Join the Movement
Every walk, every dollar, every conversation moves the mission forward. Emily showed up for everything. This is how we show up for her.
Progress on Purpose fundraises for brain tumor research, family support, and advocacy. Every event is a step toward the cure Emily believed in.
2026 Events
The Brain Tumor 5K brings together patients, families, survivors, and supporters to raise funds for brain tumor research. Walk with us in Tampa as Team 4EMZ. Every step is for Emily, and every dollar goes toward the cure she gave everything to advance. You don't have to run. You just have to show up.
Fundraiser • Community
9 Pin No Tap. $50 entry for 3 games. Prize pool up to $300 for 1st place. 50/50 tickets, gift baskets, and more. All proceeds support brain cancer research in Emily's honor through the Special Northwestern Memorial Foundation.
Advocacy • Washington D.C.
Jessica will travel to Washington, D.C. to advocate directly with lawmakers for brain tumor research funding. Because when the National Cancer Institute cuts pediatric research, real families pay the price. Emily's family will be in that room.
Benefit Dinner • Chicago
A high-impact evening supporting research, treatment, and care at Northwestern's Malnati Brain Tumor Institute. The same institute where Emily had her surgeries. The same team that continues to study her tumor today.
Speaking • Leadership
Jessica speaks on leadership, adaptability, navigating complexity, and what it means to make progress with purpose. Topics drawn from 20+ years leading complex organizations and the lived experience of walking through the hardest season of her life.
Coming Soon
The list is growing. As Progress on Purpose continues to build, more events, fundraisers, and opportunities to get involved will be added here. Check back often, or reach out to be the first to know.
In Emily's Memory
Emily donated her body to Northwestern's Malnati Brain Tumor Institute so researchers could study her tumor and help the next family have a different story. Her personalized donation link keeps that research funded.
Donate in Emily's MemoryReach out. We will find the right way for you to get involved with the mission, whether that is walking, donating, volunteering, or simply sharing.
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