Raising funds through a benefit concert to support the CT Brain Tumor Alliance in finding a cure!
Date: September 4, 2025
Where: New England Brewing Co., 5 Indian Neck Ave, Branford, CT 06405
Start Time: 6:00 PM
Now in its twelfth year, Brainstormin' is a community event full of music, food, drinks, an exciting raffle and live auction and most importantly, a program honoring the courage and strength of the brain tumor community. Since inception, over $700,000 has been raised with your support!
In 2014, the Cusano family and friends began this event to support the medical research in brain tumor care. Chris Cusano was diagnosed with a central neurocytoma in 2008 and treated at Yale New-Haven Hospital. Over the course of the past seventeen years, Chris has undergone five surgeries and one stereotactic radiosurgery, and today, he continues to receive clean MRI scans.
The CTBTA honors all brain tumor patient, survivors, caregivers and remembers those we have lost, including June Rice, who bravely battled this devastating diagnosis. Once again, we will present the June Rice Courage Awards, recognizing patients nominated by our presenting sponsor, Yale New Haven Health/Smilow Cancer Hospital. Together, we unite to raise awareness, inspire hope and ultimately, find the cure.
About Our Logo
The logo was inspired by a symbol that has been a part of the Cusano family since Chris was diagnosed. Following his first two surgeries in 2008, Chris' family needed a sign of hope and in that moment, a ladybug landed on his dad and remained there for hours while Chris was undergoing neuropsychological testing to determine his baseline. In the years that have followed, the ladybug has been present at critical moments of Chris' ordeal, be it an MRI, additional surgeries and radiation, while grieving the loss of a loved one and at CTBTA events, always offering peace and comfort. The ladybug is more than just luck - she symbolizes hope, fight and perseverance.
If you are interested in hearing more about Chris's story, check out his blog here.
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