About Us | Fierce Foundation

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OUR STORY

The Fierce Foundation was born after witnessing the way Karen faced her devastating diagnosis. While small in stature, her spirit inspired us to always be grateful, have hope, and when things seem impossible, to fight.

On a local level

Provide support, education and services aimed at improving the quality of life for patients and easing the strain on caregivers
Support patients and caregivers with navigating the complicated healthcare system

On a global scale

Raise awareness and funding for research to treat rare cancers, like Glioblastoma
Impact legislation related to grief counseling and support services for children suffering from the loss of a loved one or caregiver

OUR MISSION

Supporting patients and families facing a rare cancer diagnosis

700K

estimated number of Americans living with a primary brain tumor

7.2%

5-year survival rate for

Glioblastoma

1.5M

children are living in a single parent household because of the death of a parent

$150K

per-patient initial cost of

care for brain cancer patients

250K

estimated number of deaths associated with rare cancers in the US (2018)

OUR STORY

When Karen was first diagnosed, Shakespeare’s words, “Though she be but little, she is fierce” almost immediately became our rally cry. It fit the barely five-foot-two woman with the huge heart and spirit perfectly. Karen fought bravely and loved those around her fiercely; finding laughter and gratitude each and every day. We chose our name to reflect her spirit.

The rhinoceros means a variety of things to different cultures. To some, it is a symbol of protection. In other cultures the rhino means gratitude, longevity, strength and resilience. The rhino is also believed to evoke a broader sense of perspective.

Following her surgeries, Karen struggled with minor speech and memory issues, the word “rhino” was elusive, but she never gave up trying to recall the name of the mighty animal. For her, and now for us, the rhino is a reminder of resilience and finding laughter in even the most difficult times.

OurStoryAnchor