BT-Family

BT-family.org was inspired by the bereavement email groups that were created to provide much needed support for those who lost a loved one to a brain tumor. Those groups provide a global forum for members to share and express all of the emotions that accompany the loss of a loved one, in an environment of acceptance and understanding.

This website was created with several purposes in mind. First, and most importantly, it was conceived as a way to honor and remember family members that were diagnosed with – and eventually succumbed to – a brain tumor. It was also developed as a means to further strengthen the bond of community among members, people who share much in common through their profound, mutual losses.

Click here for information on BT-family members featured in this movie

George Hunter

The use of the word “family” in this website name reflects not only the relationship we have with our loved ones, but also how many of us have come to view one another. By sharing our stories - the triumphs and tragedies of our loved one’s lives – enduring friendships have been formed – in many cases, without the benefit or necessity of having actually met.

On these pages, you will have the opportunity to learn about some very incredible people – young children, teenagers and adults – who faced what would become a life-ending diagnosis with dignity, courage and wisdom beyond their years. By sharing their stories and photographs, we will all come to better appreciate and understand the legacies our loved ones left behind. They have touched us, and touched the world, even if only briefly – and left it a better place for us all.

In Loving Memory, George Hunter

He shared so much with us over the years... There were the incredible tales and experiences from his annual pilgrimages to Lake Shasta, brought to us in words, prayers, remembrances and pictures that made us feel like we were there - and gave us all hope. The sheer joy he experienced from being a grandfather, and the renewal it provided for him - he found a way to share that, too, and in doing so, provided renewal and hope for all of us. His artistry with the written word was legendary, and he used that gift to soothe, to inspire, to lift up and comfort those in pain.

On April 3, 2011, the brain tumor community lost one of its most tireless advocates and best friends with the passing of George Hunter, following a lengthy illness. Our deepest condolences and sympathies are with his wife Linda, his son David, daughter Jodi, the twins Stacia and Hope and all other family members. Thank you for sharing this incredible man and human being with us. He has touched more lives than any of us will ever know.

We are better people for knowing you, George. Thank you for all you have done for us and countless others.... and we can assure you of this my friend - you will always be remembered. Godspeed, George,

With love, your many friends worldwide

George's member page - writings & photos from 2006 - 2010