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Pediatric brain tumor patients are at risk for deficits in cognitive functioning, including attention, memory, and processing speed. Evaluation of these functions by neuropsychologists is important for connecting patients with appropriate interventions to reduce academic or vocational difficulties. Despite the importance of neuropsychological services, traditional assessments are time consuming and costly for both providers and families. As such, neuropsychological surveillance is often limited. Due to advances in technology, computerized neuropsychological batteries were developed that can be completed via internet in the home. As the recipient of the Grace for Good Fund St. Baldrick's Supportive Care Research Grant, Dr. Raghubar is determining if children diagnosed and treated for brain tumor can successfully complete web-based tests. Patients currently receiving annual neuropsychological evaluations will be asked to complete a web-based battery. She will evaluate 1) the rate of successful completion; 2) the relationship between performance on the computerized and traditional neuropsychological tests; and 3) the degree to which patients are similarly categorized as demonstrating impaired versus non-impaired neurocognitive abilities when assessed using either form of assessment. This line of research has the potential to improve the clinical care of patients and survivors. She may also find a solution to the problems that have plagued late-effects research for decades, such as poor participation and high dropout rates.

This grant is named for the Grace for Good Fund in honor of Grace Carey and celebrates her survivorship from medulloblastoma. While Grace handled her treatments with minor setbacks, she now faces challenges wrought by the very medications and procedures that saved her life. This fund was inspired by her desire to help other kids with cancer and supports research of brain tumors and the multitude of challenges facing survivors post treatment.