Every child and family facing a pediatric brain or spinal cord tumor experiences a different journey.

Some are learning how to move forward after treatment. Others are finding ways to give back so another family never has to face this path alone.

What connects every story is the same thing:

A community that refuses to let families walk this journey by themselves.

This month, we’re honored to introduce two remarkable women whose stories reflect the strength, resilience, and hope found throughout the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation community.

One is a survivor. One is a mother.

Both are living proof of what hope looks like when people come together.

Finding Purpose Through Every Mile

Anna Durso | Brain Tumor Survivor & Team CBTF Endurance Runner

The day after her 21st birthday, Anna Durso underwent a craniotomy to remove a brain tumor - an experience that forever changed her perspective on life.

Today, Anna is transforming that experience into purpose by running the Bank of America Chicago Marathon as a member of CBTF’s Endurance Team, raising funds to support children and families affected by pediatric brain and spinal cord tumors. When choosing a charity, her decision was immediate.

“This was the only charity I reached out to. I didn’t want to run for anyone; I wanted to run for something I felt deeply connected to.”

Less than a year ago, Anna says she couldn’t run a mile without stopping. Today, she’s training for a marathon while balancing work, teaching yoga, and everyday life - all while carrying a mission that’s deeply personal.

Every mile she runs is a reminder that survivors can create hope for the next generation of families.

Your support helps turn stories like Anna’s into hope for others.

Turning Gratitude Into Action

Ashley Peek | CBTF Endurance Team Member & Samuel’s Mom

When Ashley Peek’s son, Samuel, was diagnosed with a pediatric brain tumor, her family’s world changed forever.

As Samuel prepares to celebrate his 14th birthday and is now 10 months beyond his most recent surgery, Ashley is honoring his journey in a remarkable way: by running the 2026 TCS New York City Marathon as a member of Team CBTF’s Endurance Team.

Every training run and every dollar raised helps provide hope, connection, and support for families walking a similar path.

When asked what keeps her going, Ashley shared:

“Motivation will come in the form of running for people who do not have the option to physically run.”

She also hopes her family’s experience reminds others that they are never alone.

“Especially on hard days, when you are in the middle of that grief and chaos, knowing that others have been through similar days can be so helpful.”

Through her compassion and dedication, Ashley is helping ensure that other families have access to the support, resources, and community they need - and know they are never alone.

Your support makes that possible.

Help the Next Family Find Hope

Every story you read today is possible because someone chose to give.

Your generosity ensures that children, survivors, siblings, and caregivers have a community to lean on during treatment, through survivorship, and beyond.

Whether your gift is $25, $50, $100, or any amount that’s meaningful to you, you’re helping ensure that no family walks this journey alone.

Together, we’re building a future where every child and family facing a pediatric brain or spinal cord tumor is met with hope, compassion, and community.

Thank you for helping families find hope,

The Children's Brain Tumor Foundation