Brain Buddie Stories Archives - Gray Matters Foundation

Zachary Young “not forgotten”

In memory of my son, 24-year-old Zachary Young who passed away 10-02-2020. Zach was diagnosed with a brain tumor on 06-12-2015. He was 18 years old and had just finished his first year of college, making The Dean’s List both semesters. One year earlier in May 2014, Zach had just graduated high school 12th out of 338…

Thomas P McAlvanah

This is Thomas P McAlvanah City Attorney for the City of Zephyrhills. This was 16 years ago before falling victim to #GBM I only met him through his wife Kris one of my best friends in the #braintumor community These tumors don’t discriminate they are brutal even to the brilliant. Through this tragedy, we have chosen to find beauty. Kris…

Lanette’s Story

“Let us tell you about Lanette, the Founder and President of the Gray Matters Foundation. We are her friends and supporters.” Lanette Veres was born in and grew up in Arizona, where the GrayMatters Foundation is based. After graduating from Maryvale High School she began her career in the banking industry. She married and became…

Brain Buddie Survivor Story: John Van Wagner

My name is John Van Wagner and May 30th 1995 after an 8.5 hour surgery I was told I had a menigioma brain tumor. It was benign but it wrapped around my facial nerve and left my face almost completly paralyzed. I had to endure reconstructive surgery and thankfully was able to regain some movement…