My dad, John Cassidy, was diagnosed with a brain tumor—and just like that, our lives were turned upside down. But even in the face of fear and uncertainty, my father chose to meet that moment with courage, preparation, and purpose.
Thanks to the resources provided by the American Brain Tumor Association—and our proximity to New York—we found the right care. I still remember his incredible neurosurgeon, Dr. Jafar at NYU, who gave us something that felt impossible at the time: hope.
Research advances, fueled by organizations like the ABTA, gave my dad 13 meaningful years after diagnosis—years I will never take for granted.
Before his passing, my dad made one final gesture of gratitude: he included the ABTA in his estate plan. That act didn’t just honor what the ABTA did for our family—it ensured others would receive that same lifeline in the future.
My father’s foresight and love inspired me and my brothers to launch LifeLegacy, a platform that helps individuals create wills and leave meaningful gifts behind for the causes they care about most.
We wanted to make it simple and accessible—for anyone, at any age—to protect what matters and pass on their values. That’s why it means so much to me that LifeLegacy now partners with the ABTA to support planned giving efforts.When I think about my dad’s legacy, it’s not just about the years we got—it’s about how we lived them. We laughed louder. We loved harder. He turned his eye patch into a pirate routine to make us smile. He volunteered for clinical trials so others might benefit. And most importantly, he made sure our family was protected emotionally, financially and spiritually.
A planned gift can do that. It can provide peace of mind for families in crisis. It can fuel critical research. It can keep the lights on for someone going through the unimaginable. And it doesn’t cost anything today—just a little intention and a lot of heart.
Nearly two-thirds of adults don’t have a will, often because they believe it’s too expensive, too complicated, or something to be done later. But creating a will is one of the most meaningful acts of care you can give to the people and causes you love. It guarantees that your wishes are honored, your family is protected, and your legacy continues—on your terms.
If you’ve ever thought about the kind of legacy you want to leave behind, I invite you to consider making the American Brain Tumor Association part of that vision. A gift through your will, life insurance policy, or retirement account isn’t just a financial gesture—it’s a deeply meaningful act of hope. It’s a way to stand beside brain tumor patients and their families, not just today, but for generations to come. Your legacy can help uphold vital care, compassionate support, and groundbreaking research that will continue to thrive well into the future.
As I like to say: a $10,000 planned gift is like making a $100 donation for 100 years to come. This is more than giving—it’s building something that lasts. And I can’t think of a more meaningful way to honor those we love and help the next family walking this road feel a little less alone.
Create your free will today and protect your future.
Already left the ABTA in your estate plans? Let us know here.
Spencer Cassidy is the Co-Founder of LifeLegacy.
