iPromise

Jan Bres' husband, Tom, died at 54 from glioblastoma. During his 15-month fight, Tom and Jan learned of The Broach Foundation for Brain Cancer Research, founded in 2011 by James and Jamie Broach after James was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer. James, who died in 2013, and Jamie made it their mission to promote funding and education so effective treatments, and ultimately a cure, might be found. The nonprofit has raised $4 million to support brain cancer research under the leadership of Frederick Lang, M.D., director of Clinical Research, Neurosurgery.

BY Jan Bres

Photo courtesy of Jan Bres.

Because of the type of person Tom was, everyone wanted to reach out and help. My husband was a vibrant man fighting for his life. He wanted to keep going for his two daughters, his family, his friends and for me. That fighting spirit is what prompted a client, at Tom's request, to give to The Broach Foundation. This $1.5 million donation, by someone who does not want to be named or recognized, enabled Tom's doctor, Fred Lang, to meet his funding goal for a clinical trial.

The Broach Foundation gave Tom hope. It gives everyone fighting this disease hope. Of course, Dr. Lang's work and research bring hope. And that hope spreads. Our youngest daughter, Meg, performed a concert over the Christmas holidays, raising $10,000 for the foundation. My nephew is hosting a basketball camp to raise money, too. I am so glad to have met Jamie Broach, such an infectious person. Her enthusiasm about the progress being made at MD Anderson makes it impossible not to get involved.

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