When Andy was 3 years old he started complaining that his neck hurt. After months of chasing down a cause we finally ended up at Children's National Medical Center for an MRI, and on December 6, 2011 he was diagnosed with a Juvenile Pilocytic Astrocytoma. Although it's hard to describe our fear, and how our lives changed that day, we were amazed at Andy's bravery and by the kindness that was shown to us by friends and family during our hardest times.

Thanks to the wonderful doctors and nurses at Children's National, Andy underwent a successful surgery to remove the tumor on December 8, 2011 and hasn't let anything get in his way since. We are now celebrating 12 years tumor free, and will run the Race for Hope this year with happy hearts for Andy, but knowing that there are countless more children who need access to life saving research and care.

Every brain tumor warrior has an amazing story to tell and we want to do everything we can to raise awareness. Please support our team and donate to team Amazing Andy so we can give back as we give thanks during one of our favorite events of the year.

Our team is excited to join forces with the National Brain Tumor Society by participating in the first ever National Brain Tumor Walk and Race for Hope-DC in honor of Brain Tumor Awareness Month. Please support our efforts by either registering to join our team or consider making a donation to one of our team member's fundraising efforts. While we continue to navigate living in a virtual space, we are reminded of the benefit it provides; YOU can support this year's event and take part in the program on May 2nd from anywhere in the world! The National Brain Tumor Society is committed to conquering and curing brain tumors — once and for all.