Totally Giving Back

Totally Giving Back: The Lulu Fund

A young woman who died from an aggressive form of brain cancer has left an amazing legacy to help others.

Lauren Cernuto of Naples, Fla., known as “Lulu,” died in February 2020 at the age of 34. Before her death, she shared her wish to help other young adults with the hardships that arise when fighting brain cancer.

Unfortunately, her life ended before she could create an organization to achieve her generous goals.

“My sister was very brave and strong. She fought a long fight and always wanted to help others while she was doing it,” Nicole Cernuto said. “Her mission was always to create a nonprofit organization (that gives funds) straight to young adults with brain cancer.”

Lulu’s cancer journey

Lauren graduated in 2008 from Florida State University where she studied real estate and finance. Her career took off and she moved several times before landing in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2012, she suffered an unexpected grand mal seizure.

Soon after, Lauren was diagnosed with a grade 3 glioblastoma. She underwent many treatments, surgeries and setbacks over the next few years, but always bounced back like a trooper. She continued to work, travel around the world and enjoy life.

Her brain cancer eventually took over and Lauren took her last breath on Feb. 11, 2020.

Bringing her mission to life

After Lauren’s death, her large Italian family focused on their sister’s life and passions. They recalled how she had raised money multiple times for brain cancer research and brain tumor awareness. She had spoken often about helping others like herself who faced the dreaded disease

The family decided to create The Lulu Fund in Lauren’s memory. They call it “a gift from the girl whose inspiring story will encourage others to continue to live a positive, fulfilling life.”

The Lulu Fund focuses on raising financial aid for people living with brain cancer. Donations help pay for medications, plane tickets and hotel stays for treatments away from home, and other financial burdens.

The Lulu Fund has sponsored several fundraising events since Lauren’s passing. In the fall of 2023, a golf tournament was held in Naples. Totally Promotional donated can coolers for the event.

Those who qualify can apply online for the Lulu Fund.