The Be Brave for Life Foundation works to improve the quality of life for those affected by cavernous malformations and non-cancerous brain tumors by raising awareness and funding innovative research. Together, we will make difference for patients and families!
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As you raise funds to create awareness around and support research for cavernous malformations and non-cancerous brain tumors, you will discover the power that comes from being brave!
Surgery. The only cure for Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM).
While four decades of research into CCM has resulted in a greater understanding of the growth of these lesions, treatment options remain limited. Today, they CANNOT be directly treated with medicine. Without surgery, symptoms can only be managed or monitored. The risks of surgery are high. It can cause permanent neurological deficits, especially in the brainstem, and there is still a high chance of recurrence.
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We're incredibly grateful to all of our supporters!
(and to Baxter - who hiked 50 mountains this summer in support.)
Recent Blog Posts
Read about how we're working to fund research for a cure!
Tamela
I am Tamela Wagner, also known as Tamela Blessed Art. A creator of hope and happiness! My life changed in the blink of an eye when I was diagnosed in 2011 at age 44 with a rare brain disease called Cavernous Angioma. In 2012 I had brainstem surgery that many surgeons told me would be…
Erin
My name is Erin and I am a cavernous malformation survivor. In 2013 [during] my senior year of college…I drove seven hours home for spring break. That Monday, not even 3 days home, I got very sick… All of a sudden it felt like spiders were on my back and [my parents] called 911. [In the…
The role of Adamts in Cerebral Cavernous Malformation (CCM) disease
In the project above, I planned to test whether genetically and pharmacologically inhibiting Adamts in CCM disease can be utilised as a therapeutic target for Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CCMs). Since I received the grant, I have identified an FDA approved drug, Ponatinib, which can effectively target MEKK3-KLF-ADAMTS pathway to prevent CCM formation and growth in…