From 2023 to 2026, the Neev Kolte & Brave Ronil Foundation operated as a unified effort with a shared mission to accelerate progress for children and families affected by diffuse midline glioma (DMG/DIPG). As the foundation now transitions into two independent paths, the Mehta family will continue through the Brave Ronil Foundation and the Kolte family will continue under a new name. Both families do so with mutual respect and gratitude for what was built together, and with a continued commitment to advancing this work in our respective ways.
Over this period, the foundation committed $462,900 across 9 research projects, supporting leading institutions including University of California San Francisco, Stanford University, University of Michigan Medical School, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, University Children's Hospital Zürich, Princess Máxima Center, University of Bern, University of New South Wales, and University of California Santa Cruz. This work emphasized translational and clinical research, spanning biomarker discovery, therapy resistance, microbiome research, and AI-driven imaging, with a clear focus on precision medicine and clinically actionable outcomes.
In parallel, the foundation played an active role in advocacy at both the federal and state levels. At the federal level, we supported the passage of the Accelerating Kids' Access to Care Act and the Give Kids a Chance Act, both signed into law in 2026, working alongside national organizations and youth advocates through initiatives such as Kids v Cancer Climb the Hill. At the state level, in partnership with American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, we co-sponsored AB 703, authored by Assemblymember Alex Lee, signed into law by Gavin Newsom in 2025, led by Sahil Mehta with support from Rayaan Kolte. We also collaborated with statewide partners and Susan Rubio to pass a resolution declaring September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month in 2025, a recognition formally presented at our annual gala.
Beyond research and advocacy, the foundation remained deeply committed to families. We provided $85,000 in direct family support, reaching 50+ families through nurse navigator programs, tumor board participation, grief retreats, and financial assistance. These efforts were designed to ensure that families received not only clinical guidance, but also emotional and practical support throughout their journey.
Together, these efforts reflect a focused, multi-dimensional approach, combining research investment, policy advocacy, and direct family support to create meaningful impact in a short but significant period.
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