May is Brain Tumor awareness month.
Brain Tumor Awareness Month, also called Gray May, is observed each May in the United States to highlight the impact of brain tumors, educate the public, and support research and patient care. The gray ribbon is the official symbol, and National Wear Gray Day, typically on May 27, encourages people to show solidarity with those affected . The observance includes both benign and malignant brain tumors, which can significantly affect cognitive and physical health.
The month aims to:
- Raise awareness about brain tumors and their challenges.
- Support patients and caregivers through community events, advocacy, and educational resources.
- Promote research for better treatments and potential cures, including clinical trials and precision medicine initiatives.
- Honor those affected, including patients, survivors, and families who have lost loved ones
So, 3 years ago, due to our then 9 year old granddaughter, Olivia Rose, undergoing surgery for a brain tumor, I wanted to honor this month.
Liv started having seizures and after a MRI her tumor was found.
Liv and our whole family, are fortunate, since her brain tumor was a very rare, non-malignant tumor, called PLNTY.
Since she is approximately, one in 50 in the world with this diagnosis, we count our blessings.
The surgery was long and extensive. She now has a titanium plate in her skull.
Olivia has grown into an amazing person, now at the end of 7th grade. Fortunately, she’s not experiencing any seizures.
Her bravery and strength, along with the love of her parents and grandparents, friends and extended family, have carried her through.
Basically, she excels in her classes, her love of art and music. Liv also enjoyed being in her first middle school play this year.
All of her follow up MRI’s have been clean.
Comparatively, my good friends then 8 year old grandson, William, was diagnosed just weeks before Olivia. His unfortunately was a malignant brain tumor.
He and his family fought hard for this amazing little guy. Just one year later he passed away.
I will include a link if you would like to donate to support research for better treatment options for pediatric brain cancer.
This is Will’s families link to help with childhood brain cancer research:
https://p2p.thecurestartsnow.org/5446
I’ll include photos of Will and Liv below.
Please help me honor them and so many others who have been diagnosed with pediatric brain tumors.
Either through your donation and or through prayers.
With love and appreciation,
Connie
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