"Some people think that just the act of living day-to-day is what defines a survivor, and I certainly feel that way sometimes. However, I also believe being a survivor takes commitment to be out there for the world to see while braving everything that life throws your way." - Mike
"My brain tumor has not defined me as a person. It has pushed me to be a better one and given me the courage to do what I have always wanted." - Lori
"I was diagnosed in July of 2009 with a Grade 3 Anaplastic Astrocytoma tumor in the right frontal lobe of my brain- the section that controls movement on the body’s left side. Doctors removed most of the tumor, but left some of it as to not restrict the function of my left leg. The use of my left hand is gone, and my arm is weak. As a result, I can no longer work as a nurse." - Allison
"Having a brain tumor has changed my life and brought much joy to it." - Erin
"There’s no denying that a brain cancer diagnosis casts a very dark shadow over the lives of patients and their loved ones. But without shadow, there can be no light." - Rebecca
"I believed that everything happens for a reason long before I found out I had a brain tumor. After I was diagnosed with a brain tumor, I still felt that way. We may not know why all of the time, but every once in a while we find out." - Mary

Chris' Story

I am not my brain tumor. It is not what defines me as a person. It has become a big part of my life, but I strive to incorporate it into the whole story of who I am as a chaplain, songwriter, and family man. Brain tumors have been a part of my life for the past 10 years. Although it has been difficult and painful at times, it has led me to a very special community of people fighting against and surviving brain tumors.

To me, Get Your Head In The Game® is a reminder about how destructive brain tumors are. Awareness is one thing, but the next step is getting involved. Get Your Head In The Game® isn’t just a slogan; it is a call-to-action!

I wasn’t given a choice of whether or not to get a brain tumor, but I have a choice of how I can deal with it. Through the support of my family, friends, my medical team, and groups like the National Brain Tumor Society, I have not had to fight this alone. My goal is to pass on what I’ve been through, and I hope that by sharing my story, I can provide optimism and encouragement to another person or family struggling with their own diagnosis.

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