oral statements to Medicare in regard to the issue outlined
May MindMatters
ABTA PARTNERS WITH NATIONAL CANCER INSTITUTE TO ACCELERATE RARE BRAIN TUMOR RESEARCH Brain and central nervous system (CNS) tumor diagnoses only
ABTA Partners with National Cancer Institute to Accelerate Rare Brain Tumor Treatment and Research
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) is partnering with the National Cancer Institute’s NCI-CONNECT program to advance the understanding of rare
Sharon Mercer: Meeting the Challenges of Brain Cancer as a Devoted Caregiver
Travel was always a part of Sharon Mercer’s life ever since she was kid. She grew up as a military brat
Ask the Experts – Connections Q&A
In honor of Brain Tumor Awareness Month, we are hosting a Q&A session on our online support community, Connections. Dr. Stefania
April MindMatters
ABTA PARTNERS WITH THE FDA AND BRAIN TUMOR COMMUNITY TO EVALUATE AND ADVANCE CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT OF BRAIN METASTASES TREATMENTS Approximately 200,000
ABTA Reports the Latest Brain Cancer Research from the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting
The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) held its 2019 Annual Meeting, March 29 – April 3, 2019 in Atlanta. The
Learn about the Latest Brain Tumor Treatment Advancements Alongside Patients and Caregivers from Across the U.S.; Attend the ABTA National Conference
Registration is now open for American Brain Tumor Association 2019 National Conference. Are you ready to harness the benefits of
ABTA Partners with FDA and Brain Tumor Community to Evaluate and Advance Clinical Development of Brain Metastases Treatments
With its Metastatic Brain Tumor Initiative, the American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) is taking the lead to ensure patients diagnosed with
Paul McDowell: Doing the Things You Love is Good Therapy
Meet Paul McDowell of Cleveland, Ohio. It has been 23 years since his last treatment for two brain tumors, including a
March MindMatters
KIM LEARY: FULL-TIME ONCOLOGY NURSE COPES WITH LOW GRADE GLIOMA After Kim Leary returned to nursing following treatment from a grade
ABTA Engages with 100 International Leaders in the Brain Tumor Community
New brain tumor alliance charts a course for new treatments and improved survival for patients. The American Brain Tumor Association participated
Amy’s Walk — Healing Step by Step
Ashlie Thornbury likes scary movies, eating pizzas with fancy toppings, planning Halloween parties and giving love to her two little girls,
Kim Leary: Oncology Nurse Copes with Low Grade Glioma
Kim Leary is a full-time oncology nurse, brain tumor survivor, and regular viewer of ABTA’s monthly educational webinars. We recently asked
February MindMatters
FOUR NEW GRANTS TO SUPPORT IMMUNOTHERAPY RESEARCH The Brain Tumor Funders Collaborative (BTFC) is a group of funders of brain tumor
Larry Berg: There’s much more to be accomplished
Please tell us about yourself. I am Larry Berg and am Chief Executive Officer of Smart Precision Marketing & Consulting. I
Brain Tumor Funders Collaborative Awards 4 New Grants To Support Immunotherapy Research for Brain Tumors
The Brain Tumor Funders Collaborative (BTFC) is a group of funders of brain tumor research, including the American Brain Tumor Association.
Charitable Shopping for a Cure
Calling all artisans! Do you want to increase sales and awareness of your products and benefit the ABTA? We’re growing our
MindMatters | January 2019
The American Brain Tumor Association has awarded the 2018 Lucien Rubinstein Award to Yekaterina (Katie) Shpanskaya for her project, “Radiomic Discovery
2018 Rubinstein Award
The American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) has awarded the 2018 Lucien Rubinstein Award to Yekaterina (Katie) Shpanskaya for her project, “Radiomic
ABTA Selects the 2018 Lucien Rubinstein Award Recipient
The American Brain Tumor Association has awarded the 2018 Lucien Rubinstein Award to Yekaterina (Katie) Shpanskaya. Katie is a 2018 ABTA
MindMatters | December 2018
Matthew Erickson was diagnosed with a high grade glioma during an ultrasound before birth, but he has defied the odds by his survival.
Research Staff at SNO
Staff from the American Brain Tumor Association attended the 2018 Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting in New Orleans, LA in
6th Annual Cater to the Cure
In 2013, American Brain Tumor Association Board of Directors member and BT5K Chicago runner Brandon Starkoff and his wife, Amy, stepped
November MindMatters
#GivingTuesday is Tomorrow This #GivingTuesday, the American Brain Tumor Association wants you to join us and the rest of the brain tumor
Fighting for the Cause
Max Padrid is proud to be a part of the American Brain Tumor Association team. Whether that means training for his
Brain Metastasis: A Documentary
While “Brain Metastasis: A Documentary” is not going to compete with any blockbusters at the box office, for those experiencing this medical
From Junior Researcher to Renowned Neurosurgeon
Dr. Linda Liau’s credentials are many: Chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA,
