Letter from the Founders

HOPE... DREAM... IMAGINE...
Johann Wolfgang von Goethe writes “In the realm of ideas, everything depends on enthusiasm; in the real world, all rests on perseverance”. As we reflect on the seven years since Rory passed away, that quote pays tribute to, and describes all of the Rory David Deutsch supporters and researchers. “Rory’s Team” is best defined by the continued energy and dedication to the dream of a cure for pediatric brain tumors. It is that commitment by all of you that is Rory’s legacy. Throughout this newsletter, there are countless examples of so many who lead by example in supporting The Foundation. It is truly overwhelming to see the efforts and to experience the benefits of all you make possible.

We recently read a paper by Bruce E. Brown titled “Champions of Character”. The words “champion and character” capture the essence and spirit of The Foundation. “Endurance is required to achieve almost anything worthwhile. Success is a marathon not a spirit. Endurance requires mental toughness - the ability to stay positive, enthusiastic, and confident no matter what. These people have a spirit that cannot be broken.” When writing these words, Bruce E. Brown must have been inspired by The Rory David Deutsch Foundation. The doctors at Duke University Brain Tumor Center and Chicago’s Memorial Hospital personify the message conveyed by Brown. Their dedication and work in the laboratory and in the clinic will lead to finding a cure for this devastating disease. We are so encouraged by our existing funded programs at the aforementioned institutions that we are in the process of increasing our financial support to both.

Although it has been seven years since Rory died, we still feel his presence everyday. Todd Rindgren writes, “A dream goes on forever”. The dream of a cure is the hope of today and the reality of tomorrow. To quote T. Alan Armstrong, “Champions do not become champions when they win the event, but in the hours, weeks, months, and years they spend preparing for it”. We have demonstrated this to be true and will continue until we “win the event” by finding a cure.

If a seven-year-old boy can change the way the world sees pediatric brain tumors, imagine what we can do together.

Mindy and Ross Deutsch