National Brain Tumor Society Wraps Inaugural Brain Tumor Race in Charlotte

CHARLOTTE, NC, March 26, 2014 (Press-News.org) National Brain Tumor Society, the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the brain tumor community in the United States, wrapped its first ever Charlotte Brain Tumor Race this past Saturday at Freedom Park in Charlotte, N.C. The inaugural event hosted 1,200 brain tumor survivors, patients, family members, caregivers, and friends for an inspiring, family-friendly day. Sponsored by Carolinas HealthCare System and Piedmont Natural Gas, the Charlotte Brain Tumor Race raised nearly $170,000, surpassing its initial fundraising goal. All proceeds will go toward funding critical brain tumor research and public policy initiatives, as well as raising much-needed awareness of this deadly disease.

"We were so impressed by Saturday's turnout, and the level of support we received from the greater Charlotte community. Nearly 700,000 people in the United States are living with a brain tumor, and more than 14,000 people will die because of the disease this year alone. Despite these facts, progress in the field remains far too slow," said N. Paul TonThat, chief executive officer of National Brain Tumor Society. "The money raised from the Race will allow us to continue funding vital programs to accelerate the discovery of new scientific breakthroughs and the availability of more treatments for this disease."

National Brain Tumor Society is the only brain tumor organization to fully integrate research and public policy initiatives; partner with leading experts in academia, industry, and government to understand current challenges; and identify opportunities for scientific advancement and collaboration. Additionally, as part of its work to find a cure, the National Brain Tumor Society mobilizes volunteer advocates across the country to raise awareness and support for public policies which aim to strengthen research and provide access to essential health care for all those affected by brain tumors.

Fundraising for the Charlotte Brain Tumor Race is still open and those interested in making a contribution can visit: http://www.braintumorrace.org/charlotte. Individuals looking to support the brain tumor cause can also help increase awareness beyond this event by becoming an advocate, making a gift, hosting a community event, or sharing their personal experiences. Learn more at http://www.braintumor.org/takeaction.

About National Brain Tumor Society:
National Brain Tumor Society is the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to the brain tumor community in the United States. We are fiercely committed to finding better treatments, and ultimately a cure, for people living with a brain tumor today and those who will be diagnosed tomorrow. This means aggressively driving strategic research and advocating for public policies, which meet the critical needs of the brain tumor community. To learn more, visit http://www.braintumor.org.