This May, I’m incredibly proud to take part in the Path of Hope event for my fourth year in a row, supporting the Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance - an organization that means so much to my family and holds a special place in our hearts. I’ll be walking in honor of my dad, who continues to face his battle with brain cancer with strength and determination every single day.

For those who may not know our journey, in October 2019 my dad suffered a sudden seizure while golfing. Shortly after, we heard the words no family is ever prepared for - he was diagnosed with glioblastoma, one of the most aggressive and challenging forms of brain cancer. The prognosis was heavy, the treatment options limited, and the fear very real.

But what followed was not a story defined by statistics.

He faced brain surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy head-on. Through every setback and every unknown, he chose courage. He chose hope. And he chose to keep fighting. While the average survival rate is often cited as just eight months, my dad has continued to defy expectations year after year.

This October marks SEVEN incredible years since his diagnosis. Seven years of strength. Seven years of resilience. Seven years of proving that the human spirit is more powerful than any prognosis.

One of the greatest gifts of my life was having my dad walk me down the aisle on my wedding day - something that once felt uncertain, something I had only allowed myself to quietly wish for. His determination made that moment possible. His perseverance made that memory real.

I have never been prouder to be his daughter. His journey is a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable news, hope can rise, strength can grow, and miracles can unfold in the most beautiful ways.

Glioblastoma has deeply affected our lives in ways we never expected, but our mission now is to raise awareness and support others navigating this diagnosis.

Join us on Saturday, May 9th for this year’s Brainstormin' Event - whether attending or donating, your support matters. Event details can be found above, and every ticket and donation goes directly to the CTBTA’s mission.

Since its founding, the CTBTA has contributed over $1.8 million to support brain tumor patients and their families—funding research, providing assistance, and enhancing care across Connecticut. Their goal is to make our state a leader in brain tumor treatment and support.

Together, we can create change and offer hope. Because no one should face a brain tumor diagnosis alone.