Pam Blevins was known as a lively, compassionate woman who inspired the Pam Blevins Neuro-Oncology Fund
Lauren Wolfford has created a fund in memory of her late mother, Pam Blevins, in hopes to raise more awareness and support for brain disease and Erlanger Health System’s Neuro-Oncology department.
In July 2017, Ms. Blevins was diagnosed with Glioblastoma, an aggressive and incurable form of brain cancer. Her family worked with specialists from Erlanger’s Neuro-Oncology department and medical partner, Duke Medical Center, to find the most appropriate medical care for her.
They researched clinical trials and tried standard protocols. Unfortunately, the disease was too far along. Ms. Blevins passed away 123 days after her diagnosis.
Hoping to inspire support and bring awareness to brain diseases and cancer, Ms. Wolfford began looking for ways to create an impact in Chattanooga. She decided to create a fund to raise money for the Erlanger Neuro-Oncology department and help other families affected by brain disease. The Pam Blevins Neuro-Oncology Fund from the Schillihahn-Huskey Foundation is dedicated in memory of her mother’s life and legacy to raise awareness for brain disease research.
“I hope this fund will help inspire others to support this needed service in Chattanooga,” said Ms. Wolfford. “This fund can buy the equipment, staff and other support needed to help give patients with this awful diagnosis some hope. There is no cure, but with support and research there could be.”
Erlanger oncologists said they recognize the trauma patients and families experience with a brain tumor diagnosis. The Pam Blevins Neuro-Oncology Fund will be used to establish a brain tumor program to help patients through their journey.
“Pam was an amazing individual,” said Dr. Norleena Gullett, radiation oncologist at Erlanger Health System. “Her family’s strength and support through her treatment reminds us of the importance of holistic care – we treat the person, not the disease. Erlanger Neuro-Oncology is committed to providing the most advanced treatment for brain tumors, as well as creating a healing environment to support the patient’s family and loved ones.”
To learn more about Erlanger Neuro-Oncology or to contribute to the Pam Blevins Neuro-Oncology Fund, call 778-5708.