"When we created the Connecticut Brain Tumor Alliance ("CTBTA") in 2006, I could have never imagined I'd still be alive to announce its new President!" said Tracey Gamer-Fanning, eight-year brain cancer survivor and President of the CTBTA.
This January, Maria Grove takes over as the new Board President of The CTBTA, which also gained two new Directors, Christopher Cusano of West Hartford and Kelly Rutherford of Simsbury. Grove has worked on the Communications staff of the State Treasurer and served as the Chair of the Marlborough Board of Education. She is also currently in her third year as the Event Lead of the Relay for Life of Glastonbury.
The nonprofit's mission is to provide brain tumor patients and their caregivers in Connecticut with support and hope. "From desperately needed research, to paying for specialty hospital equipment, to individual patient assistance funds, the CTBTA has turned the Connecticut brain tumor community into a family," explained Gamer-Fanning, who will continue in her capacity as Board Director reaching out to give personal support to patients and families.
Grove knew she wanted to be involved with the CTBTA family after she lost her mother, Katy Wichlac, to a glioblastoma brain tumor in 2012. She hosted "The Wines of March," a fundraiser in honor of her mother to benefit the CTBTA, and shortly thereafter became an active Board Member. "Her leadership and capability have shone over the last eighteen months, and we can't thank her enough for her dedication to the CTBTA," said Gamer-Fanning. "Her talent, knowledge, and passion for advocacy and action have been evident in her work. The CTBTA is entering into an exciting time of growth and positive energy with Maria at the helm."
"I am very humbled and honored to continue working with the entire CTBTA team as the new President," said Grove when she was unanimously voted in at the December Board meeting. "Through hope, assistance, awareness, community, and support for new research and clinical trials, the CTBTA will continue to make a positive difference in the lives of brain tumor patients and their families in Connecticut for many years to come."