Patients & Survivors: Your Brain Tumor Journey

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Patient Stories

Explore inspiring journeys of resilience and hope through our Patient Stories

February 2025 Ambassador Spotlight – Melissa Lambert

Written by Melissa Lambert It was April 26th 2021, and I was on my way to a physical therapy appointment.  I had been struggling the last few months because I had migraines, bouts of vomiting, …

Mini Episode of the Rare Enough Podcast: Maggie Haynes, Director of Events

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

Episode 20 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Doug Burton, MD

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

Episode 19 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Matt Anthony

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

2024 SNO Conference Recap

Written by Ross Gregory, Head for the Cure Staff Member The Society for Neuro-Oncology (SNO) Annual Conference in Houston this November brought together a vibrant community of researchers, clinicians, innovators, and advocacy groups passionate about …

About Recurrent Glioblastoma and the ReSPECT-GBM Clinical Trial

Recurrent glioblastoma, sometimes referred to as glioblastoma multiforme or simplyGBM, stands as one of the most aggressive brain tumors known to medical science. Itis a malignancy that relentlessly invades the brain, presenting a formidable challengefor …

About Leptomeningeal Metastase and the ReSPECT-LM Clinical Trial

Leptomeningeal Metastases (LM) is sometimes referred to as leptomeningeal cancer,leptomeningeal disease, neoplastic meningitis, or meningeal carcinomatosis. This rarebut serious condition happens when cancer cells spread to the membranes surroundingthe brain and spinal cord.  Leptomeningeal Metastases is …

December 2024 Ambassador Spotlight- Naomi Olivarez

Written by Naomi Olivarez I’ve had the honor of being involved with Head for the Cure for what will be ten years next September of 2025. I first joined in 2015, the year my son passed away from stage 4 glioblastoma multiforme, and I haven’t missed a single event since. To say it was a difficult time is an understatement. All I wanted was to find a place where people could understand my pain and where something good could come from such a devastating experience. Watching my son endure things I’d only ever heard about in commercials was excruciating. Equally …

Episode 18 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Featuring Luke Anderson

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

The Role of OT in the Rehabilitation of Brain Tumor Patients

Occupational therapy (OT) helps brain tumor patients do the tasks they need or want to do to get through the day when faced with physical, cognitive, or emotional changes. OT takes a big-picture view of …

Patient Stories

Episode 20 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Doug Burton, MD

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

The Role of OT in the Rehabilitation of Brain Tumor Patients

Occupational therapy (OT) helps brain tumor patients do the tasks they need or want to do to get through the day when faced with physical, cognitive, or emotional changes. OT takes a big-picture view of …

November 2024 Ambassador Spotlight – Erin Gaffney

Written by Erin Gaffney I’ve been fortunate to serve as an ambassador for several organizations.  I joined the Executive Leadership Committee for the American Heart Association to raise awareness for heart disease.  I participated in …

Episode 17 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Featuring Brian & Emily Godawski

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

Episode 14 of the Rare Enough Podcast: Featuring Michael & Vanessa Hugo

We are thrilled to announce the release of episode 13 of the Rare Enough Podcast, where we have the privilege of hosting Colin Gerner, the CEO and co-founder of StacheStrong. This episode is set to …

The Importance of Prioritizing Yourself as a Person Over Your Identity as a Patient

In the journey of facing a medical condition, it’s easy to let the label of “patient” overshadow our sense of self. Whether it’s a chronic illness, a sudden diagnosis, or a long-term treatment plan, the identity of being a patient can consume our thoughts and actions. However, it’s crucial to recognize the importance of prioritizing ourselves as individuals over our identity as patients. Here’s why:Preserving Self-Worth: Being a patient doesn’t define your worth as a person. It’s essential to maintain a healthy sense of self-worth independent of your medical condition. Remembering your talents, strengths, and qualities can help you maintain …

Embracing My New Patient Identity

The thought of embracing my new identity as a brain tumor patient was a daunting journey filled with uncertainties and challenges. However, it was essential to remember that my identity is not solely defined by my medical condition. While it undoubtedly plays a significant role in my life, it doesn’t overshadow the other aspects of who I am as a person. Here are some steps that helped me navigate and embrace my new identity:Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s okay to feel a range of emotions, including fear, anger, sadness, and even relief.

Nurturing Mental Health: Insights and Strategies from Patients and Caregivers

A brain tumor diagnosis brings forth a mass of challenges, not only physical but also emotional and mental. Managing your mental health becomes a crucial aspect of the journey for both patients and survivors. In …