Almost three years ago I was diagnosed with a brain tumor. On December 7, 2021, I found myself with what I thought was a terrible migraine. I wound up at the ER at the insistence of my good friend who also happened to be a Neuro nurse. Come to find out, this "migraine" was a nearly 7cm tumor pressing against my brain and skull. On December 10, a gross total resection of this tumor was performed at Mass General Hospital and I received the unfortunate news that it was malignant. Ten days later pathology reported that it was a Grade 4 Anaplastic Astrocytoma, IDH mutant.

On Sunday, October 20, the NBTS will be holding their annual New England Brain Tumor Walk right here in Boston. Team Smiley Strong has raised over $50,000 for the NBTS since 2022, and we're determined to reach our $20,000 goal again this year. Your donation can help fund groundbreaking research, provide essential support services, and help find a cure.

Recently I turned 30 and I’m doing incredibly well with stable scans. As I reflect on the last few years, ones filled with the highest highs and the lowest lows – I am grateful for (almost) all of it. Most important of these is the support system and community I have built. Part of that incredible support comes from brain tumor organizations like the National Brain Tumor Society, which has been a lifeline for countless patients and families.

So I’m asking for your support. Join our team, donate, or simply share our story. Every dollar brings us one step closer to stopping this disease in its tracks. Thank you for your support and for helping to make a difference!