Kirsten Tekula, age 61, was diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) in November 2022. She faced this diagnosis with courage and determination “to live” each day finding joy in the face of adversity. Kirsten recognized the blessings of life and expressed her gratitude to all who journeyed with her until she rose up to heaven on January 21, 2024. In honor of the joy and gift of time she was given, the family has set up a memorial fund to support Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University GBM research fund. Your tax free donation in her memory will help find new treatments and opportunities for hope for others with this most aggressive cancer.
GBM is a type of tumor which arises directly from glial brain cells. It is the most common and aggressive form of this condition and tends to grow rapidly, often spreading quickly to other parts of the brain. Unfortunately, the average life expectancy of those affected, even with treatment, is only 12-15 months. Despite extensive research, the cause of this malignancy remains unknown.
Kirsten was fortunate to have an exceptional team of doctors and medical professionals throughout her journey. Her care was coordinated between Kaiser Permanante and the Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University and followed the Stupp protocol. Dr. Edjah Nduom was able to perform a gross total resection of her tumor emergently. Since this tumor leaves behind microscopic cells, she also received additional treatment guided by Dr. Shawn Kothari and Dr. Eddie Zhang of six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation followed by six additional cycles of chemotherapy. Thanks to Kirsten’s medical team that she proudly dubbed “Team Kirsten”, she shared 14 wonderful months with her loved ones.
Even in the United States, the incidence of GBM is on the rise, and there is a clear need for research and better therapeutic approaches. Kirsten faced her diagnosis as she did life- with a “can do” attitude and her belief in finding joy even in the midst of adversity.
“For it is in giving that we receive”- St Francis of Assisi. Together, we can make a difference for others who are as special as Kirsten in her honor.
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Mail check to :
Emory University
Winship Cancer Institute
Advancement Office
1440 Clifton Road, Ste 170
Atlanta, Georgia 30322
Attn: Jennifer Monthland
Memo: Kirsten Tekula memorial/ GBM