As many of you know, I have been on a new journey in life. In May 2020 through an incidental finding, I was told I had a meningioma. No one is ready to hear they have a brain tumor. Initially, we just watched and waited. My MRIs became routine, every 4 months, then every 6 months, and finally once a year. I was just getting used to the idea that my MRIs were just part of my year. In June 2024, that changed when I learned that my tumor had grown too big and needed to be removed. This was a detour I hadn’t planned for, but I was ready to prepare. With the support from Dr. Jennifer Moliterno and her team, and Chris Cusano and the CT Brain Tumor Alliance, I began researching and preparing for my craniotomy. I now have a new anniversary to add to my life: May 28th, the day of my craniotomy. Since this past May, my journey has had lots of twists and turns–7 days at Yale, over 2 weeks as an inpatient at Gaylord, and I am still at Gaylord for outpatient services. But I am healing and getting stronger each day.

Recently, I found out that Dr. Moliterno nominated me for the June Rice Courage Award. I am grateful and honored to be recognized by her and the CTBTA. I never imagined I would be a part of this new club, but here I am. I am thankful for Chris Cusano, the team of brain tumor survivors I consulted, the doctors, the PAs, the nurse practitioners, the nurses, the PTs, the OTs, the speech pathologists, and all my friends and family that are helping in my journey. They are the reason that I have the courage to face this challenge.

Playing for the Cure: Brainstormin’ is a night-out featuring live music, great beer, food trucks and more hosted by the CT Brain Tumor Alliance. ​​This event raises funds and awareness to support the brain tumor community, celebrates survivorship, and honors those whom we remember. Join us for an unforgettable night and raise a glass with us as we fight to find the cure and honor many survivors. If you cannot attend, feel free to donate to this worthy cause. Thanks in advance for your support!

Together, we can make a difference!

WHO: The Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance, Inc. (“CTBTA”)
WHAT: 12th Annual Playing for the Cure: Brainstormin’ Event
WHERE: New England Brewing Co. (formerly the Stony Creek Brewery) in Branford, CT
WHEN: Thursday, September 4th at 6 pm