Brain Power 5K

Proceeds from the Brain Power 5K benefit the Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, which in turn donates the money to the MD Anderson Cancer Center for brain cancer research. This year, some funds will also go to the Central Texas–based Scott & White Healthcare Brain Tumor Center, Bolinger said. Brain Power 5K raised $70,000 in the first two years combined and more than $81,000 in 2013.

On race day Sept. 8, Bolinger and her fellow brain tumor survivors were recognized with a survivors' stride met with applause from fellow participants. Laura Cook—who was diagnosed with brain cancer and underwent surgery in 2009—serves on the planning committee and said the support provided by Brain Power 5K is irreplaceable.

"I avoided the survivor scene for the longest time because I didn't want to be exposed to other scary stories and the possibilities of what could happen. But really it has helped because you come across many people who have been long-term survivors," she said. "You can feel the connection with people who understand the fear and the way it is a permanent part of your life."

In addition to the 5K race held in September, Bolinger organizes regular Brain Power Hour meetup events for survivors and their families. She has been cancer-free since her brain surgery in 2007.

"When I was diagnosed, I was very naive about brain cancer. I kind of feel like that's why I'm here now. I survived, so I have to do something about it so more people are aware," she said. "I think it's neat to see the families interwebbing with each other and getting to grow together and also go through a difficult time with someone else who has been there."

Funding research

Brain Power 5K raises money for the Houston-based Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation, named in honor of the 27-year-old who was in the first year of her pediatric medical residency when she was diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer.

Through donations to MD Anderson, the foundation estimates $5–$10 is generated in federal grants for each $1 of seed money provided by donors. One clinical trial at MD Anderson Cancer Center injected an oncolytic adenovirus, similar to a cold virus, into the patient's brain tumor, which efficiently eradicated the most common type of brain cancer.

Further research funded through Brain Power 5K provides molecular profiling of patients for personalized therapy and treatment.

Brain Power 5K, [email protected], www.brainpower5K.com