Team “Hickory Rice” is named in honor of both Laura “Hickory” Ruhf and Laura’s nephew Eric “Rice” Heller.  Here are their brain-tumor survivor stories…

LAURA – HICKORY:

Laura is a 27-year brain tumor survivor.  In October 1997, after suffering through a couple of gran-mal seizures, Laura was diagnosed with a brain tumor.  In January of 1998, the George Washington University surgical team resected an astrocytoma (Grade 2).  After a couple of years of on and off occupational, physical, and speech therapies, she made a full recovery and was able to return to a close to normal life.  Then in July of 2002, during a routine checkup, she learned the tumor had returned.  In October of 2002, the GWU surgical team resected an anaplastic astrocytoma (Grade 3).  This time, however, Laura suffered a stroke during the surgery, which prevented her from making a full recovery.  The stroke caused semi-paralysis on the right side of her body in addition to affecting her speech. Although she couldn’t make a full recovery, Laura refused to let that slow her down.  She continues to exhibit a fighting spirit while always possessing a positive attitude.  Even with her disability, Laura can still enjoy her favorite hobby, which is to garden.  Through the spring, summer, and fall, it’s not unusual for people walking by Laura’s flower gardens, and there are several different gardens with up to 75 varieties of plants and flowers, to comment on how beautiful the property is. 

ERIC – RICE:
Our team also honors Laura’s nephew Eric Heller, who was diagnosed with a oligodendroglioma in July 2023.  Eric had successful surgery to resect the tumor and is now having regularly scheduled MRIs. Eric is an inspiration in his response to his diagnosis, learning how to best ward off a recurrence through exercise, diet, and reduction of stress in his life.