Raymond G. “Ray” Wene is the reason that The Ray of Hope Foundation was founded. A source of hope for those dealing with a brain tumor or brain cancer diagnosis – whether that be the patient, their family, friends, coworkers, or even a stranger they’ve had an impact on.

BEFORE THE DIAGNOSIS
Ray is more than just the face of The Ray of Hope. He was a loving husband to his wife, Tina, and a devoted father to Alex and Ella. He was a beloved son of Gregg and Phyllis. The outgoing oldest brother to Dave, Nikki and Teresa. An uncle, cousin, brother-in-law, and friend to anyone who had the pleasure to meet him.

THE BATTLE
Ray’s battle began in June of 2017. What started out as an ordinary day quickly turned into our worst nightmare; a brain tumor diagnosis. Ray had his first craniotomy and pathology results showed the tumor to be a Grade IV Glioblastoma (GBM). Glioblastoma is a rare terminal brain cancer. Ray underwent standard of care treatment which consisted of 6 weeks of radiation along with chemotherapy followed by 12 months of maintenance chemo. Over the course of his 29 month battle he had a second craniotomy, surgery for a brain bleed and a biopsy. While undergoing treatment Ray never lost sight of the gift of time he had been given and his faith was unshakable. He had a passion for sharing his testimony with others and could often be heard saying, “If my testimony during this storm brings one person closer to God it is worth it.” He had a way of making people feel loved and accepted! He was healed of his brain cancer on November 20, 2019 when the Lord called him home. He wanted to raise awareness for this brutal disease and with that he wanted to show support to others fighting the same battle he was fighting. 

THE LEGACY
The Ray of Hope Foundation was founded in an effort to carry on his desire and his legacy of loving people. Our fundraising proceeds will be used to support patients, their caregivers and their families as well as assisting with continuing education for neurology nurses.