A Message from the Board President

Dear  Friends:

Brain tumors are receiving unprecedented attention, driven in large part by recent diagnoses of high-profile individuals and the ongoing scientific debate over a possible link between brain tumors and cell phone use.

And yet, this year is no different than others in that approximately 52,000 Americans will hear the words, “You have a brain tumor.”  A brain tumor diagnosis is among the most devastating – for patients and their families.  Approximately 360,000 people in this country are living with a brain tumor. 

Over the past several years, the federal government has offered fewer research grants and, as a result, fewer incentives for the nation’s most talented medical researchers to focus on brain tumors. This situation is compounded by concerns that the current national financial crisis will further threaten momentum in vital areas of brain tumor research.

Now, more than ever, we are relying on the generosity of friends like you, many of whom may have faced a brain tumor diagnosis and countless others who are driven to find a cure.

For more than 35 years, the American Brain Tumor Association has been committed to advancing brain tumor research, providing desperately needed support and information to brain tumor patients and their families, and being a trusted steward of funds raised to advance brain tumor knowledge, understanding and hope. 

• Our historical support of young, talented researchers working to improve brain tumor diagnostics and treatment has contributed to the significant advances in brain tumor care.  Many of these scientists have gone on to mentor new researchers and to lead some of the nation’s most prestigious brain tumor centers. This year, ABTA was able to award $2.6 million in grants and fellowships to young brain tumor investigators.  With your help, ABTA is also able to support large and exciting projects like the 5-year international Gliogene study, which is exploring the role genetics play in tumors.
• Our licensed health care professionals respond daily to requests from patients and families seeking help and support in understanding a diagnosis or treatment, or navigating the complexities of the health care system. This year, ABTA’s licensed health care professionals will offer a full range services and resources to brain tumor patients, their families and the professionals who care for and treat them.

Our reputation as a dependable steward of gifts, as reflected in key nonprofit charitable rankings, is unmatched. Recently, and for the sixth consecutive year, Charity Navigator awarded ABTA a four-star rating for sound fiscal management.  In addition, ABTA has received the highest accreditations and ratings from the Better Business Bureau; is listed among the American Institute of Philanthropy’s “Top Rated Charities,” and as a “Best in America” nonprofit charity by the Independent Charities of America.

As the first national nonprofit organization dedicated solely to promoting brain tumor research while providing patients and their families with diagnosis, treatment and care information and resources, the American Brain Tumor Association depends on your generosity and support. 

Now, more than ever, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those living with brain tumors by making a donation today at http://www.abta.org/index.cfm?contentid=54.  

Sincerely,

Michael D. Sharkey
President
Board of Directors