At Take The Fight, we believe advocacy is not optional in healthcare—it is essential. Our mission is to transform America’s most talented college students into informed, empowered medical advocates who actively support patients and healthcare teams in the fight against life-threatening diseases, including brain cancer.
Take The Fight was founded through the vision and leadership of Dr. Glenn Lesser, a respected neuro-oncologist at the Comprehensive Cancer Center at Wake Forest Baptist. Through decades of treating patients with complex neurological cancers, Dr. Lesser recognized a critical gap in healthcare—patients and families often need knowledgeable advocates who can help them navigate complicated diagnoses, treatment plans, research options, and emotional challenges.
Our Origin
The idea behind Take The Fight emerged from a simple but powerful belief: brilliant, motivated college students can become vital members of the medical support system. With proper education, mentorship, and clinical exposure, these students can bridge communication gaps, support informed decision-making, and stand beside patients during some of the most difficult moments of their lives.
Rather than limiting student involvement to observation or research alone, Take The Fight prepares participants to become advanced advocates—individuals trained to understand neuro-oncology fundamentals, medical terminology, patient communication strategies, and the emotional landscape of serious illness.
What We Do
Take The Fight identifies high-achieving students with a passion for medicine, science, and service. Through structured programs, mentorship, and clinical immersion, we equip them with the knowledge and confidence to:
- Understand complex neuro-oncology conditions
- Support patients and families in navigating care
- Collaborate effectively with physicians and healthcare teams
- Advocate for informed treatment decisions
- Contribute meaningfully to patient-centered care
Our advocates are not passive observers—they are prepared contributors. They become part of the extended medical team, offering clarity, empathy, and dedicated support.
Why It Matters
Serious medical diagnoses can overwhelm even the strongest individuals. Medical information is complex, treatment decisions are urgent, and emotional strain is significant. By integrating trained student advocates into the care process, Take The Fight strengthens communication, enhances patient empowerment, and supports better healthcare experiences.
At the same time, we are cultivating the next generation of physician-leaders—young professionals who understand not only science, but also compassion, advocacy, and teamwork.
Our Vision
We envision a future where every patient facing a life-altering diagnosis has access to knowledgeable advocates who stand beside them. We aim to expand our model nationwide, empowering students and improving patient care across communities.
At Take The Fight, we are building more than a program—we are building a movement. Together, we take the fight to disease, to confusion, and to fear—armed with knowledge, compassion, and purpose.