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August 16, 2006
The recently concluded DPG Family Gathering Conference held at
Bally’s in Las Vegas was deemed a huge success by all that attended.
Over the three day period, families that lost loved ones to Diffuse
Pontine Glioma got to meet one another, share stories about each others
journey, and take some important steps that will someday lead to a cure.
Families traveled from all over the US and one from the Dominican
Republic to hear speakers touch on a wide range of subjects. The
conference was organized by Carla Brooks with help from her sister in
law Toni Brooks. Approximately 30 people attended the conference and
plans are already being made to plan the next one. You can send your
suggestions and comments directly to Carla at .
Guest speaker, Tom Zuba, started things off by touching on issues such
as grief and mourning and how he has managed to handle the tragic events
that have followed him over the past 16 years. Everyone in attendance
was touched by his emotional stories and amazed by the way he is able to
channel his energy. He is truly an amazing person and more of his story
can be found at www.tomzuba.com.
Next on the agenda was guest speaker Tim Hayden, who spoke to the group
about how to create and manage a 501c(3) non-profit foundation. Tim then
spent time talking about the features of the On-Line Resource Center
that is located on the JTHF website (www.jthf.org). Families were given
a preview and an update on the TumorTracker project that the foundation
has been working on and we are anxiously awaiting feedback on the demo
section. Those in attendance were also introduced to the FamilyLink
Network that will allow parents of kids with brain tumors to share their
websites with one another. Click this link
for more information.
The remaining time was spent sharing stories and experiences. Everyone
enjoyed the entertaining slideshow prepared by Toni Brooks that featured
pictures of the brave warriors who did battle with the beast. There were
plenty of hugs and tears as the families said their goodbyes, but one
thing is certain…. Everyone is looking forward to doing it again next
year. Click here to view
the slideshow. Pictures of the event, will be posted on
the website shortly!
The Jeffrey Thomas Hayden Foundation is a registered 501c(3) non profit organization that was created to Make a Difference in
the fight against pediatric brain tumors. For more information visit our
web site at
www.jthf.org
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