Rowing for Dr. Andy Foy

All gifts raised through this effort will be made in memory of Dr. Andy Foy, honoring his life, legacy, and contributions to the neurosurgical community. Through this tribute, his impact will continue by supporting the research and innovation that advance the field he dedicated his career to serving.

About NREF

The Neurosurgery Research & Education Foundation (NREF) is the philanthropic home of neurosurgery, investing in the people, research, and education that advance the field and improve patient care. Through research grants, fellowships, education, and career development opportunities, NREF supports neurosurgeons at every stage of their careers and helps turn promising ideas into meaningful progress for patients. To learn more, visit us at NREF.org.

NeuROWsurgery Takes on the Head of the Charles

On October 18, 2026, nine neurosurgeons will trade the operating room for the Charles River as Team NREF makes its debut at the legendary Head of the Charles Regatta (HOCR)—rowing 4,702 meters in support of brain tumor research.

What started as a “what if?” conversation among neurosurgeons who share a love of rowing has become NeuROWsurgery Oar Bust! After earning a coveted spot in the Directors’ Challenge co-ed charity division, Aviva Abosch, Michelle Clarke, Tara Dalton, Dan Donoho, Adair Prall, Mark Proctor, Patti Raksin, Nate Selden, and Nick Boulis (coxswain) will take on one of rowing’s most iconic courses.

Now, they’re inviting the neurosurgical community to get in the boat with them.

Support Team NREF by sponsoring meters for brain tumor research. Make a $4,702 gift in honor of every meter the team will row—or choose another sponsorship level and help turn 4,702 meters on the Charles into meaningful progress for neurosurgical research.

Row with us. Give for research. Go the distance.

Our Honorary Crew Members

James Rutka, MD, PhD, FAANS
James Rutka, MD, PhD, FAANS

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Ricardo Komotar, MD, FAANS
Ricardo Komotar, MD, FAANS

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Brian Vala Nahed, MD, FAANS
Brian Vala Nahed, MD, FAANS

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