In March 2024, I went from living my normal 20-something life to waking up in the hospital after multiple seizures. An MRI revealed the reason no one ever expects to hear: a brain tumor — a grade 2 oligodendroglioma in my right frontal lobe.

Fast-forward to a craniotomy, recovery, and targeted therapy, and I’m now stable, strong, and still here — living the life that research and treatment made possible.

Last year, I showed up to this event as a brand-new patient, terrified but determined, leading a tiny team of 5: me, my parents, and my brother and his wife. This year, I’m coming back with a bigger smile, a bigger sense of humor, and a much bigger team — because this fight deserves a crowd.

I named our team “No Encore for Cancer” because:

• this tumor tried to take the stage,

• and we shut the show down.

And this year, I’m not just walking — I signed up for the 5K. (Will I actually run? Probably only if a snake crosses the course. Otherwise you’ll see me power walking with dramatic flair.)

Here’s where you come in:

You can donate — because every dollar goes directly to the Duke Brain Tumor Center, the place that is literally keeping me alive and thriving.

You can join my team on event day — the more bodies and noise, the better. Walk with me, run with me, or just show up and yell really loud.

The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke isn’t just a research lab — it’s hope, it’s innovation, and it’s the reason patients like me get to plan futures instead of funerals. Your contribution helps fund groundbreaking therapies, clinical trials, and the science that’s turning “brain cancer” into a story of survival.

Whether you donate, join the team, or just send good vibes — thank you.

Your support truly makes a difference, and I’m proof of that.

Brains, beats, and better days — let’s make them happen for every patient.