Today is October 6, 2021, and I am now 48 years old! While I have gray hairs, need to wear eyeglasses, and have other funks, I am here and alive! I am also grateful for being a 23-year brain tumor survivor. That includes thankfulness for the things I’ve been able to accomplish, and with the help of many people.
As I reflect on my life, I’ve experienced many chapters. Eight years ago, I needed more treatments and looked in various directions. I was residing in the San Francisco Bay Area and did my research about the next steps. I then embraced the UCLA Brain Tumor Center. They performed my third awake brain surgery, radiation, oral chemotherapy, and a UCLA dendritic cell vaccine clinical trial. Moreover, I learned from genetic testing that I have a mutation from my family history.
While I’m happy to be on planet Earth, I have sadness too. I know very well of brain tumor patients ultimately passing away. Brain tumors are profoundly complicated, and it’s a challenging disease. Institutions and providers might offer some care, and I’m aware of my favorite treasure.
I know from my research, other brain tumor patients, and myself, the UCLA Brain Tumor Center has excellence and innovation. They have done outstanding work, including improved brain tumor patients’ outcomes. While success has occurred through the UCLA Brain Tumor Center, we know much more needs to be done for such a complicated disease.
Research is paramount, including from laboratories to clinical trials in patients. Because of COVID and no fundraising events in 2020 and 2021, I started the Patient Advocacy Campaign for the UCLA Brain Tumor Center. Individuals, groups of people, businesses, foundations, and others can help this important cause with donations large or small to the UCLA Brain Tumor Center. The ultimate goal is $1,000,000.
As I celebrate my birthday with gratitude and love while also knowing the importance of brain tumor research, I am reaching out and asking you to make a tax-deductible donation to the UCLA Brain Tumor Center. This week I’m seeking $10,000 in donations.
Please feel free to visit the Patient Advocacy Campaign for the UCLA Brain Tumor Center, explaining the initiative, videos with patient advocates, and other details, including where to donate. Thank you very much for your consideration.
