16
SM You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor! SM SM What’s Inside A Letter From Sherry Samuels ............ 2 Brain Tumor Research Study................ 2 The Butterfly Fund ............................ 5 BTFC Happenings! ............................. 6 Race for Research ............................. 8 Pass the Hat/BTFC Merchandise ......... 9 Tumor Troopers in Action.................. 9 Gifts Received .............................. 10 Scholarship Announcements ............ 12 In Memory .................................... 13 Celebrations ................................. 14 Calendar of Events ........................ 16 The Butterfly Bulletin is produced every six months and therefore some of our “news” may seem a bit old by the time it reaches you. We feel it is important to report on major events and occurrences, however, and hope you enjoy all that is shared here. “You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.’ continued on page 5 Fall 2011/Winter 201 2 Reporting on News and Events for the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children Family How Establishing a “Special Named Fund” at BTFC can help you Honor your Child and Help Others: An Interview with Vindi and Scott McMaster of Carley’s Rays of Hope in Aiken, SC When Vindi and Scott McMaster’s 11-year-old daughter Carley lost her three- year battle with a brain tumor in 2008, they wanted to do something to not only help other families whose children were diagnosed with brain cancer, they wanted to do something to honor and celebrate their brave daughter’s life. What made you decide to establish Carley’s Rays of Hope at the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children and what kinds of things do you do? When our daughter Carley lost her battle to brain cancer in December 2008, it im- mediately triggered a need in us to be in- volved in giving back to those who helped us out so much. We wanted to be involved in helping support the fight against cancer in some way. We knew after Carley’s death that if we didn’t keep moving and find a spot where we could help others that we risked the possibility of sort of A Myriad of Events in May for National Brain Tumor Awareness Month In May 2008, when the House of Rep- resentatives passed a resolution declaring May National Brain Tumor Awareness Month, the door opened to increase awareness of a disease that can have lifelong and devastating effects. In 2011, the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children worked diligently, on a grass roots level, to raise awareness and offer families ad- ditional support throughout the month. Stories of Inspiration Each day in May, inspiring stories of BTFC children were featured on the But- terfly Blog – www.braintumorkids.word- press.com. Whether a video montage, ac- counts written by parents, or the thoughts of a sibling, little compares with stories of BTFC children persevering in spite of chal- lenges faced during and after treatment or the heartache experienced by families when a child does not survive. Taking It to the Capitol On Monday, May 2nd, eight BTFC families joined BTFC’s Director of Patient & Family Services, Sherry Samuels, at the Georgia State Capitol building to receive a proclamation signed by Governor Nathan Deal recognizing May as Brain Tumor Awareness Month in GA. Samuels said, “It was great to have an intimate group in continued on page 3

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Page 1: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

SM

You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor!

SM

SM

What’s InsideA Letter From Sherry Samuels . . . . . . . . . . . . 2Brain Tumor Research Study . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2The Butterfly Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5BTFC Happenings! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6Race for Research . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8Pass the Hat/BTFC Merchandise . . . . . . . . .9Tumor Troopers in Action . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9Gifts Received . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10Scholarship Announcements . . . . . . . . . . . .12In Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Celebrations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

The Butterfly Bulletin is produced every six months and therefore some of our “news” may seem a bit old by the time it reaches you. We feel it is important to report on major events and occurrences, however, and hope you enjoy all that is shared here.

“You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.’

continued on page 5

Fall 2011/Winter 2012

Reporting on News and Events for the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children Family

How Establishing a “Special Named Fund” at BTFC can help you Honor your Child and Help Others: An Interview with Vindi and Scott McMaster of Carley’s Rays of Hope in Aiken, SC

When Vindi and Scott McMaster’s 11-year-old daughter Carley lost her three-year battle with a brain tumor in 2008, they wanted to do something to not only help other families whose children were diagnosed with brain cancer, they wanted to do something to honor and celebrate their brave daughter’s life.What made you decide to establish Carley’s Rays of Hope at the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children and what kinds of things do you do?

When our daughter Carley lost her battle to brain cancer in December 2008, it im-mediately triggered a need in us to be in-volved in giving back to those who helped us out so much. We wanted to be involved in helping support the fight against cancer in some way. We knew after Carley’s death that if we didn’t keep moving and find a spot where we could help others that we risked the possibility of sort of

A Myriad of Events in May for National Brain Tumor Awareness Month

In May 2008, when the House of Rep-resentatives passed a resolution declaring May National Brain Tumor Awareness Month, the door opened to increase awareness of a disease that can have lifelong and devastating effects. In 2011, the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children worked diligently, on a grass roots level, to raise awareness and offer families ad-ditional support throughout the month.

Stories of InspirationEach day in May, inspiring stories of

BTFC children were featured on the But-terfly Blog – www.braintumorkids.word-press.com. Whether a video montage, ac-counts written by parents, or the thoughts

of a sibling, little compares with stories of BTFC children persevering in spite of chal-lenges faced during and after treatment or the heartache experienced by families when a child does not survive.

Taking It to the CapitolOn Monday, May 2nd, eight BTFC

families joined BTFC’s Director of Patient & Family Services, Sherry Samuels, at the Georgia State Capitol building to receive a proclamation signed by Governor Nathan Deal recognizing May as Brain Tumor Awareness Month in GA. Samuels said, “It was great to have an intimate group in

continued on page 3

Page 2: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

BTFC Board of Directors

R. Hal Meeks Jr. Chairman of the BoardJulie K. Earnhart PresidentEddie Johnson SecretaryWilliam A. Guzak TreasurerPamela A. EllisRobert Flamini, M.D.Cynthia Hudson-Fernandez Marsi ThrashRick Sauers, Chairman EmeritusAbdel Ragab, M.D., Director Emeritus

Staff

Mary Campbell Moore, Executive Director Sherry Samuels, Director of Patient and Family ServicesKatie Baughman, Office Manager

Meet our Board of Directors and Staff online. www.braintumorkids.org.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children is to provide financial assistance, social support, and information for families of children with brain and spinal cord tumors; fund research projects that improve treatment options and search for a cure; and raise public awareness of the disease and advocate on behalf of children who are affected.

The Butterfly Bulletin is produced twice per year by the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children. Design work is generously donated in full by The Newsletter Factory to whom we are most grateful.

Editors and ContributorsMary Campbell Moore, EditorSherry Samuels, ContributorKatie Baughman, Contributor

Please contact BTFC if you have a new address, if you are receiving multiple copies of this newsletter, or if you no longer wish to receive it.

Brain Tumor Foundation for Children, Inc.6065 Roswell Road, NE, Suite 505Atlanta, GA 30328Tel: 404-252-4107Fax: [email protected]

Design ©2011 Newsletter Factorywww.nlf-pmr.com

I hope this message finds you well as we wel-

come the winter months. It’s hard to believe another

year’s end is upon us. And while it was difficult to trade the flip flop collection for socks and boots, I will admit that my position at BTFC lends to an eager anticipation for the magic that character-izes this time of year.

Magic is watching our kids giggle as they sit on the lap of Jolly Old St. Nick, excitedly sharing their heart’s desires at our annual Holiday Party sponsored by NAIFA-Atlanta.

There’s something magical about hearing the relief in a father’s voice upon learning BTFC’s Butterfly Fund (see page 8) will help with household bills he’s un-able to pay because of missed work due to his son’s treatment.

And while BTFC’s annual Celebration of Life Luncheon brings families together after losing a child, there’s always magical warmth in the air on that winter afternoon as mothers and fathers share memories of their angels with those who “get it.”

At BTFC, magic isn’t about someone with a special hat that houses mystify-ing tricks. Magic is about helping families enjoy all of life’s special moments, offer-ing assistance where there are needs and fostering opportunities to build support networks every step of the way.

We are proud to offer varied levels of support to our families, but know none of the magic would be possible without our many supporters. And as we look forward to a new year, we do hope for continued support. Consider making a donation to our Pass the Hat holiday giving (see page 9); purchase a Tumor Trooper shirt or magnet to help raise awareness (see page 9); volunteer to serve on a fundraising committee or help at one of our family events; or start training for the Tumor Trooper 5K (see page 8).

While we wish a foundation like ours was not needed, we appreciate each of you for your support and/or for allowing BTFC to be a part of your family’s life.

Wishing you all the best,

Greetings Families, Donors and Friends

continued on page 9

Sherry Samuels Director of Patient & Family Services

A research study funded by the Ameri-can Cancer Society is focused on examin-ing the long-term outcomes of childhood brain tumor survivors that we hope will be of interest to you. For this study, partici-pants should be eight years or older and at least five years since diagnosis. In most cases, participants should not be receiv-ing radiation or chemo when entering the study.

The study will consist of two parts: 1) an abbreviated neuropsychological evaluation (i.e. examining memory, atten-tion, and problem solving skills), and 2) neuroimaging (i.e. MRI scans without con-trasts or injections). Participants will be re-

imbursed for their time, travel, food, and parking for each portion of the study (for up to a total of $100). Please note that the neuroimaging will be done for research purposes only and is not a clinical scan. If you are interested in participating or having your child participate, please call 404.413.6339 and leave a detailed mes-sage (name, phone number, best times to be reached) or email Dr. Tricia King’s research team at [email protected] with good times to contact you by phone. A researcher will contact you as soon as possible. The research team looks forward to hearing from you!

Participants needed for Georgia State University Research Study on “long-term outcomes of childhood brain tumor survivors.”

2 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Page 3: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

the Governor’s office in 2011. The goal for 2012, however, will be to line the steps of the capitol building with BTFC kids and families for this occasion.”

Tee Time!On Tuesday May 3rd, more than 275

golfers came out to Chateau Elan in Braselton, GA for the 7th Annual J. Smith Lanier & Co. Charity Classic, BTFC’s most lucrative fundraiser. While this group was

comprised primarily of business men and women who enjoy golf and a reason to support the cause, there were three young survivors who also joined in on the fun – Kevin Daniels and Braden Pilcher from Georgia, and Matthew Hernandez from Miami, FL. These teens, accompanied by

11-Alive News Anchor Ted Hall and PGA golf professional Johnny Spirolaus, had a blast! And when it was all over, they shared their stories and highlights of the day with other golfers at the post-game reception.

A million thanks to J. Smith Lanier & Co. and the many, many sponsors of this event who make it the tremendous success that it is – year after year. If you would like a copy of the event program, featuring a list of all sponsors, stories about this year VIP players named above, and photos from the day, please write to [email protected].

Washing Cars and Raising Awareness

Many thanks to brain tumor survivor Bailey Edmiston for raising awareness AND funds in the Alpharetta area on Saturday, May 7th while washing cars, selling Tumor

Trooper shirts & magnets, and distributing information about the Brain Tumor Foun-dation for Children!

Raising Awareness and Funds…While Eating More Chicken

Kudos to 15-year-old brain tumor sur-vivor Matthew Hernandez, who, with the

Chick-fil-A in his hometown of Mi-ramar, FL, hosted a benefit night for Christina’s Kidz, the South Florida Chapter of the BTFC. Matthew was on hand to share in-formation about BTFC & Chris-

tina’s Kidz as well as sell car magnets to help spread awareness.

Caring for our Caregiving Mommas

Every girl, no matter how busy, needs a little “girl time” and that is what BTFC

offered to several moms on Saturday, May 14th at Dip ‘N Dab Art Studio. The ladies were taken through a guided painting experience and treated to yummy treats, prepared with sincere love & appreciation by BTFC’s office manager Katie Baughman & Sherry Samuels.

A Taste of Hope … With a Touch of Fashion

In May 2007, Treza & Eddie Johnson es-tablished a new annual fundraiser at BTFC entitled A Taste of Hope in memory of their son Kendall Alexander Johnson who lost his battle with brain tumor disease one month-shy of his 4th birthday. A huge hit in Alpharetta, GA, the event includes a sampling of diverse and delectable dishes from local restaurants, live jazz music, and a raffle and silent auction. Proceeds from the event support BTFC’s Butterfly Fund, our family financial assistance program.

To celebrate the 5th Anniversary of this special event and to accommodate the growing number of attendees each year, the event was moved from the clubhouse of the Johnsons’ neighborhood to the fashionable and always flawless Metropoli-tan Club in Alpharetta. In addition, Eddie & Treza incorporated a fashion show featuring BTFC kids into the fundraiser. The fashion show turned out to be the highlight of the afternoon, and how could it not with such adorable models. Funds raised since the first event reached the $50,000 mark this year.

Thanks to the generosity of Allyson Stephens of AllyPop Kids Consignment &

A Myriad of Events in May for National Brain Tumor Awareness Month continued from page 1

continued on page 4

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 3

Page 4: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

Clothing in Milton, GA, nine young brain tumor survivors and four siblings were decked out in AllyPop’s best for their run-way debuts on May 15th! Thanks also, as always, to the many local restaurants and businesses for their continued support of this event. You can learn more and even check out a CNN piece about the event at www. braintumorkids.org.

Dunk Tanks, Snow Cones, Fishing & More!

BTFC’s 3rd Annual Spring Family Picnic was a BLAST! From dunking doctors, nurses, social work-ers and BTFC staff in the dunk tank to enjoying fishing demonstra-tions, there was

a little some-thing to keep everyone busy. Each year the picnic gets bigger & bet-ter! Not only

did the families get to enjoy a great time, there were many park visitors who took time to find out more about brain tumor disease and how BTFC is supporting fami-lies throughout the southeast.

For National Brain Tumor Awareness Month 2012, BTFC staff plans to have a massive group photographed with Gover-nor Nathan Deal, will feature more kids on the Butterfly Blog, host more family fun activities and get more media attention. If you have ideas and/or want to be a part of the ongo-ing planning process, contact Sherry Samuels ([email protected] / 404.252.4107).

A Myriad of Events in May for National Brain Tumor Awareness Month continued from page 3

4 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Page 5: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

fading away and becoming non relevant. That meant we weren’t helping anyone.

We couldn’t just sit idly by while families and chil-dren continued to suffer under the weight of this horrible disease. The BTFC (Mary & Sherry) had such a profound impact on us that when we started talking back and

forth about being a part of this wonderful organization, we knew we were in the right place. Not only that, but Carley loved coming to visit the BTFC office and hanging out with Mary & Sherry. It brought a smile to her face every time we stopped by. Carley is most definitely smiling down right now know-ing we’re working with two of her favorite people in Atlanta!

We are doing three main events a year: a 5/10K Walk/Run, girl’s fast pitch Softball tournament & a black tie gala. We have also teamed up with our local Zaxby’s to do a Spirit Nite once a month.

How has it been in terms of getting volunteers involved and community support?

Surprisingly easy. Whenever a child has gone through what these children go through, people just automatically connect with them. And also, these children are so special in so many ways that every-body wants to extend a hand to help out. It hasn’t been much of a stretch at all for us to round up volunteers in Aiken. Most know Carley’s story and are very sup-portive of the BTFC and the cause. We have tremendous volunteers that help run the events we’re putting on. We’ve been truly blessed to work with great folks on all levels. The community has also been very supportive of what we’re trying to do. Again, most remember Carley’s fight and are willing to step up to help when we reach out to them.What projects are you currently working on?

We are working on a girls fast pitch softball tournament in Oct. 15-16 in Aiken. We teamed up with a large softball tour-nament group (ISA) for the state of South Carolina and are hoping for a great turnout for this our first foray into tournament ball.

We are also laying the groundwork for an-other new event for February, a Valentine’s Gala. This will be a black tie affair at Rose Hill estates in Aiken.Are your other children able to participate in things you do?

Yes! Our oldest son Luke has run in the 5/10k run and they’ve given out flyers and made contacts with kids, teachers and families about our cause. We anticipate them getting more involved in the future with all our events.Has the experience of establishing Carley’s Rays of Hope as a Special Named Fund of BTFC been a rewarding one?

Beyond compare. It’s hard to put into words what it feels like to give back to those folks who gave so much relief to us. Knowing that we’re actually making a difference in someone’s life because we were able to provide funding for an electric bill, mortgage, gas card, or toy for a child suffering with a brain tumor is a wonderful feeling. It’s something that hasn’t gotten old and I don’t suspect it ever will.

An Interview with Vindi and Scott McMaster of Carley’s Rays of Hope in Aiken, SCcontinued from page 1

Imagine being the parent of a healthy 2½-year-old girl who seems to enjoy leaving you awestruck by her boundless energy. With great joy, you watch as she bounces from one activity to the next – belting out her favorite songs, dancing herself dizzy, and being as inquisitive as a 2-year-old can be.

As you juggle play dates, lunch meet-ings and conference calls, you would never imagine the headaches putting a damper on your child’s regular activities would soon result in hearing the words, “Your daughter has a brain tumor.”

In addition to the immediate medical and emotional effects on the family, there are usually significant and ongoing financial implications as well. In 2000, the Board of Directors of the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children decided to address this issue and established the Butterfly Fund.

In its first year, the Fund provided $11,000 in support for families in Georgia only. Now BTFC’s largest single area of spending, the Butterfly Fund provides sup-port for families of children treated at 19 pediatric facilities in eight states.

In BTFC’s 2011 fiscal year (July 1, 2010 – June 2011), 272 families received $324,000 in assistance for everything from rent and utility payments to gas cards and car repairs as show in this chart.

Sherry Samuels, BTFC’s Director of Patient & Family Services says “Managing the Butterfly Fund is one of the most re-

warding aspects of my job. Almost weekly we receive letters, cards and emails of gratitude from parents who didn’t know how they were going to pay their mort-gage or afford gas to get their child to treatment, and then the Butterfly Fund came along.”

While BTFC’s staff and board hope for the day that a cure is found and will continue to, as their mission states, “fund research projects that improve treat-ment options and search for a cure,” they believe the commitment to focusing on meeting the immediate financial needs of families while their child is on treatment is paramount. Sherry Samuels explains, “When I first joined the Foundation, we processed an average of 10 to 12 financial assistance applications per month. Now, six years and 15 pediatric facilities later, we’re averaging 50 to 55 applications. Al-

The Butterfly Fund – Providing Help in a Time of Need

continued on page 8

Medical Travel2%

Car Repairs2%

Med Equip/Services1% Phone

3%

Utility Bills16%

Rent/Mortgage34%

FuneralExpenses

14%

Car Notes/Ins12%

Gas Cards10%

Other6%

Carley McMaster

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 5

Page 6: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

Young Chef’s Academy – Saturday, June 11th

BTFC teens were invited to beat the summer heat at Young Chef’s Academy. Attendees were taught a few tricks of the culinary trade while making individual piz-zas reminiscent of what one would enjoy at California Pizza Kitchen, salad dressed with a lovely Olive Garden style dressing and it was all washed down with a Starbucks-esque frappe. Talk about delicious!

Annual Fishing Extravaganza – Saturday, June 18th

For the past 12 years on a Saturday each June, the Marietta BassMasters Fishing Club has provided a special treat for the local children served by BTFC: a spectacular day of fishing, food, friends and fun. The setting for the event, a 200+ acre property in Loganville, GA, named “The Farm,” is the home of Julian and Chris Danielly, and includes a man-made lake heavily stocked with hungry bream and other fish. The event was dubbed the “Fishing Extrava-ganza” years ago (thanks to Chris Owens, mom of AJ, a fisherman through and through) and continues to be a highlight of the year for BTFC kids and families. The Club provides all the necessary fishing gear, give-aways for the children, and a delicious lunch cooked right on the grill.

We are convinced that this outing is as special to the members of the BassMas-ters and the Daniellys as it is to BTFC and the children and families who attend. The BassMasters, with Alan Buckner at the helm in most recent years, work for months to put on this event and you could not ask for a more generous and car-ing group of individuals. And if that isn’t enough, the group added fundraising for BTFC to the mix in 2008 and since then has raised $26,000 to help fund our pro-grams, $12,000 of that raised this year!

A million thanks to Julian and Chris

Danielly, Alan Bucker, and BTFC’s many charitable friends at the Marietta BassMas-ters! Visit the BTFC website – www.brain-tumorkids.org – or “Like” the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children on Facebook to see pictures from the day.

2nd Annual Mafia Wars for Matty – July 15-17, 2011

Matthew (Matty) Melton was diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of six. In addition to the mental and emotional toll taken on the Melton family, the financial burdens were great. But through the world of social media, the Meltons found an unexpected extended family network.

The Strength In Numbers (SIN) Mafia Wars Family organized the Mafia Wars Su-perheroes for Matty on Facebook, which began as a fundraiser for Matt Melton and his family to help offset some of the costs related to Matty’s treatment. The Melton family, and indeed his SIN family, were overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from the Mafia Wars community from all over the world.

Sadly, Matty passed away in March of 2011, but his legacy lives on. After his death, when Matt and his family were contacted about a Foundation in memory of Matty, SIN felt that an annual fundraiser in Matty’s name would be a great way to give back to the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children, and help other families going through a similar situation. The 2nd An-nual Mafia Wars for Matty online fundrais-ing event took place over the weekend of July 15 – 17 and raised $10,608.52 for Matty’s Miracle Express, a fund of the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children that will help provide emergency financial support to families. Congratulations and thank you to the SIN Family and ALL who participated in this fun and unique way to raise funds for children stricken with brain cancer. You are to be commended!2nd Annual Lake Allatoona Boat Ride (a.k.a. Crusin’ for the Kids) – Saturday, September 10th

Is there a better way to spend a beauti-ful Saturday evening than on a luxurious houseboat with an abundance of yummy barbecue, ice cream & cookies; AND be entertained by a magician, Improv come-dians and an impromptu air show; AND be sent home with a sketch of yourself done by a local caricature artist? Well, thanks to the Towne Lake Optimist Club and Randy & Lisa Skinner, who gener-ously donated the use of their amazing houseboat, 50 or so BTFC family mem-bers can now tell you there is NO better

BTFC Happenings!

continued on page 7

6 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Page 7: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

way to spend a Saturday evening! In ad-dition to hosting this great event for BTFC families, the Towne Lake Optimists raised $5,800 for BTFC! This included dona-tions collected from local businesses, Club members, entry fees from boat owners who tagged along as part of a boat parade, and even $511 raised by three little girls in the community who sold bracelets and necklaces they made.

A special bonus resulting from the day came when Lauren Debranski, the cur-rent Junior Miss Marietta and daughter of Club member Ron Debranski, approached BTFC’s Executive Director, Mary Moore, about making BTFC her platform as she continues in the pageant circuit. Lauren

and her mom met with Mary after the event and this lovely and smart young lady already had some great ideas for more events for BTFC kids. Visit the BTFC website – www.braintumorkids.org – or “Like” the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children on Facebook to see pictures from the day.

Boating Bonanza – Saturday, September 17th

Thanks to the Blue Ridge Chapter of the Antique & Classic Boating Society and the Southeastern Outboarders, many BTFC kids have become boat enthusiasts as they are welcomed onto the beautifully crafted and cared for boats by the delight-ful boat captains.

This year, the weather was perfect, the rides were aplenty and the smiles were nonstop! Thanks to our new friends at the Bone Island Grille and Crooked Creek Marina for donating the space and food and to all the wonderful volunteers. And a special thanks to Jennifer Mosher who ALWAYS works so hard to make this day a

“boatload” of fun! Visit the BTFC website – www.braintumorkids.org – or “Like” the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children on Facebook to see pictures from the day. 7th Annual SkaterAid Skate & Music Festival – Sunday, September 25th

Hundreds of skateboarders, art-ists, musicians and enthusiasts of all ages attended the 7th An-nual SkaterAid Skate & Music Festival in Decatur, raising more than $25,000 in net proceeds for the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children. The silent auction of ingeniously designed skateboard decks raised over $12,000 alone.

SkaterAid was started in 2005 to cel-ebrate the life of Ian Wochatz, a Decatur teen and avid skateboarder who was battling a malignant brain tumor. Follow-ing his untimely death on July 4, 2005, at just 15, Ian’s family and friends decided to honor and remember this great young man by continuing SkaterAid as an annual event to support other kids who are deal-

ing with pediatric cancer. SkaterAid is now a much-anticipated annual celebration of Ian’s life. Hundreds of teens come together to enjoy the art of skateboarding as well as rockin’ music provided by talented neigh-borhood teen bands. Combined with the skateboard deck auction, this event is truly one of a kind.

Thanks to all our SkaterAid friends, volunteers, attendees, and donors! All proceeds from SkaterAid are earmarked for BTFC’s Butterfly Fund, helping families with emergency financial needs when their child is on treatment. Visit skateraid.net to learn more.

Photos courtesy of alexthephotoguy.com

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 7

Page 8: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

For any of you who were with us on July 23rd at Atlantic Station, you know the Race for Research was an awesome event. This year, for reasons previously announced, instead of holding William’s Walk & Run in September, the Brain Tu-mor Foundation for Children teamed up with the Southeastern Brain Tumor Foun-dation for their annual Race for Research at one of Atlanta’s premiere venues. This exceptional 5K run and 1-mile walk drew over 1,500 participants and raised net proceeds of $238,000! Teams in honor of adults and children alike were gathered in specially made team shirts of all colors around the impressive venue location. Fortunately, a huge tent allowed people to escape the direct sun at times and for all of the morning provided cover from which survivors and family members were invited to step up and talk about their or their loved one’s journey and why the event was so important to them. Pey-ton’s Space Rangers, in memory of little 2-year-old Peyton McCormick, came in as the top team in size and dollars raised; 185 members and $20,736.59 raised! See

other team placements and race finish times at the Race Home page found at www.sbtf.org.

All proceeds from the event will be dispensed to medical institutions for vari-ous research projects following a review of applications later this year. Based on par-ticipation by BTFC families and supporters and previously agreed upon terms, BTFC will receive $50,000 for a pediatric brain tumor specific research project.

We thank our friends at the Southeast-ern Brain Tumor Foundation for allowing us to join them for this momentous occa-sion. We also thank the many event spon-sors, volunteers, event participants, and Atlanta’s 11Alive, especially meteorologist Chris Holcomb, for making the event a smashing success.

For 2012, based on comments received from BTFC families, especially in regard to the much higher temperatures in July than in September which are difficult for their children, the BTFC Board voted to return to a September run/walk event. A date of September 8, 2012, has been confirmed and the event will take place on North Point Parkway in the New Balance Shop-ping Center at 7300 North Point Parkway, just a few doors down from where Wil-liam’s Walk & Run was held for 12 years.

With a new start in a slightly new loca-tion and to incorporate our little Tumor Trooper characters into the event, it will be called the Tumor Trooper 5K.

Watch the BTFC website, E-Bulletins, and this publication for further information!

though the family’s world stops at diagno-sis, everyday financial obligations do not, so we must continue to be here to offer this level of assistance.”

Thanks to the generosity of its many donors, BTFC has provided close to $2 million in the Butterfly Fund’s lifetime to help families in times of need.

When parents learn that their child has a brain tumor, the daily juggling act turns

into a treacherous rollercoaster of new information and difficult decisions. The Butterfly Fund slows the rollercoaster, al-lowing families to remain focused on what is most important … their child.

As one parent stated in our recent sur-vey “The financial assistance we received helped me be able to stay with my child in the hospital.” What could be more impor-tant than that?

Editor’s Note: For BTFC’s current fis-cal year (July 1, 2011 – June 30, 2012) $350,000 is needed for the Butterfly Fund. You can help ensure that we never have to turn away a family in need by making a donation to BTFC today (see page 9.

The Butterfly Fund – Providing Help in a Time of Needcontinued from page 5

Peyton’s Space Rangers

8 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Race for Research

In order to ensure that BTFC continues to offer support services relevant to the needs of children and families, question-naires are routinely conducted.

The most recent questionnaire elicited many positive comments from parents re-garding BTFC services. Two areas in need of clarification were identified, however:

BTFC enjoys hosting social activities and opportunities for families to connect. Because BTFC is based in Atlanta, GA,

planning activities in other areas and states – while needed - can be challenging. If you would like to help organize a social activ-ity for BTFC families in your area, please contact Sherry Samuels ([email protected] / 404.252.4107).

Through the Butterfly Fund, BTFC pro-vides emergency financial assistance for families of children treated at 18 pediatric facilities in eight southeastern states. Ap-plications for assistance are made through

social workers or other hospital medical personnel. Payments are made directly to creditors and parents are notified of payments made on their behalf. For more information about The Butterfly Fund, visit www.braintumorkids.org or contact Sherry Samuels ([email protected] / 404.252.4107).

See complete details of the results of BTFC’s recent survey at www.braintumor-kids.org.

The Survey Says…

Page 9: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 9

BTFC is honored to know some amaz-ing young survivors who often choose to turn their brain tumor experience into ways to help others.

Meet 8-year-old Rylee, diag-nosed with NF1 at six months old.

NF1(Neurofibromatosis-1) is a genetic disorder that can cause tumors to grow on any of the body’s nerve endings. As an in-fant, Rylee’s parents learned that the NF1 caused her to have an optic nerve glioma.

Although fol lowed with routine MRIs for years, Rylee started treatment when a scan showed the tumor had enlarged.

Rylee had many ups and downs throughout treatment, but came out on top and is doing very well! Because she and her little brother Blake enjoy what BTFC does for families, they decided to raise money for the Foundation by selling popcorn and lemonade in their neighbor-hood on a recent weekend. Rylee worked really hard and 5-year-old Blake even chose to donate some of his own money! Many thanks to these two precious children!

After reading in a recent newsletter about Matthew Her nandez’s fundraising efforts in Miami, 11-year-old brain tu mor survivor Andrew Lakey of Sarasota, FL, de-cided he wanted to help too. With his fam-ily by his side, Andrew held a carwash and raised $1,161 for the Brain Tumor Foun-dation for Children. Not only did Andrew raise money, he increased awareness, es-pecially when legendary sportscaster Dick Vitale tweeted about Andrew’s ef forts! Way to go, Andrew!

Tumor Troopers in Action

Rylee

Rylee’s brother Blake

Pass the Hat!

Please keep the children and families served by the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children on the top of your holiday giving list this year. All donations are fully tax-deductible and will help provide financial assistance, information, family events, grief support, and much more. It’s simple to make your donation online at www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/btfc/btfcholi-daygiving2011. Thank you from all of us at the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children for your generous support!

Tumor Trooper shirts & car magnets now on sale at BTFC!

Raise awareness about BTFC and brain tumors in children by wearing and displaying these Tumor Trooper items. They make great

holiday and year-round gifts for family members and friends.

Introducing Long Sleeved Shirts in yellow and purple. Available in Youth ($15) and Adult ($17) sizes. Original brown and green short-sleeved Tumor Trooper T-Shirts are available at special close-out pricing: $8 for Youth (normally $12) and $10 for Adult (normally $15). Car magnets are available in two sizes: small ($3) and large ($5).

Tumor Trooper merchandise may be bought online at braintumorkids.org or by calling 404.252.4107.

Page 10: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

10 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Grants, Fundraising Events and Endeavors, and Special Gifts

$185,000*J. Smith Lanier & Co. Charity Classic

$59,408Church at Pleasant Hills

$30,000*Flight of the ButterfliesKaiser Foundation Health Plan of Georgia, Inc.

$25,000*SkaterAid

$16,000 – $19,999*A Taste of Hope, Hosted by Treza and Eddie JohnsonNAILBA Charitable Foundation

$10,000 – $15,999*Marietta BassMasters, Host of the Annual Fishing Extravaganza*Mafia Wars for Matty, for Matty’s Miracle Express

$5,000 - $9,999Atlanta FoundationFrances Hollis Brain FoundationRay M. and Mary Elizabeth Lee Foundation*The Towne Lake Optimist Club Cruisin’ for the Kids Fundraiser

$1,000 - $2,500 Sam P. Alterman Family FoundationEnterprise HoldingsJewish Federation of Greater AtlantaLisa and Jim MartinJoanne and Herbert Singer Family Philanthropic Fund

General DonationsAarene Contracting, LLCAnonymousPaula BaldwinBank of America Charitable FoundationBengali Association of Greater AtlantaZakiya BrownRylee BuchananDeborah BurrisDarlene CallahanChess and Robin CampbellLisa CarsonSteven ChatmanTom ClarkClayton School Employees FoundationClub of Hearts, Inc.Lucinda Dallas GambleRandall S. DavisDeutsche Bank Americas FoundationMarian and Ricky DodsonMaya DormanPam EllisBernice B. FrazerCindy GonzalezMagda GonzalezAlexa Goodman

Tyson Lee HeathJorge J. HerreraRobert Timothy HowardRobert HughesIBM Employee ServicesIBM Retiree Charitable CampaignJohn JacksonLinda H. JaffePorchia JohnsonSharon JohnsonMaryam Enami JonesMyra KnightKnights of Columbus Council 12905Maureen KyzerAndrew LakeyLa Mara V., IncRobert LambertonGail LezontierPaul MaynardH.C. McDoleMcMillan Brooks InsuranceMedica Imaging, LLCShay MitchellCharna Moulton-BarrettBeth Ann NelsonTuyen NguyenKimberly Farr NicholsNovartisPanda Restaurant Group, Inc.Cynthia and James ParryMonica Mullins PascoeSanjay and Bhavana PatelSummer PetersPfizer Foundation Matching Gifts ProgramBradley PhilpotS.M. Puleo-KosekOscar RiddleJim RushingAnthony ScognamilloSuzanne ShawSocialVestGlenna Tanner Sherry von KlitzingTana and Keith WagnerKelly WhiteKent WilsonJohn Zugel

In Honor of Jillian Acker’s High School Graduation

The Flamini Family

In Memory of Peter AlessiJohn Mullin

In Memory of Brody BatesSue C. Wilson

In Memory of Cooper BellDonna and Ben Bell

In Memory of Iliss Marie Benjamin

Deborah Benjamin

In Memory of Ryan BondsLisa Frank

In Memory of Michael Allen Bonner

Mary and Wayne Moore

In Memory of Lucy and Gary Brantley

John Mullin

In Memory of Oliver Bridges and in Honor of Conor Bridges

Connie and James BaileyJoan HendricksonBrian HollowayEleanor WalkerT.L. and Joan Williams

In Memory of Martha BrowderGifford, Hillegass & Ingwersen, LLP

In Memory of Sophia BuckLisa AlmBay Creek Elementary SchoolJoan and Bob Sartori

In Honor of Eric BurucaJessica Moreau

In Support of Carley’s Rays of Hope

Girl Scouts of SC Mountains to Midlands – Troop 2409

In Support of Christina’s KidzBarbara and Jorge Cervera

In Memory of Faith ClineAnnie and Don Rogers

In Memory of Florence CohenTed Cohen

In Memory of Angela ColleranThe Araco, Fitzgerald, and McHale FamiliesRonald CampbellJune and John CannonJo Ann and Joseph ColleranJo Ann Colleran’s Tennis Friends: Rose, Barb S., Barb K., Joanne, Peggy, Debi, Judy, Maddy and AnneJoseph F. ColleranDana CorcoranFlorence CottoneCarol and Bob FarbanishAndrew FellingerThe Fiore FamilyGreyhounds Puttin’ On the GlitzJudith and Stephen HallLisa HannanAndrew C. MarineAnne McDarbyMargaret and James McLeodMeadowbrook Inventions, Inc.Frank Ranlett, Mary Tomiuk and Sarah RanlettColleen Sarna and Thom CmarLynn SmitsAnita and Ted TaskEvie TaskBarbara and Mario VojvodichMr. and Mrs. Dennis WallDiane and Mike Wall

In Memory of Hunt ComerJohn Mullin

In Memory of Jack CrockfordPat and Richard Tooke

In Memory of Julius William Davis and in Support of the Larry Dean Davis Scholarship

Judy and Hal AbromsJesse E. ChaffinSherry DavisSue and James M. DavisStephanie, Todd and Cole DavisETC, LLCCarolyn FaustFinancial Discovery GroupRobert D. FortsonGail and Charles HermanShirley HessSusan and Peter HodgsonMissie and Sam HubbsPatricia and Robert JacksonDr. and Mrs. James JohnsonBari KatzRicki and Lanny KlineMr. and Mrs. Eddie LeitmanWanda LittleJoseph Naryka

Bari SokolMarcia UngerSuAnn and Russ VandeveldeSusan and Frank VirginJeanne and Roy WeichandMr. and Mrs. E.F. Whittle, Jr.

In Memory of Larry Dean Davis and in Support of the Larry Dean Davis Scholarship

Joanne Aschmeyer

In Support of the Larry Dean Davis Scholarship

Weswood Foundation

In Memory of Jane Ford DempseySusan Adamowski

In Honor of Brian Dorman and Friends

Steven Roberts

In Memory of Trisha Rushing Duguay

Sherry DeanTara Rubino

In Honor of Julie EarnhartAnne Fayssoux

In Honor of Bryson ElzeyAnonymousJessica DoyalThomas Lanham

In Honor of Lara Juliette Fernandez-Hudson’s 15th Birthday

Liz AitkensMariela Alcala and Jose Antonio ReyIsabella AlmeidaMarise AzaretLidia BenitezIsabel Bucaram and Cristobal Schlaubitz Nicky CamboAngel and Lissette CamposMayra CamposSusan DietrickJulie EarnhartMirta FernandezCarol FlynnMarta GarciaLyda and Alfredo GomezAndrea Gonzalez-MoraCynthia Hudson-FernandezLauren JaureguiMedardo and Anissa LanzasMaite MartinezAleyda MasBertha De Aguiar MorejonMaytee MorrisseyOlga OchoaPalacios FamilyPittaluga FamilyAnne Claire PittmanOlga PurrinosCarmen and Rafael RiveroAileen RodriguezDaniel RoncanoMatthew SabatesZoey SageMercedes Soler and Tomas MartinezEduardo Suarez and FamilyGinelle SuarezOscar VilaRosario VillaverdeWolfsthal Family

In Memory of Margot Flamini’s Birthday

Lynne Lewin

In Memory of Jack GardnerLisa and Joseph Nicolette

Gifts Received Between April 1, 2011 and September 30, 2011

Page 11: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

BTFC proudly - and gratefully - announces receipt of the following grants for the Butterfly Fund:

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of Georgia, Inc. – $30,000 for families in metro Atlanta (June, 2011).

Atlanta Foundation – $8,000 for families in Fulton and DeKalb counties (June, 2011).

Frances Hollis Brain Foundation – $6,000 for families in Kentucky (August, 2011)

NAILBA Charitable Foundation – $17,000 for families in the southeast (September, 2011)As endorsing NAILBA member of BTFC’s grant application, Seixas G. (“Chip”) Milner, President, The Milner Group (left) and Greg Ragan, COO/CFO, The Milner Group (far right), present a check from the NAILBA Charitable Founda-tion to BTFC’s Mary Moore, Executive Director, and R. Hal Meeks, Jr., Chairman.

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 11

In Memory of Yetta GoldmanDorothy and Paul Pantason

In Honor of Lila HannaNAIFA – Atlanta Board of Directors

In Memory of Isaiah JohnsonTiffanny Johnson Dunlap

In Honor of Sonny JonesNAIFA – Atlanta Board of Directors

In Memory of Kai Mariama Jones

Natalie GreenBeverly Miller

In Honor of Lindsey Juzdan and in Support of the Butterfly Fund

Dorothy and George Juzdan

In Memory of Jack KerrRowena and Tommy Clyatt

The Kennedy Family Fundraiser In Support of the Butterfly Fund

Lily and Chloe AdkinsAnonymousPoppy Capponi and FamilyJenny ChristmasRebecca Ferguson and FamilyGingerlou FultonKristi JenningsBrenda and Robert KeenanBeverly and Jimmy KennedyKennedy FamilyLeah and Scott KruszkaElaine MeadersMichelle and Greg MertzPerez FamilyJoanna and Chad PollockReinen FamilyLisa RittsDeb and Chris SchneiderKatherine SeayAlice SheaJan and Mike Williams

In Honor of Andrew LakeyJohn McDonell

In Memory of Sophia LangfordSharon Horne

In Memory of Dr. Eric LaufTed Cohen

In Memory of Alan LischerDr. James and Ann Johnson

In Honor of Susan Loft’s 60th Birthday

Marcia and Stuart Naterman

In Honor of Theo LoventhalNAIFA – Atlanta Board of Directors

In Memory of Matthew McGowan and for his 13th Birthday

Maria and Carl Rijo

In Memory of Matthew “Matty” Melton

Kelly BraniganNancy CampbellDorothy LeahyPatricia PruettRuth and Rodes Walters

In Memory of Lauren MimsWatisha Cofer

In Honor of Mary Moore’s 10th Anniversary with BTFC

Gail and Robert Flamini

In Memory of Audrea MouzonCHOA MOB Rehab

In Memory of Michelle MullinJohn Mullin

In Honor of Lesley Naterman’s Birthday

Linda and Leonard ShermanLoretta SilberMelissa SperoAnn Dee Torino

In Memory of Claire NelsonMargaret Warden

In Memory of William NicholsCarol Ogg

In Memory of Catherine OliveriJudy and Jeff Shostak

In Memory of Marian ParishJuanita McMaster

In Memory of Doris PerlmanDorothy and Paul Pantason

In Memory of Tracee and John Reineke

Heather BogdahnEarl EberlinMatt GoldinKaren and Max GoolsbyMary H. HicksJabian CaresAmy C. KelleyThe Kilgore KidsMichelle McGlameryCharlotte MurphyRick and Sheila Sauers and FamilyDebbie and Eric SearcyElaine and Warren SmithShirley StubbendickDavid Werner

In Honor of Bruce Shaw’s BirthdayGrace Stephens

In Honor of Nicholas SmartDorothy and Paul Pantason

In Memory of Abby SmithLindsay and Matt AaronsonJeff Call, Cary Rodin, Carolyn Ar-nold and everyone at Bennett ThrasherCaroline CrawfordClaire and Alex CrumbleyMartha S. EgglestonAmy HallidayLara and Sam HolmesJulie and Ed JudyShanda KennedyCheryl LassiterJennifer MotleyLynne O’BrienMargaret O’BrienRichard OliverKeith ParkesPeriodontal Associates PCThe Testani FamilyPat and Richard TookeIlene, Mark and Robert ZelnikerJordan and Caroline Zelniker

In Memory of Martin Solano, Jr.Marilyn AdamsHernandez FamilyDenisse LemosCindy Montgenie

In Memory of Lucas SolivanMarco Solivan

In Memory of George Thomas Stump

Rowena and Tommy Clyatt

In Memory of Evelyn TeisenJohn Mullin

In Honor of Brittany TruittLisa Carlisle

In Memory of Irene VagelosDorothy and Paul Pantason

In Memory of Richard C. Walk, Sr.Lucinda Rodriguez

In Honor of Chayton WilliamsonMarlene Williamson

*We would like to take this opportunity to thank our many generous friends who donated and provided sponsorships as part of the following events: Flight of the Butterflies on April 17, 2011; the J. Smith Lanier & Co. Charity Classic on May 3, 2011; A Taste of Hope hosted by Eddie and Treza Johnson on May 15, 2011; The Annual Fishing Extravaganza hosted by the Marietta BassMasters and Julian and Chris Danielly on June 18, 2011; Mafia Wars for Matty on July 15-17, 2011; Cruisin’ for the Kids Boat Ride hosted by The Towne Lake Optimist Club on September 10, 2011; and SkaterAid on September 25, 2011.

Every one of these events is vital to BTFC’s ability to serve our families and we are extremely appreciative of the hard work and financial contributions on the part of every individual, listing all of whom would take several additional pages in this publication.

Every effort is made to ensure that this list is complete and accurate. If you find an omission or error, please accept our apologies and be sure to let us know.

Page 12: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

Determined to Succeed – BTFC’s 2011 Scholarship RecipientsIt takes a young

person who has been to the brink and back with their health to teach the world what life is really about. In the Spring of 2011, committees for the Larry Dean Davis and Herbert Shaw, Jr. Memo-rial scholarships of the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children were intro-duced to several remark-

able young people as they started or continued post-secondary education. The decision-making process for both committees was challenging, but it is with great excitement that BTFC in-troduces you to this year’s scholarship recipients.

Diana Weidle is a 19-year-old college sophomore who was diagnosed with medulloblastoma at the age of eight. She endured six weeks of daily radia-tion and 56 weeks of chemotherapy. Treatment caused her to have hearing & hair loss along with difficulty walk-ing, eating & managing school work. Diana realizes she “missed so many normal childhood experiences” but did not let any of it get her down. Wise beyond her years, Diana says “There

are many other children who fought just as hard or harder than I did and aren’t here today. I want to live my life in honor of them.” Now 11 years since diagnosis, Diana is a nursing major at Spring Hill College.

Congratulations to Diana as one of the recipients of the 2011 Larry Dean Davis Scholarship!

In August of 2007, 15-year-old Madison Winn was diagnosed with medulloblas-toma. She had surgery followed by a grueling treatment proto-col that included both radiation

& chemotherapy. The treatment plan and subsequent inpatient stays caused Madison to fall a year behind in school, but she was determined to finish high school and go on to college. In addition to working hard at school, she volun-teered a great deal of time to groups helping the homeless & hungry as well as those working to increase awareness of childhood cancer.

Now a freshman at Young Harris College, Madison says “it was my battle with cancer that has changed me into a better and stronger person that before. Madison loves children and will one day have a job that allows her to work with children.

Madison has always dreamed of at-tending college and receiving both the Larry Dean Davis Scholarship and the Herbert Shaw, Jr. Memorial Scholarship will get her one step closer to seeing her dreams come true. Congratulations Madison.

For more information on the Herbert Shaw, Jr. Memorial or Larry Dean Davis scholarships or to make a donation to either scholarship fund, please visit www.braintumorkids.org.

Denise Hoegler, member of the Larry Dean Davis Scholarship Fund committee since 2009 said it best, “I feel truly hon-ored to have been a part of the decision-making committee for the Larry Dean Davis scholarships. It is such a challenge to choose among so many inspiring and worthy candidates, but it feels great knowing that Madison and Diana are one step closer to their dreams with the help of these scholarships.”

Diana Weidle

Madison Winn

12 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Keke Palmer supports BTFC

Visit www.braintumorkids.org to read how award winning actress/singer Keke Palmer supports BTFC. Keke, star of Akeelah and the Bee and Joyful Noise with Queen Latifah and Dolly Parton (to hit theaters Janu-ary 13, 2012), learned of BTFC when she met young Iliss Benjamin of Georgia (seen here with Keke) who lost a valiant battle with brain cancer in February of 2011.

Thank you for your support, Keke!

Iliss Benjamin and Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer

Page 13: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

In Memorywww.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 13

In Memory

Mohamed CamaraDecember 28, 2005 to

April 18, 2011

Marcus PettyDecember 5, 2010 to

May 22, 2011

BTFC honors and remembers the following children known to us who passed away between April 1, 2011 and September 30, 2011. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with the families and friends of these precious children.

Alex BarajasJanuary 16, 1993 to

July 15, 2011

Haley EasonSeptember 25, 1987 to

August 22, 2011

Olivia OkenchiJuly 27, 2004 to May 29, 2011

Matthew Grayson LaRocca

October 23, 1998 to April 6, 2011

Grant SimerlyOctober 16, 2000 to

August 6, 2011

Angela ColleranJune 2, 2010 to

June 5, 2011

Doralyn Max-OnakpoyaOctober 27, 2008 to September 6, 2011

Lindsey SteltenpohlFebruary 16, 2005 to

August 18, 2011

Alexandria GunnelsSeptember 8, 1995 to

August 4, 2011

Juliana SilvernailDecember 9, 2002 to

July 15, 2011

Jacob HamesJune 16, 1987 to

June 9, 2011

Kai JonesApril 14, 1996 to

April 29, 2011

Nicholas ByrdNovember 21, 1992 to

July 3, 2011

Adrian LittlejohnFebruary 4, 2010 to

May 1, 2011

Abigail Grace “Abby” Smith

March 24, 2004 to August 17, 2011

Danielle Joyce DerrickMarch 30, 2011 to

May 9, 2011

Peyton McCormickJanuary 10, 2008 to

June 3, 2011

Bo StorySeptember 12, 2007 to

August 15, 2011

Terrance Wilson December 7, 2006 to

May 15, 2011

Not Pictured

Page 14: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

14 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Cele br a t i ons !

Abby, 16Cheers to Abby who celebrated her 16th birthday with friends at Hard Rock Café in Atlanta.

Erin, 20 Erin was all smiles starting the summer as a Walton High School graduate & ending it with a birthday celebration at Chateau Elan before leaving for The Riverview School in MA.

Anne Claire, 8Anne Claire’s artistic talent in the name of Hospital Safety will be seen nationally as a poster she designed takes its place in the 2012 HCA Calendar.

Calla, 5Welcome to Kindergarten Calla!

Daniel, 11Five years tumor free, Daniel loves playing basketball and running track.

Gabe, 2Gabe certainly deserves to wear that sweet smile after completing treatment for his brain tumor.

Ascher, 85 years post diagnosis, Ascher is a typical kid doing typical things…like fracturing his arm while playing.

Connor, 12Great to know Connor (far left) continues to do so well…less frequent MRIs and great trips to the mountains with family & friends.

Diana, 19Looking beautiful in her prom gown just before graduation in 2010, Diana is now enjoying her sophomore year at Spring Hill College.

Alexis, 16Young equestrian Alexis shows off her stellar canter skills.

Bryson, 33-year-survivor Bryson took a moment to smile for the camera after getting his backpack ready for the 1st day of preschool

Cornelius, 18Nothing but smiles from Cornelius as he enjoys his senior prom.

Ella, 4Excited about the start of Pre-K, Ella offers an enthusiastic thumbs up to making new friends, playing on the playground, singing songs & learning the sounds the letter “A” makes.

Page 15: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

www.braintumorkids.org Fall 2011/Winter 2012 15

Hunter, 13Hip Hip, Hooray!!! After 15 months of treatment, Hunter just had clear scans, is back in school & doing very well

Joshua, 11Looking super-cool in his sunglasses, young Joshua recently celebrated 8 years post diagnosis and 4 years off treatment.

Ryan, 13As a dedicated Boy Scout, Ryan was honored to receive the Order of the Arrow, the Boy Scouts of America’s National Honor Society.

Madison, 19Madison started summer right by becoming a Lambert High graduate & then receiving 3 scholarships to help with tuition costs for her freshman year at Young Harris College.

Jay, 5Jay “took flight” in August in what he called his “birthday plane” to celebrate his 5th birthday; he also strutted into his 1st day of school at Challenged Child & Friends.

Juan, 10Looking very handsome in his white suit, Juan stops for a picture after his 1st Communion.

Savannah, 13Now 5 years since diagnosis, Savannah couldn’t be happier enjoying being a teen & spending time with her newest cousin!

Tori, 18Volunteer & speaker extraordinaire, Tori graciously offered to work registration at the 12th Annual Race for Research & then cheered runners on at the finish line. She also shared her story for the 750AM Radiothon for CHOA.

Nellie, 14Run Nellie, Run! That’s what she did in July with the support of a few cross country teammates at the 12th Annual Race for Research & just 1 month later finished her 1st high school JV cross country race in 30:34.

Gus, 3Summer fun has new meaning for Gus as he hit 3 milestones – learning to walk…again, becoming a 1-year survivor and turning 3

Jessica, 20Who better to be a pediatric oncology nurse than a pediatric brain tumor survivor? That’s what Jessie says as she started nursing school at Kennesaw State University.

Kylie, 15After a lot of hard work over the years, Kylie accomplished her goal of becoming a fish (a.k.a. a good swimmer).

Taylor, 13With an amazing therapist (Katie) by her side, Taylor continues to enjoy crafts & reading.

Roderick, Jr., 4Diagnosed at 11 months, Roderick Jr., now in Pre-K, loves to entertain with his singing & dancing skills.

Page 16: Butterfly Bulletin Fall 2011/Winter 2012

16 You don’t have to be a brain surgeon to help a child with a brain tumor.

Making a Difference Since 1983

Calendar of Events!

Contact BTFC at 404-252-4107 or [email protected] regarding all events unless otherwise noted.

We would love to feature your exciting news in our next issue of the Butterfly Bulletin. Please submit your entries to [email protected].

If you are a member of our Parents’ Email Notification List and have changed your email address, please let us know. Don’t miss out on new information and announcements!

6065 Roswell Road, NE

Suite 505

Atlanta, GA 30328-4015

Making a Difference Since 1983

Saturday, December 3, 2011 2nd Annual Faith Cline Elf Trot and Merry Mile – Kennesaw, GA

Sunday, December 18, 201126th Annual BTFC Holiday Party sponsored by the National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors – Atlanta. For all BTFC children 17 and younger and their families.

Saturday, March 17, 2012Flight of the Butterflies – Summerour Studio, Atlanta

Tuesday, May 8, 2012J. Smith Lanier & Co. Charity Classic to Benefit the Brain Tumor Foundation for Children - Chateau Elan Golf Club

May 2012 – TBD Annual BTFC Family Picnic

May 2012 – TBDA Taste of Hope Fundraiser to benefit BTFCHosted by Eddie and Treza Johnson

NON-PROFIT ORG.US POSTAGE

PAIDPERMIT #5527ATLANTA, GA