The Be Brave for Life Foundation works to improve the quality of life for those affected by cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) and non-cancerous brain tumors by raising awareness and funding innovative research. Together, we will make a difference for patients and families!
Join the fight! Take action today.
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.
(Photo: 1st Annual Apple Jack Kickball Tourney 2019)
Our Sponsors
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!
Heather Gross
Here’s Heather’s Inspiring Story: When I was a 22-year-old college student, I had a random brain hemorrhage caused by a Cavernous Angioma on my right Thalamus. There was no known treatment and the only cure was brain surgery but my lesion was too deep in my brain to reach safely so the doctors told me…
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…