gmfbrainbuddies Archives - Gray Matters Foundation

Zachary Young “not forgotten”

In memory of my son, 24-year-old Zachary Young who passed away 10-02-2020. Zach was diagnosed with a brain tumor on 06-12-2015. He was 18 years old and had just finished his first year of college, making The Dean’s List both semesters. One year earlier in May 2014, Zach had just graduated high school 12th out of 338…

Senator John McCain’s Death from Brain Tumor Triggers Sadness

After learning of Senator McCain’s passing yesterday, it triggered reflection and some sadness. Let me explain. I love encouraging and sharing support. I believe it is what I was created to do, however this calling comes with a price. When you help those who are living with a disease that has no cure building relationships is…

You learn who your friends are

I made a hospital brainbuddie visit. The patient learned the GBM has possibly returned and she needs surgery to determine if its treatment effect or tumor. I brought a few goodies and some items to brighten the room. I decorated the room engaged in conversation and then! Bless her heart the tears and…

Brain Buddie Survivor Story: John Van Wagner

My name is John Van Wagner and May 30th 1995 after an 8.5 hour surgery I was told I had a menigioma brain tumor. It was benign but it wrapped around my facial nerve and left my face almost completly paralyzed. I had to endure reconstructive surgery and thankfully was able to regain some movement…

The Night Before My First Brain Surgery – 18 Years Ago

18 yrs ago tonight I would await my first brain surgery to take place bright and early in the morning. Micheal and I stayed at Hilton Suites near the hospital to make sure we were set for success in the morning. That evening I sat writing notes & cards for all my friends & family…

Thankful Thursday

THANKFUL THURSDAY: I can’t thank @E Joyce Rend Webb enough. She was the brain buddie who requested I be featured in the Card Maker Magazine back in 2011. The really cool part of this story was she’d been making and donating cards to the foundation in memory of her dear friend who had passed from a brain tumor…

When you listen do you hear?

This IF ONLY FOR ONE took place Friday Jan. 29 2016. I had a pretty busy morning starting with a meeting at BNI . I always try to maximize my time when at the hospital, today wasn’t any different. I was able to visit #babycarsonsdaddy, great news he is moved back to a regular room…