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This film is being created to inspire people to stop worrying about the ‘what if’s’ in life and go out and chase whatever dream is in their hearts. It’s a film the world needs, and Joel is the unexpected hero we all need right now. In talking with Joel and his family, it became clear that anyone could be looking for hope, comfort, or support and struggling to find help. On this page you’ll find organizations that work to fight rare cancers and support people and families in the fight. Come back often as we will keep it updated with tools and resources along the way.
"Brave Like Gabe” started as a hashtag to support professional runner Gabriele “Gabe” Grunewald as she sought treatment for her third battle with an incurable rare salivary gland cancer in 2017.
As a professional runner and rare cancer advocate, Gabe founded The Brave Like Gabe Foundation to share her story, inspire others to connect and do the same, and to make a difference in the cancer community.
During her cancer journey, Gabe experienced firsthand many of the challenges faced by rare cancer patients and the need for dedicated research funding.
She also felt strongly that running and physical activity were like medicine during all phases of her cancer journey.
Gabe passed away in June 2019 and her legacy with the foundation continues to inspire others to share their own struggles while also helping to find better more effective treatments for rare cancer.
Read Joel’s #MyBraveStory here.
Storyectomy* is a community-driven mental health initiative using the art of storytelling and comedy to provide light, love, and healing. Storyectomy End Cancer is a culmination of Storyectomy*, a six-week storytelling initiative, and in this iteration, those affected by cancer share their personal and comedic stories on stage alongside pro comedians.
Joel participated in Storyectomy in October 2024, as performed as the headliner for the evening.