This site is inspired by Michael John Gressman. Michael was a 32 year-old, overachieving, healthy, positive, productive member of society that lost his battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) on July 14th, 2009.  He fought this killer herocially and with a will, attitude and optimism that's undescribable.  Day after day, month after month, he was upbeat and more concerned about those around him than himself. 

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most common and most aggressive of the primary brain tumors. The current World Health Organization (WHO) classification of primary brain tumors lists GBM as a grade IV. The overall prognosis for GBM patients is horrific. Few patients survive longer than 3 years and only a handful survive 5 years.

Michael was being treated at The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke and his treatment team was exceptional. Among other pillars of strength, his love of triathlon and the attitude it elicits convinced Michael he would battle this cruel disease 'til the end. Much like the competitors that participate in these races, he intended to fight this disease and was looking to be a major voice for GBM awareness.

Minimal significant advancements in the treatment of GBM have occurred in the past 25 years. More frustrating is the small amount of funds raised/allocated to this rare and uncurable cancer. We intend on changing this course. We know our efforts will take time and we must crawl before we run, but too many people are impacted by this killer to not act.

With the assistance of The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke we have created Michael's fund. The sole intent of this entity is to raise awareness and funds for brain cancer research.

While Michael never had the opportunity to finish his scheduled Ironman, the race he endured puts him in a class all to himself and he's more of an IRONMAN than we'll ever be.  Most importantly, please know that we will do everything possible to keep his dreams and spirit alive. 

You are missed and we love you......