for my mom <3
Hi friends, family, and I suppose strangers who just have a really strong moral compass, thanks for being here.
When my mom was sick, I'll never forget asking one of her doctors why we weren't further along when it came to finding a cure for brain cancer. I was a teenager so I had a very limited understanding of the disease other than webmd telling me the terminal nature of her diagnosis. He said to me "if we had more funding, we would have cured brain cancer by now." I couldn't believe that a lack of money (which of course meant research) was going to be the thing that prevented me from having my mom. At that age I thought money was a means to having a nice car, or a cute prom dress. I never thought about money buying you more time with someone. Every dollar that goes towards brain cancer research might buy someone another day, another month, another year.
When she died in 2011 after her 3.5 year battle, I promised myself I would always try and do my part in preventing other people from losing their parent (or child, sibling, spouse, friend, etc.) to brain cancer. That is why I am starting a team and walking in the National Brain Tumor Society 5k.
In the last almost 13 years since my mom died, the advancements that they have made have been remarkable. In my family group chat we always share any major studies or findings, and I cannot wait for the day when my little sister sends us some medical press release saying they have found a cure. But in the meantime, every bit of progress is worth celebrating because it means more moments. I would do anything to have had my mom at my college graduation, or my first movie premiere. I know if we keep fighting and fundraising, we will make it so others are not left with the same massive hole as my family.
On a lighter note, how fitting is it that the NBTS walk is on April 20th (4/20)!? My mom was a cannabis supporter and lover. When she was sick, it was one of the only things that brought her relief and helped with her appetite. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate the holiday than to raise money for brain cancer in honor of my mom.
Thank you for your support. Appreciate you honoring the memory of my mom, Laurie Striar.
National Brain Tumor Society is fiercely committed to finding a cure for brain tumors. They are aggressively driving strategic research; advocating for public policies that meet the critical needs of the brain tumor community; and providing comprehensive patient, family and caregiver resources. Your support ensures this important work will continue.
If you think this page contains objectionable content, please inform the system administrator.