Ivy Blog

Facing a glioblastoma diagnosis, Clarissa Allen and her sister Eva have redefined resilience. Through the highs and lows of brain cancer treatment, caregiving, and a clinical trial at the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, they’re finding hope and strength together. Read their inspiring story!

Living with brain cancer, Marcus Jones faced the unthinkable when a sudden diagnosis turned his world upside down. As a young, active Ironman competitor, he never imagined he'd be battling an aggressive brain tumor. Through determination, support from his family, and participation in a groundbreaking clinical trial at the Ivy Brain Tumor Center, Marcus has defied the odds and continues to live life on his own terms. Read the full story!

Carol Stevens, who faced a glioblastoma recurrence just six months after standard treatment, found new hope in a clinical trial at the Ivy Brain Tumor Center. With a tailored approach that utilized an experimental drug specific to her tumor’s genetics, Carol experienced significant progress, underscoring the trial’s personalized and innovative strategy. Her story highlights the crucial role of clinical trials in providing options where standard treatments fall short. Read her full story!

The Oehme family's story takes us from the ordinary moments of discussing dinner plans to the life-altering diagnosis of glioblastoma faced by Rick. Their journey with this disease is a powerful reminder of how quickly life can change and the strength found in love and family. Read their full story.

Jeff Staudt shares his compelling journey after being diagnosed with glioblastoma, an aggressive brain tumor. Facing a severe prognosis, Jeff chose positivity and determination over surrender, a decision that has defined his eight-year battle with cancer. Highlighting the critical role of mindset, Jeff's story illustrates how a strong mindset, alongside a tailored medical treatment plan, can defy the odds. Read his full story!

Marie Donahue's life took an unexpected turn when a precautionary MRI revealed a large mass on her brain, leading to a diagnosis that would forever change her trajectory. Marie embarked on an extraordinary journey, transforming a daunting brain tumor diagnosis into a life filled with adventure, discovery, and profound shifts in priorities.

Gratitude is a powerful emotion. It has the ability to rewire the brain, creating new neural pathways, enhancing the production of serotonin and dopamine neurotransmitters and regulating stress hormones. Research suggests practicing gratitude can provide significant mental and physical benefits. Read our full blog post to get started practicing gratitude.

Jenn Ortiz, a mother of two, is celebrating three years of survivorship this August! Her journey with brain cancer began at the Ivy Center when she was diagnosed with glioblastoma. Despite the challenges she's faced, Jenn remains optimistic, inspiring those around her with her perseverance and undeniable sense of humor. Read her full story here.

Brain cancer survivor Dalton Riddle is defying the odds. He’s about to celebrate living three years with glioblastoma. For most, the average life expectancy after diagnosis is 12-15 months. Read his survivorship story and how he supports others facing a similar diagnosis.

Brain surgery recovery requires time and patience. While this time frame is different for everyone, you can support healing by using these brain recovery tips.