When Elena Mosjova was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2016, she began a journey that would ultimately inspire her to help others and support medical research.
Today, nearly a decade later, Elena is a mother of two daughters, an ABTA supporter and the founder of a charitable organization. She shares her story with a simple message for others facing a brain tumor diagnosis: keep fighting and hold on to hope.
Facing Brain Tumor Surgery
In early 2017, Elena underwent a craniotomy at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC).
She remembers feeling especially grateful for the medical team that cared for her, including neurosurgeon Dr. Fady Charbel.
“I was in the hands of an excellent team,” Elena says. “I’ll always be grateful.”
Her surgery was successful, marking the beginning of a new chapter in Elena’s life.
Discovering the ABTA
After her surgery, Elena learned about the American Brain Tumor Association.
Having experienced firsthand the uncertainty that can accompany a brain tumor diagnosis and treatment, Elena was happy to find an organization dedicated to supporting the brain tumor community.
Since then, she has been grateful for the opportunity to support the ABTA and its mission.
But Elena’s desire to give back didn’t stop there.
Turning Her Experience Into Action
In 2023, Elena founded The John J. Neary, a private charitable organization through which she supports medical research.
For Elena, philanthropy has become one way to turn gratitude for her own outcome into something that can benefit others.
She is especially thankful that her life today allows her to give back—and to be there for the people who matter most to her.
“Today, as a mother of two beautiful daughters, I am here to share my story with everyone,” Elena says.
Her experience has left her with a message for others navigating their own diagnosis:
“Fight like never before and always have faith.”
Giving Hope to the Brain Tumor Community
Every brain tumor experience is different, but stories like Elena’s demonstrate how patients and survivors can find their own ways to move forward, connect with others and give back.
The American Brain Tumor Association provides trusted information, resources and personalized support for patients and families throughout every stage of the brain tumor journey.
