Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke

03/25/2026

One month to go!

Angels Among Us 5K and Walk for Hope brings together patients, survivors, caregivers, families, and supporters with one shared purpose: advancing brain tumor research and care.

Every step taken and every dollar raised supports innovative research, clinical trials, and comprehensive patient services at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke.

Join us. Share the mission. Support the cause.

Sign up, donate, or learn more:
https://www.supportdukehealth.org/site/TR/Angels/AngelsAmongUs?pg=entry&fr_id=3071

03/23/2026

Dr. David Ashley, Director of The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke Health will be returning to Australia to become the CEO of the Victoria Comprehensive Cancer Center Alliance (VCCC Alliance). He will retain an Adjunct faculty position in The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, creating an international platform for joint studies to treat children and adults with brain tumors. In essence, this means that THE SUN NEVER SETS ON The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke Health.

03/18/2026

Eight years ago, Natasha Tomlinson came to Duke searching for answers.

After experiencing persistent symptoms, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and began treatment at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center. With a multidisciplinary team guiding her care, Natasha moved forward one step at a time.

Today, she is approaching her eight year milestone since treatment. “Ninety five percent of the time, I feel good and I feel strong,” she shares.

Natasha’s story reflects the power of timely diagnosis, coordinated care, and long term follow up. It is also a reminder that life after treatment can be full, active, and hopeful.

Read Natasha’s full story by visiting https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/news/natasha-tomlinson-finding-answers-holding-hope 🩵🧠

03/16/2026

As the most common malignant primary brain tumor in adults, glioblastoma remains a central focus of clinical research and therapeutic development.

Its complexity requires coordinated multidisciplinary care, molecularly informed treatment planning, and ongoing clinical investigation. Continued progress depends on sustained research and patient participation in well designed trials.

Learn more about glioblastoma care and research at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke by visiting our website at
https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/

03/12/2026

Clinical trials play an essential role in the advancement of neuro oncology.

They allow investigators to systematically evaluate new therapies, assess safety and efficacy, and better understand tumor biology through prospective study design. Findings from these studies contribute to the evidence base that informs clinical guidelines and future research directions.

The current portfolio of adult and pediatric trials reflects ongoing efforts to study therapeutic and supportive care strategies across disease types and stages.

Learn more about clinical research at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke by visiting our website at
https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/

03/10/2026

In March we celebrate International Women’s Day.

At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, women are leading across every dimension of care and research. From neurosurgery and neuro oncology to nursing, laboratory science, clinical coordination, and supportive services, their expertise shapes the future of brain tumor treatment.

Progress in this field requires precision, collaboration, and compassion. We are proud to work alongside the women who advance all three every day.

03/02/2026

Two patients with the same brain tumor diagnosis may receive different treatment recommendations.

Brain tumors are defined not only by their name, but by their molecular profile, location, grade, imaging characteristics, and the patient’s overall clinical presentation. These variables directly influence prognosis and therapeutic strategy.

At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, each case is reviewed within a multidisciplinary framework to ensure treatment decisions are guided by current evidence and tumor specific biology.

Precision in diagnosis drives precision in care.

02/26/2026

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are two commonly used treatments for brain tumors, each working in different ways and used in different situations. Decisions about these therapies are based on factors such as tumor type, location, overall health, and treatment goals. Understanding how each option works can help patients and families feel more informed as they navigate care.

To learn more about the differences between radiation therapy and chemotherapy, when they are used, and how treatment plans are tailored to the individual, read the full article on our blog: https://tischbraintumorcenter.duke.edu/blog/radiation-therapy-vs-chemotherapy-0

Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are two common brain tumor treatments with different approaches. Learn how each works, when they are used, and how doctors decide the best option for individualized care.

02/25/2026

We are officially TWO months away from the Angels Among Us 5K and Walk for Hope 💙🧠

On April 25th, our community will come together to run, walk, remember, honor, and fund the research and care that move the needle for brain tumor patients every single day.

Every step supports innovative clinical trials, supportive care programs, and the patients and families we serve here at the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke.

Whether you are walking in honor of someone you love, running for a personal best, or joining to show support, there is a place for you at Angels.

Sign up today: https://www.supportdukehealth.org/site/TR/Angels/AngelsAmongUs?pg=entry&fr_id=3071

02/20/2026

On National Caregivers Day, we honor the family members, friends, and loved ones who walk alongside patients through every stage of the care journey. Caregivers offer steady presence during moments of uncertainty, help manage appointments and information, and provide comfort and encouragement when it is needed most. Their support often happens quietly, but its impact is profound.

At the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center at Duke, we recognize caregivers as an essential part of the care team. Their dedication, resilience, and compassion help shape the experience of care in meaningful ways, and we are deeply grateful for the strength and commitment they bring each day.

02/19/2026

Surgery is often an important part of brain tumor care, and a craniotomy is one of the most common procedures used to access and treat tumors in the brain. This approach allows surgeons to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible, relieve pressure, and obtain tissue that helps guide diagnosis and next steps in care. Careful planning, advanced imaging, and collaboration across specialties all play a role in determining the safest and most effective surgical plan.

To learn more about craniotomy, how it is performed, and what patients and families can expect, read the full article on our blog.

Craniotomy is a common surgical procedure for brain tumors that allows surgeons to safely access and remove tumors. Learn why it’s used, what to expect, and how it fits into comprehensive brain tumor care.

02/11/2026

Preparing for an appointment can help visits feel more focused and less overwhelming. Bringing questions, updated information, and a support person can make it easier to discuss care plans and next steps.

Small steps ahead of time can support clearer communication and a more productive visit. Save this post to reference before your next appointment.