Members of the CERN community gave these remarks to patients and caregivers at the Bracewell law firm during the National Brain Tumor Society’s Head to the Hill event, followed by the butterfly release.

At age 11, Ian is sharing hope to the world and to those battling ependymoma that need an inspiration.

Ian says, “I don’t remember the day they discovered my brain tumor, but my mom says it’s a day she will never forget. It was Mother’s Day and I was only 15 months old. My surgery began. I died for a moment, but as you can see... I fought back. I had a bigger plan of my own.”

Read Ian's Speech

After Zsila was diagnosed with grade II ependymoma in 1994, she decided to give back and become a pediatric neuro-oncologist.

Zsila says, “We are all here together because we’ve been through this journey together. I may be a pediatric neuro-oncologist, but I have something in common with you. I was in your shoes. I had a brain tumor myself - an ependymoma.”

Read Zsila's Speech

Kimberly, President of the CERN Foundation, shares the importance of community.

Kim says, “We are all doing our best and trying to play our part in this group. So maybe tonight you have some extra hope to share or maybe you are in need of a little bit more. You are in the right place. Find confidence in the role you have and know that no act or contribution is too small.”

Read Kim's Speech

In a groundswell of international support, patients, caregivers, professionals and advocates participated in a variety of events marking May 5, 2019, as Ependymoma Awareness Day. On a local level, many chose to participate in activities to create awareness about ependymoma where they live.

Read More