A Record-Breaking Event for Brain Tumor Awareness
More than 1,300 people turned out for the Georgia Brain Tumor Walk and Race at the Battery Atlanta on Saturday, marking a record-breaking event that highlighted the importance of raising awareness and funding for brain tumor patients and their families. The 5K walk, organized by the National Brain Tumor Society, serves as a powerful platform for those affected by this devastating disease to come together and support one another.
For many participants, the event is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a deeply personal journey. This sentiment was especially true for the WSB-TV family, who have been impacted by the fight against brain tumors in their own lives.
Honoring a Beloved Anchor
Jovita Moore, a beloved Channel 2 anchor, passed away in October 2021 after a battle with glioblastoma, the most common and deadly form of brain cancer. There is currently no cure for this disease, only treatments aimed at slowing its progression. Her legacy continues to inspire those who participate in the annual event.
Devin Rehm and her 7-year-old daughter, Quinn, were among the attendees who chose to honor the memory of their late husband and father, who died from brain cancer a few years ago. Rehm shared how the event helps combat the feeling of isolation that often accompanies such a loss.
“It’s really frustrating sometimes to feel like you’re alone in this, all by yourself, to not have anybody who understands how it feels … and just to have people show up and support you and show that it is you’re not alone,” she said.
Emcee and Award Ceremony
Before the walk began, Channel 2’s Fred Blankenship took the stage as the emcee for the event, honoring Jovita Moore’s legacy. He presented the inaugural Jovita Moore WSB-TV Impact Award to Julia Tiller, a volunteer and advocate who has been working tirelessly to push for more research and access to clinical trials.
Tiller shared a personal connection to the cause, as her father also passed away from glioblastoma in 2021.
“She [Jovita] passed away the same year as my dad did in 2021. My dad did pass away to glioblastoma as well,” she said.
A Fight for Survival
Thomas Lott, who drove up from Peachtree City, is currently battling brain cancer. For him, the event represents his fight for survival and his commitment to supporting his family.
“It’s my fight for survival… it’s my fight to help support my family,” he said. “And I see a new story with every face that we see out here.”
Overcoming Grief Through Unity
Kelly Ann Issacs, who lost her cousin last year, found strength in the community that came together for the event. Initially hesitant to participate, she felt inspired by the collective effort.
“I really didn’t want to do it… but when we all come together as one… there is strength in numbers.”
A Community United in Purpose
The Georgia Brain Tumor Walk and Race brought together a community defined by loss, inspired by Jovita’s legacy, and united in the fight for a cure. It served as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is hope, solidarity, and the power of coming together for a common cause.
