Internationally recognized pediatric brain cancer research foundation, The Cure Starts Now, is proud to welcome its 30th chapter location in Reading, Pennsylvania. Jo’s Everglow, the Reading, PA chapter of The Cure Starts Now, was started in honor of Josie “Jo” Grove by her mother, Alissa.
The mission of the Reading, PA chapter is to honor Josie and all children who are currently battling or who have earned their wings as a result of pediatric brain cancer. The hope is that by telling Josie’s story and raising awareness, that the community will be inspired to support local efforts to help find a cure for pediatric brain cancer.
In March of 2014, at the young age of 3 1/2, Josie was diagnosed with DIPG, a rare and terminal pediatric brain cancer. She underwent 33 radiation treatments followed by chemotherapy and high dose steroids. After months of intense therapy the tumor shrank by 60% and she was feeling better.
At home when Jo was not cooking or watching The Food Network she could be found sitting at her art table painting and crafting for hours. She also loved singing, dancing, and playing with her twin sister Samantha and younger brother Joshua.
In May of 2015 Josie started having head and back pain and an MRI revealed that the tumor had grown and spread to her spinal cord. A shunt surgery was performed to relieve the pressure and pain in her head. Sadly, in August 2015 as her family embraced her, Josie peacefully received her wings.
“With Jade’s passing we remind others that life is something to be celebrated. Although we will miss her every day, she will forever remain in our hearts,” said Vicky Bridier, Jade’s mother.
The Reading, PA chapter hopes you will take action by joining them in their effort to raise money for research designed to support better treatments and ultimately a cure, which will save the lives of our children.
About The Cure Starts Now: With 30 chapters worldwide, The Cure Starts Now has quickly gained acclaim as one of the fastest growing cancer research charities and one of the first ones to advocate a homerun strategy for cancer research. Many experts believe that the lessons we learn from fighting pediatric brain cancer may in fact provide us the critical first step in winning the battle against all forms of cancer, both pediatric and adult. Since 2007, The Cure Starts Now, in conjunction with the DIPG Collaborative, has funded over $7.3 million in DIPG/homerun cure cancer research at institutions globally.
To learn more about the Reading, PA chapter and how you can get involved, please visit https://thecurestartsnow.org/get-involved/chapters/pennsylvania-reading.
