5/3/2009
"I actually lost my brother yesterday to a brain tumor, and I couldn't imagine being anywhere else right now. I lost one today, but I?ve gained 9,000."
National Brain Tumor Society was deeply saddened by the passing of David Cook's brother Adam, who had battled his brain tumor for the last decade. "We were so sorry to hear this sad news from David Cook," said NBTS Executive Director N. Paul TonThat. "We extend our condolences to David and his entire family during this difficult time."
"American Idol" winner David Cook spent the day greeting fans at the Race for Hope – DC presented by Cassidy & Pinkard Colliers to benefit the National Brain Tumor Society and Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure. David Cook took a late-night flight from a Florida concert to arrive early Sunday morning at the Race for Hope – DC.
Cook greeted participants and posed for photos at the Survivor Tent before running the 5k course on only a few hours of sleep. More fans had a chance to meet Cook before the closing ceremonies, where David Cook's Team was recognized as the event team with the most participants (351) and the highest fundraising (more than $100,000).
When Cook took the stage at the end of the ceremony, he charmed the crowd with a self-deprecating recount of his training for the Race and his 28-minute finish time. It was only then that Cook shared the devastating news that his older brother Adam had passed away the previous day, at age 36. "I lost my brother yesterday to a brain tumor," Cook said, and lost his composure for just a moment before continuing. "And I couldn’t imagine being anywhere else right now. […] I lost one today, but I’ve gained 9,000." [Video of David Cook's speech recorded by a Race participant]
"He spent his entire day hugging survivors, signing autographs, and taking pictures. He did this for hundreds of people," said Race for Hope – DC co-chair Jeff Kolodin, a board member for the National Brain Tumor Society. "He shared his very private moment with thousands. He was willing to put his personal, raw emotion out there."
Fans can contribute to David Cook's Team in memory of Adam Cook at www.curebraintumors.org. Funds from the Race for Hope – DC support both the National Brain Tumor Society and Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure and benefit brain tumor research and support services for families.
National Brain Tumor Society funds research by academic and industry scientists and provides support services to brain tumor patients and their families at all stages of the treatment journey. Learn more about NBTS programs and upcoming events at www.braintumor.org.
