I had volunteered for and donated to this event for the past couple years in honor and then memory of the son/brother of two of my close co-workers. He passed at a young age, several years after a Glioblastoma diagnosis.

When my dad started having mobility issues last December, brain tumor was not something that came to mind as a possibility. But on Februrary 1, we got the diagnosis - Glioblastoma. I was fortunate enough to get to spend quite a bit of time with my dad between that diagnosis and his passing on March 25. As his health declined, his mind and his sense of humor never did - he was completely my dad the whole time. And I was fortunate enough to be there with my mom when he passed.

I miss him dearly - we all do. It was so fast, it still doesn't feel real in many ways. I am amazed at finding so many others - even just this year - who have lost loved ones to this supposedly rare condition.

Two very different stories tying me to this event. Feels very much like I am meant to be part of it.