Through their compassion and perseverance, Brooke and Keith Desserich have created a lasting legacy that brings comfort, awareness, and hope to countless families. After the devastating diagnosis and loss of their young daughter Elena to an incurable pediatric brain cancer, they made a promise to never stop fighting. Rather than allowing grief to define them, they chose action, founding The Cure Starts Now Foundation, now a leading international organization dedicated to finding cures for rare pediatric brain cancers.
Through their leadership, what began as a deeply personal mission has grown into a global movement advancing groundbreaking research and supporting families across the world. The foundation has funded tens of millions of dollars in research, supported hundreds of clinical initiatives across dozens of countries, and fostered unprecedented collaboration among scientists and organizations working toward what they call the “home run cure.”
Beyond research, Brooke and Keith have built a compassionate community for families navigating the unimaginable, ensuring that no one faces a diagnosis alone. Their work bridges science and humanity, pairing innovation with deep empathy and connection.
At the heart of their mission is a powerful belief that remembrance must lead to action. Through courage, perseverance, and love, they have transformed personal tragedy into lasting global impact. Brooke and Keith Desserich are not only advancing the fight against cancer. They are inspiring a world where hope, collaboration, and determination can overcome even the greatest challenges.
Join us in celebrating Brooke and Keith at our Cohen Family Upstander Gala on June 14th, reserve your spot today!
Cohen Family Upstander Month is generously supported by Duke Energy, Procter & Gamble, Cincinnati Museum Center, and the Mayerson Family Foundation.
