Why We Wear Gray: Honoring Brain Cancer Awareness Month

May is Brain Cancer Awareness Month—a time to shine a light on a devastating and often misunderstood group of diseases that urgently needs more visibility, research, and support.

Also recognized as Brain Tumor Awareness Month, this time of year honors everyone affected by brain tumors—whether cancerous or not. Because whether it's benign or malignant, a brain tumor is never “no big deal.” It impacts not just the body, but the person’s entire identity, family, and way of life.

This post is a tribute to the fighters, the families, the caregivers, and the researchers working every day to change the narrative around brain cancer.

Why Brain Cancer Awareness Matters

Brain tumors are rare, but their impact is immense. Awareness isn’t just a ribbon—it’s power. It fuels earlier detection, better treatments, stronger support systems, and critical research funding.

Here’s why brain cancer awareness is so important:

• There are over 120 different types of brain and central nervous system tumors. Each comes with unique challenges and treatments.

• Brain cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in children under 14.

• Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), one of the most aggressive types, has a median survival rate of just 12–15 months.

• Even benign tumors can be life-threatening, especially when they affect critical areas of the brain or cause pressure inside the skull.

• Brain tumors don’t just affect the physical body—they can change memory, mood, speech, movement, and even personality.

In short: brain cancer and tumors are complex, underfunded, and life-altering—and we believe they deserve far more attention than they get.

Who’s at Risk?

Brain cancer doesn’t care about age, gender, or background. It can affect anyone—but certain groups face higher risks:

• Children and teens are more likely to develop aggressive pediatric brain tumors like medulloblastomas.

• Adults over 45 have a higher risk for glioblastomas, meningiomas, and other brain tumors.

• Men are slightly more likely than women to develop brain tumors overall.

• People exposed to radiation, either through past cancer treatments or environmental exposure, may face greater risk.

• Those with a family history of brain tumors or certain genetic conditions (like Li-Fraumeni syndrome) may also be more susceptible.

That said, many brain tumors occur with no clear cause. That’s why widespread awareness, regular check-ups, and attention to symptoms are crucial.

Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Brain tumor symptoms vary widely depending on the tumor’s type, size, and location. Some are gradual. Others come on suddenly.

Here are common signs to be aware of:

• Persistent or worsening headaches

• Seizures (especially in someone without a history of them)

• Vision problems or hearing changes

• Unexplained nausea or vomiting, particularly in the morning

• Cognitive changes: confusion, memory loss, or personality shifts

• Balance or coordination issues

• Weakness or numbness in limbs

These symptoms aren’t exclusive to brain tumors—but if something feels off or unusual, especially in combination, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. Early detection saves lives.

The Meaning Behind the Gray Ribbon

The gray awareness ribbon is the official symbol for brain cancer and brain tumor awareness.

Why gray? It reflects the color of the brain itself—and serves as a powerful reminder of the complexity and seriousness of these conditions.

Wearing gray during May (and year-round) says:

"I see the fighters. I honor the survivors. I remember those we've lost. I support the ones still in the fight."

At Dream Maker Pins, we believe in the emotional impact of small, symbolic items. That’s why our Brain Cancer Awareness Collection was designed with care, meaning, and yes—a little bit of fight.

Our Awareness Products: A Way to Speak Without Words

We know that sometimes, words fail. That's why we create products that help people express what they’re feeling, support the ones they love, and raise awareness for a cause that matters deeply.

Here’s what’s in our Brain Cancer Awareness Collection:

Gray Ribbon Enamel Pin – Subtle, elegant, and powerful. A daily reminder of strength and solidarity.

Gray “F*ck Cancer” Enamel Pin – Because sometimes you need to say it straight. This pin makes no apologies—and neither should you.

Gray & White Awareness Wristbands – These say: “I wear this for my ___.” Choose from 50+ relationships: mom, dad, brother, daughter, cousin, friend, partner, and more. Whether you're honoring a loved one or showing support, this band makes it personal.

Gray & White “F*ck Brain Tumors” Wristbands – A bold way to show your frustration, your advocacy, and your support in one meaningful piece.

Shop the full collection here (link to collection)

Organizations Worth Your Support

We aren’t affiliated with any specific organization, and we don’t say “a portion of proceeds go to charity.” But we do believe in using our platform to shine a light on people and groups doing the real work.

If you're looking for somewhere to donate, fundraise, or learn more—we recommend starting with these:

• National Brain Tumor Society – Focused on accelerating treatments, advancing research, and providing community support.

• American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA) – Offers patient education, funding for medical research, and caregiver resources.

• Glioblastoma Foundation – Dedicated to improving treatment options and outcomes for those with the most aggressive brain cancer.

These organizations are making waves in awareness, education, and funding—three things this community urgently needs more of.

How You Can Help

You don’t have to be a doctor or scientist to make a difference. Here are some simple ways to support the brain cancer community this May and beyond:

• Learn and share the symptoms

• Talk openly about brain cancer and tumor diagnosis—it breaks stigma

• Offer support to those in treatment or recovery (even small gestures matter)

• Raise funds or participate in local events

• Wear gray to honor those affected and start meaningful conversations

• Give a pin or wristband to someone in the fight to let them know they’re not alone

Why This Matters

At Dream Maker Pins, we believe in the power of tiny things to make a big impact.

A ribbon on a lapel. A wristband on a tired wrist. A pin that says what someone can’t quite put into words.

These aren’t just accessories—they’re personal. Emotional. Powerful. And when worn with purpose, they can spark conversations, offer comfort, and quietly say, “I’m here. I care.”

This May, let’s get loud for a cause that often stays quiet.

Let’s raise awareness for the fighters. Let’s lift up families navigating a scary diagnosis. Let’s support researchers working to create better futures. And let’s make space for grief, for hope, and for healing.

Most of all—let’s wear gray with purpose.

Because brain cancer doesn’t just affect the brain. It affects everything.
And every step we take toward visibility, compassion, and funding is a step toward change.

Want to honor someone in your life or start your own awareness project?

Start a Custom Project
Browse the Brain Cancer Collection

We’re here to help you wear your heart on your sleeve—or your jacket.