March 2024 News
Discover how YOU are making a difference in our mission to end brain tumors AND…
…meet the student-scientist awarded for her research on radio-resistance in meningioma; get empowered with diet and nutrition tips; explore the risks of melanoma and brain mets; see how doctors are leveraging minimally invasive surgery; and meet a survivor who channels her passion for hiking to thrive with glioblastoma.
March 2024 News
Discover how YOU are making a difference in our mission to end brain tumors AND…
…meet the student-scientist awarded for her research on radio-resistance in meningioma; get empowered with diet and nutrition tips; explore the risks of melanoma and brain mets; see how doctors are leveraging minimally invasive surgery; and meet a survivor who channels her passion for hiking to thrive with glioblastoma.
Join Us to Raise Awareness and Funds for GBM Research
Double your impact toward our $50,000 goal to accelerate high-risk, high-reward research during GBM Awareness Day (7/17).
Uncovering New Approaches to Accelerate GBM Treatment
In recognition of GBM Awareness Day, discover two emerging researchers taking novel approaches to overcome obstacles in treating glioblastoma.
Meet Matthew Zachary: Survivor, Patient Advocate, & 2024 National Conference Keynote
From surviving brain cancer at 21 to leading a social movement, Matthew Zachary has dedicated his career to making the cancer experience suck less for adolescents and young adults (AYA) around the world.
Why You Should Make a Will and How to Get Started for Free
Are you among the 70% of Americans who haven’t made a will yet? There’s good news… it’s a lot easier than you may think.
The Importance of Advocacy and Support in AYA Cancer Care
After surviving brain cancer at a young age, Savannah Mason is highlighting the pressing need for tailored advocacy and support resources for AYA cancer patients.
Traveling National Parks After a GBM Diagnosis
After being cleared to hike again after GBM surgery, Darrell and Andrea are back on their quest to see every national park in the country and make the most of each day.
Momentum is Building for Meet Hope Head On!
We’re in the midst of Brain Tumor Awareness Month (BTAM) and hope you’re as inspired as we are by the outpouring
Cycling Ahead for Brain Tumor Breakthroughs
For Nicholas “Nick” Cho, an ABTA summer fellowship solidified his interest in becoming a physician-scientist in neuroradiology. Now on track to
Register Now for the Largest Patient and Caregiver Brain Tumor Conference
Registration is now open for the largest educational conference for brain tumor patients and caregivers! Join us Thursday, September 5 –
A Young Adult’s Journey Through Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Recovery: Understanding the Adolescent and Young Adult Patient Experience
This May, the Central Brain Tumor Registry of the United States (CBTRUS) published a groundbreaking report funded by the American Brain
Inspiring Hope: Joe’s Story As A Glioblastoma Survivor
**Sponsored Content**
After facing a GBM recurrence just months after initial treatment, GBM Survivor Joe and his wife Tammy are traveling the country tumor free 18 months after receiving an implantable device that delivers targeted radiation,
Exploring New Frontiers: Y-90 Internal Radiation Trial for Recurrent Glioblastoma
**Sponsored Content**
Learn about an active clinical trial studying Y-90, an internal radiation treatment that aims to directly target brain cancer while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissue.
Inaugural Year of Meet Hope Head On Yields $10M Investment in Our Mission
Discover how we’re closer to tripling our investment in research thanks to your support of Meet Hope Head On!
Incorporating Diet & Nutrition in Your Brain Tumor Care
Get tips for optimizing what you eat during brain tumor treatment and in recovery.
When Melanoma Metastasizes to the Brain
Explore the risks of melanoma metastasizing to the brain and join an upcoming webinar to empower yourself or a loved one.
Sangami Pugazenthi Awarded 2023 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award for ‘Radiation Resistance in Grade 2 Meningiomas’
Sangami Pugazenthi is rewarded for her research exploring biological processes behind radiation resistance in grade 2 meningiomas.
Climbing Higher: Janice Armbrust’s Glioblastoma Journey at Pacific Neuroscience Institute
**Sponsored Content**
There’s no stopping Janice Armbrust. Discover how her passion for hiking is helping her thrive with glioblastoma.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Provides Easier Option For Some Patients
**Sponsored Content**
Discover how Mayo Clinic is leveraging minimally invasive surgical techniques to maximize tumor resection while making recovery easier for patients.
American Brain Tumor Association Announces New Board of Directors Officers and Members
Meet the ABTA’s newest Board Members, Laura Aguilar, MD, PhD, and Charles (Chad) Schafer, JD.
Annual SNO Meeting Fosters Unprecedented Collaboration
Read our top takeaways from the Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Meeting, the world’s largest gathering of neuro-oncology experts.
Bri’s Journey to Living Life ‘By Design’
Discover how a brain tumor diagnosis led Bri to live a more fulfilling life and how she’s helping others do the same.
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
Clinical Trial Testing Effectiveness of Blood Cancer Drug in Recurrent Glioblastoma
**Sponsored Content**
Learn more about Biodexa’s Phase 1 clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of an approved blood cancer drug in liquid form to treat recurrent glioblastoma (GBM).
Your Support Turns Hope Into Action
Join us in our mission to accelerate research breakthroughs and fuel hope for brain tumor patients and families.
Six Tips From My Experience As a Caregiver
For National Family Caregivers Month, Robin Ferrill shares tips from her experience embracing the role after her husband’s GBM diagnosis in 2022.
Top Brain Tumor News & Milestones for 2023
From groundbreaking research to new collaborations at a federal level, discover the top three brain tumor news highlights and milestones for the year.
Brain Tumor Survivor Shares Top Three National Conference Takeaways
After losing her husband to GBM in 2022 and receiving her own diagnosis, survivor Beth Kassab didn’t know what to expect attending the largest brain tumor conference in Chicago. Read Beth’s top takeaways:
Don & Gail Segal Awarded Top Honor for Their Life-long Commitment to the ABTA
Discover how one couple’s efforts to make a difference after their young son was diagnosed with a brain tumor led to their vital role in establishing the ABTA and ensuring its ongoing success.
Sally Walker Honored for Dedication to Daughter’s Legacy, Advancing Research
After losing her daughter Kristi to GBM in 2011, Sally set out to carry on her daughter’s legacy of living life to the fullest and supporting brain tumor research.
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.
“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.
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.
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
**Sponsored Content**
See how a cutting-edge imaging solution by Medexus Pharma is revolutionizing treatment outcomes for GBM patients.
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.
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.
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
**Sponsored Content**
In honor of Brain Tumor Awareness Month, glioblastoma patient, Kate, shares her story of resilience and moving forward.
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!
When Melanoma Metastasizes to the Brain
Explore the risks of melanoma metastasizing to the brain and join an upcoming webinar to empower yourself or a loved one.
Incorporating Diet & Nutrition in Your Brain Tumor Care
Get tips for optimizing what you eat during brain tumor treatment and in recovery.
American Brain Tumor Association Announces New Board of Directors Officers and Members
Meet the ABTA’s newest Board Members, Laura Aguilar, MD, PhD, and Charles (Chad) Schafer, JD.
Minimally Invasive Surgery Provides Easier Option For Some Patients
**Sponsored Content**
Discover how Mayo Clinic is leveraging minimally invasive surgical techniques to maximize tumor resection while making recovery easier for patients.
Climbing Higher: Janice Armbrust’s Glioblastoma Journey at Pacific Neuroscience Institute
**Sponsored Content**
There’s no stopping Janice Armbrust. Discover how her passion for hiking is helping her thrive with glioblastoma.
Sangami Pugazenthi Awarded 2023 ABTA Lucien Rubinstein Award for ‘Radiation Resistance in Grade 2 Meningiomas’
Sangami Pugazenthi is rewarded for her research exploring biological processes behind radiation resistance in grade 2 meningiomas.
Inaugural Year of Meet Hope Head On Yields $10M Investment in Our Mission
Discover how we’re closer to tripling our investment in research thanks to your support of Meet Hope Head On!
Popular Stories
Bri’s Journey to Living Life ‘By Design’
Discover how a brain tumor diagnosis led Bri to live a more fulfilling life and how she’s helping others do the same.
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
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.
Popular Stories
Connect with Your Community in 2024
A new year brings new opportunities to make a difference in the brain tumor community and empower yourself!
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.
Bri’s Journey to Living Life ‘By Design’
Discover how a brain tumor diagnosis led Bri to live a more fulfilling life and how she’s helping others do the same.
