Ya Gotta Believe
A major SOCOM study found special operators face an 18% higher cancer risk, with elevated rates of melanoma and testicular cancer.
Despite having a greater risk of cancer than their non-SOF peers, the AFHSD study found that SOF personnel had a 40 percent lower cancer mortality rate than non-SOF personnel.
Of the 2,173 deaths from any cause that the SOF personnel experienced, 103 occurred because of cancer, resulting in a cancer mortality rate of 3.96 deaths per 100,000. Brain and nervous system cancers, colon and rectum cancers, and leukemia accounted for the highest numbers of deaths due to cancers in the SOF cohort.
The cancer mortality rate for non-SOF personnel was determined to be 6.6 deaths per 100,000, or 5.86 deaths for 100,000 for the non-SOF deployed cohort. Study: United States Special Operations Command Photo credit: Military Daily News
OUR MISSION
Connect. Collaborate. Achieve Together
Rooted in the ‘Ya Gotta Believe’ spirit, the Tug McGraw Foundation enhances the quality of life for veterans and individuals affected by glioblastoma brain tumors and injuries. Through our signature brain wellness programs at the Veterans Home of California, Yountville, we provide the resources, community, and cognitive health tools necessary for our heroes to thrive.
Our Game Plan: How We Deliver
At the Tug McGraw Foundation, we believe that a brain-related diagnosis or injury isn't the end of the game—it’s the start of a new mission. We aim to improve the quality of life for those affected by brain-related trauma and tumors by providing a clear roadmap through education, vetted resources, and transformative wellness programs.
Guided by Tug’s "Ya Gotta Believe" spirit, we deliver our impact through four strategic pillars:
Brain Wellness
At the Veterans Home of California, Yountville
As our flagship site, the Veterans Home of California, Yountville serves as the heart of our community. We provide sustainable, holistic programs that sharpen cognitive function, fuel the body, and strengthen social bonds through the Tug McGraw Brain Food Garden, the Mixed Nutts softball program, and The Creative Brain arts initiative.
High-Performance Recovery
Virginia High Performance
We proudly support the Virginia High Performance (VHP) Charlie Mike program. This elite "Continue Mission" initiative provides active-duty and veteran special operators with a high-intensity, holistic roadmap to recovery—addressing TBI, chronic pain, and cognitive health through world-class human performance training.
Collaborative Education
Military and Civilian
We act as a catalyst for progress, fostering vital collaboration between military and civilian medical communities to advance the technologies and treatments of tomorrow.
Empowering Resources
Navigating Glioblastoma
We bridge the gap between "what now?" and "what’s next?" for those facing the most daunting challenges, including glioblastoma (GBM) and other aggressive brain tumors. By sharing an expansive, vetted network of specialists, clinical trials, and support systems, we empower individuals, caregivers, and families to navigate the complexities of a GBM diagnosis with confidence. We ensure no one fights the battle for brain health alone, providing the roadmap needed to move from a place of uncertainty to a position of strength.
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