IMMEDIATE RELEASE        Contact: Rob Tufel

415.834.9970 

 A NEW LANCE ARMSTRONG 

When asked to identify her goals, Summer Skye, a brain tumor patient, provided a clear and strong answer. “I plan to be the Lance Armstrong in the battle against brain cancer. My goal is to raise awareness of this disease and help build dollars needed for research as he has done for testicular cancer. Each day, 100 people are diagnosed with brain tumors, and it is time for this to stop.” 

Less than two years ago, Skye was diagnosed with a brain tumor. As these words slowly began to sink in, her world turned upside down. All she could think of was a focus on survival. In between yoga, organic herbs and hyperbaric oxygen therapy, Summer Skye has been fighting back and plans to win. She also intends to help the National Brain Tumor Foundation at the same time.

“My life has always included a search for balance; a combination of Western and Eastern philosophy. For 8 years I taught yoga and have found both energy and peace through meditation and physical activity; so important now, as surviving brain surgery has become a most important test of my life.  

 “Our minds are so powerful; the trick is staying focused! Listening to ourselves, hearing what we need is critical. My surgeon did an excellent job. However, my body could not deal with the follow-up Chemotherapy. This caused an allergic reaction, and I needed to find another approach. Complementary therapies have been most successful for me. To control and rebuild my strength, I practiced QiGong and found an excellent acupuncture. I renewed my passion for sports and am most happy when finding the time for running or riding my bike, swimming or practicing yoga. I also speak with other people on the same path and draw strength, knowing I am not battling this alone.”  

 When asked how she finds others facing this dramatic change in their lives, Skye answered, “The National Brain Tumor Foundation. They have an Online Communication Program and Patient Services that puts me in touch with others and ideas and information can be easily shared. NBTF also has a program called Racing Ahead®. Through this I learned of two upcoming Events that will challenge my strength; Cinderella Century, a 100-mile Bike Riding Event taking place on Mount Diablo on April 2 and the Napa Triathlon, held on May 14. In between these two ‘physically active’ days, I have also registered with Angel Adventure, an NBTF program for patients and their families. Here I will once again join a great group of people and join them on a 10k walk. My goal is to test my body and raise $30,000 for NBTF at the same time! 

The National Brain Tumor Foundation, a non-profit organization, each month receives over 1,000 phone calls from patients, families and medical professionals along with over 50,000 website contacts from around the world. To learn more about them, contact www.braintumor.org, call 800.934.CURE or contact via e-mail toracingahead@braintumor.org.