Fundraiser for Glioblastoma Research - For Gary

I write this with tears in my eyes...I had originally intended to begin this fundraiser in May, for "Brain Cancer Awareness Month," and then again, on July 21st, for "National Glioblastoma Awareness Day." Both times I second guessed myself and was distraught over not knowing what to say.

Tonight, on the eve of my 30th birthday, I am reflecting on what it will be like to celebrate my birthday without my dad by my side, sneaking bites of cake in, and writing DAD in all capitals on my card.

I feel him with me every day, but today I feel called to finally begin what I expect to be a long journey of raising awareness, and sharing the many beautiful, blessed, and heart felt moments with my dad.

In lieu of a birthday celebration for my 30th, or receiving any gifts and cards this year, I want to honor my father and raise money for research into the disease of Glioblastoma.

In November 2020, my father was diagnosed with Glioblastoma. Glioblastoma is a type of brain cancer. It’s the most common type of malignant brain tumor among adults, but generally speaking it is not a "common" form of cancer. Only 14,000 cases are diagnosed a year, and last year, my father was one of them.

Due to how uncommon and lethal this diagnosis is, it is often under-funded and under-researched. Glioblastoma is highly lethal and notoriously difficult to treat. While the 5-year survival rate for all types of brain cancer is 33%, GBM has a 5-year survival rate of only 5%, with the survival rate for 1-year at roughly 40%.

At this current time, there is no cure for Glioblastoma.

Today, I am gently asking that you consider donating to this Go Fund me that I've created on behalf of my dad. All funds will go to the National Brain Tumor Society, a foundation that helps support UCLA's Neurology Department, where my father received treatment for his diagnosis last year.

If you are not comfortable utilizing this platform, you may also Venmo my personal account @Lauren-Aardema with "For Gary" in the text; ALL donations received will be put toward this fundraiser.

My daddy passed in January 2020, 3 months after his diagnosis; This will be my first birthday celebrating without him.

I want to start off this next decade of my life by doing something to commemorate him. Every dollar makes a difference.

Thank you for your help.