The Brain Tumor Awareness Organization was founded by Julie Houston, the wife of Keith, who was diagnosed in June 2002 with a Grade 3 Anaplastic Oligodendroglioma. This diagnosis was overwhelming and led Julie on a search to understand brain tumors, the treatments available and their effects. It became clear that the resources that she found could be pulled together on one website. The organization was formed to complement existing brain tumor organizations-all who answer a need in the areas of research, treatment, assistance, advocacy and support.

Most of these organizations provide an immense amount of information through their internet sites but the focus of The Brain Tumor Awareness Organization was to streamline these resources in a comprehensive website so that a brain tumor patient or overwhelmed caregiver could access and digest at their own pace, the available programs and information they offer. This primary focus provides a navigation process for those that visit our site which can save hours, alleviate stress and provide a safety net for those in the crisis phase of the disease.

Our long term vision is that this site will allow survivors and advocates to spread the message of awareness and bring the attention to this disease that is necessary to encourage research funding, support services, public support and the empowering of brain tumor survivors and their families. As we come together through a common meeting place, we can build upon each others’ experiences to increase the quality of life for survivors and assist in creating options for those that are disabled but have the need to supplement their income to support their families. Perhaps through online advocacy and philanthropy, we can provide a social program to do just that.

One never knows, until one tries.