Maya’s Legacy
Courage Beyond Measure
Maya Dronca's battle with brain cancer was a journey of unimaginable courage and strength. Diagnosed with bithalamic astrocytoma, a rare and aggressive form of brain cancer, Maya faced her illness with grace and determination. Despite the median survival time for DIPG being just nine months, Maya's indomitable spirit allowed her to fight for 14 months. Her bravery and resilience continue to inspire us every day.
Her Legacy In Action
In honor of Maya's incredible spirit, the Maya Dronca Foundation was established to continue her legacy of helping others. Our mission is to advance childhood cancer research by supporting brilliant scientists committed to bold and innovative ideas that can transform the fight against this devastating disease. We are dedicated to funding research that aims to find cures for various forms of childhood cancer, not just DIPG.
The Reality of Pediatric Brain CancerPediatric high-grade gliomas are among the deadliest childhood cancers. Despite advances in medicine, survival rates remain tragically low, and many tumors lack effective targeted treatments. Childhood brain cancers are biologically distinct from adult cancers, requiring specialized research and innovative approaches. These are not abstract statistics, they represent children, families, and futures interrupted.
Medicine Did Not Yet Have the Tools
Maya received the best care available. She was surrounded by extraordinary doctors, cutting-edge medicine, and relentless love. But even the most advanced therapies could not change the biology of her tumor. Her cancer was aggressive, resistant, and not yet matched to a treatment that could save her. This was not a failure of care — it was a reminder that science has not yet caught up to the bravery of children like Maya.
Why this Foundation ExistsWe cannot change Maya’s outcome. But we can fight for the children who are diagnosed tomorrow. The Maya Dronca Foundation exists to turn heartbreak into hope, to fund bold research, to support scientists who refuse to accept the current limits, and to push this field forward with urgency and compassion. Maya dreamed of becoming an oncologist to help others. Through this foundation, her light continues to guide us, reminding us that love can become action, and action can change the future.
Maya, we will keep your light shining and continue your legacy by helping others. We are proud of you, and we will always carry your love and determination in our hearts.
—Mom & Dad