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Children's Tumor Foundation to host fundraiser in Fernandina Beach

The fundraiser takes place on Oct. 18 and proceeds from the casino night party will go toward finding a cure for Neurofibromatosis, also known as NF.

She’s full of life and she’s a woman on a mission, but underneath Michele Holbrook’s bright smile there is pain.

"I have three brain tumors, I have multiple tumors probably about 9 or 10 in my spine, I have them in my abdomen and in my pelvis area," Holbrook said. 

At 30 years old, Holbrook was diagnosed with a form of Neurofibromatosis also known as NF. It’s a rare incurable genetic disorder that causes tumors to develop on the brain and throughout the body.

Since her diagnosis, Holbrook has had 5 surgeries and two radiation treatments.

Credit: fcn

“I’m in excruciating pain every day to the point where there are days that I cry,” Holbrook said.

Holbrook is not alone. Connor Linkous, 22, was diagnosed as an infant. He has multiple brain tumors which caused quite a challenge while he was in grade school.  

"I had difficulties pushing forward, I started out great but then as I went on that’s when I started to lose focus," Linkous said. 

Despite his diagnosis, Linkous has gone on to graduate college and become an exceptional martial artist.

Credit: fcn

Both Holbrook and Linkous have committed their lives to become local advocates for NF. They're fighting to not only bring awareness but to also find a cure. 

On Friday, Oct. 18 at 6 p.m., The Children’s Tumor Foundation is hosting a fundraiser at the Fernandina Beach Women’s Club where proceeds from the event will go toward research. The event is also an opportunity to join the fight to help find a cure for the disease.

"It’s to help us raise awareness and raise funds to have the research we need for the children’s tumor foundation," Holbrook said.

For more information on the event click here.



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