Ian’s Journey from Diagnosis to Hope
By Dr. Nick van Terheyden aka Dr. Nick
Twitter: @drnic1
Host of Dr. Nick: The Incrementalist – #TheIncrementalist
On this episode I talked to Cheryl and Phil Yagoda, Founders of Ian’s Friends Foundation (@IansFriends) who are working to fund innovative research focused on the immediate need to develop groundbreaking therapeutic methodologies to treat and cure pediatric brain tumors.
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Cheryl and Phil Yagoda share their emotional and challenging journey that led to the establishment of Ian’s Friends Foundation. Their son, Ian, was diagnosed with an inoperable brainstem tumor at the age of two, a diagnosis that left them with little hope. However, their story is one of resilience, determination, and a commitment to making a difference.
A Devastating Diagnosis
Ian’s health journey began with developmental problems at the age of two. Despite initial reassurances from medical professionals, Ian’s condition worsened, leading to an MRI that revealed a brainstem lesion, an inoperable and life-threatening tumor. They were given the heartbreaking news that Ian had only six months to live. But rather than an ending, this proved to be the beginning of a mission to not only fight for Ian’s life but also to make a lasting impact on pediatric brain tumor research.
Facing the harsh reality of limited treatment options and scarce research funding for pediatric brain tumors, Cheryl and Phil Yagoda founded Ian’s Friends Foundation. Their foundation’s primary focus is to fund research aimed at finding effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure for pediatric brain tumors. They have funded numerous research projects, collaborated with renowned institutions, and even established a bio repository to support researchers in their quest for solutions. Their dedication to driving change in the field of pediatric brain tumor research is truly amazing.
Listen in to hear the power of love, determination, and advocacy. Cheryl and Phil Yagoda’s relentless commitment to finding a cure for pediatric brain tumors has already yielded significant results in the world of medical research. Their foundation continues to be a beacon of hope for families facing similar challenges. To get involved and support their mission, visit Ian’s Friends Foundation’s website, where you can contribute your time, resources, or donations to make a difference in the lives of children and families affected by pediatric brain tumors.
This article was originally published on the Dr. Nick – The Incrementalist blog and is republished here with permission.
About the Show
About the Show
For years Dr. Nick van Terheyden aka Dr. Nick, has served as a voice on the impact of new technologies on healthcare, earning a reputation as a leading authority on where the future of medicine is going. Combining powers of observation and real world experience, Dr. Nick has seen many predictions come true and makes the case that innovations in healthcare can be accomplished incrementally, not just by moonshot events. Tune in to hear Dr. Nick: The Incrementalist and his guests discuss what the future of healthcare looks like, how we will get there, and what it will take to improve healthcare for all.
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