The 1 in 50

In this episode, we’re joined by professional MMA fighter Rafael Barbosa, fresh off winning the Pancrase Lightweight Title. Known for his grit and determination inside the cage, Rafael’s journey took an unexpected turn in 2022 when routine pre-fight medical testing revealed two brain aneurysms—an incidental finding that changed everything.What followed was a battle far beyond the octagon. Rafael opens up about receiving his diagnosis, navigating treatment and recovery, and the mental and physical challenges of stepping away from the sport he loves.Now back in the cage, he shares what it meant to return to fighting, how his perspective has shifted, and why prioritizing your health can be life-saving.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Chicago-based neurosurgeon and social media educator Dr. Zayed Almadidy, MD — known to more than 1 million followers as Dr. Z Neurosurgery — joins us to share what life behind the scenes in neurosurgery really looks like.He opens up about the demands of training, the moment that inspired him to pursue this path, and the dedication and commitment required to care for patients. Dr. Z also discusses the realities of delivering life-changing news, explains key risk factors for brain aneurysms, and reflects on the 16-year journey of discipline, education, and empathy it takes to operate on the human brain and spine.A candid and insightful conversation about medicine, purpose, and the dedication behind saving lives.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Christine Buckley sits down with Dr. Edgar A. Samaniego, MD, MS, from the University of Iowa to discuss the future of brain aneurysm research—and the challenges holding it back.While treatment tools for brain aneurysms have advanced significantly, our understanding of biology, genetics, and screening remains in the early stages. Dr. Samaniego shares why better screening tools, improved diagnosis of unruptured aneurysms, and clearer guidance on who needs treatment versus monitoring are critical next steps.The conversation also highlights how declining research funding at both the industry and government levels threatens progress and delays potential breakthroughs in understanding why brain aneurysms form and how to prevent rupture. To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Dr. Jared Cooper and brain aneurysm survivor and advocate, Janine Durso come together for an honest conversation about survival, care, and community. Janine shares her personal experience with a brain aneurysm and how Dr. Cooper played a key role in her lifesaving care.They explore the signs and symptoms of brain aneurysms, the realities of both ruptured and unruptured diagnoses, and why ongoing support is just as important as medical treatment. The episode also spotlights their involvement in building a brain aneurysm support group at White Plains Hospital, creating a space where patients and families can feel seen, supported, and understood.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

After collapsing from a traumatic brain injury in South Florida, Susan Bailey’s aneurysm was missed twice on CT scans. Told not to worry, her instincts—and her family—told her otherwise. A call to the Brain Aneurysm Foundation connected her to a specialist who discovered the bleeding aneurysm and performed emergency surgery. Today, Susan shares how awareness and advocacy saved her life.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

On a Father’s Day morning, rising Bucknell sophomore Caroline McCaffrey went for a routine run—and hours later, her life changed forever when she suffered a ruptured brain aneurysm. After multiple surgeries, a long hospital stay, and months of rehabilitation, her road to recovery was anything but easy. Supported every step of the way by family, teammates, coaches, and friends, Caroline found the strength to keep moving forward. Now back on her feet and training for the Philly 8K, she runs not just for herself, but to raise awareness about brain aneurysms, a condition that can affect anyone, at any time. Her journey is a powerful story of resilience, determination, and the strength of community. To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

In this episode of The 1 in 50 Podcast, Dr. Nicolas Khattar joins us to discuss the science behind brain aneurysms and what everyone should know. He explains why aneurysms form, whether stress can contribute to their development, and what factors can lead to a rupture. Dr. Khattar also shares insight into who is most at risk, the signs and symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored, and imaging that can provide early detection. This episode is filled with valuable information for survivors, caregivers, and anyone looking to better understand brain aneurysms and brain health.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Francelys Infante was a busy mom of three and an entrepreneur when what she thought was a migraine turned out to be three brain aneurysms. In this episode of The 1 in 50, Francelys recounts her sudden diagnosis, the emergency surgery that saved her life, and her path to recovery. Her story is one of resilience and motherhood, and a powerful reminder for women to listen to their bodies and prioritize their health.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Neha S. Dangayach, MD, Associate Professor of Neurosurgery, Neurology, Rehabilitation, and Human Performance at the Mount Sinai Health System, and an active leader within the American Heart Association.Dr. Dangayach shares her journey into neurology and her work in patient-centered care. We discuss the dangers of ruptured aneurysms, differences between ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes, key warning signs, and the gaps in awareness and access to care. Dr. Dangayach also highlights promising innovations, from biomarkers to AI, that give hope for the future of stroke and brain aneurysm treatment.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Jeff Miles is proof that recovery is possible and awareness saves lives. After surviving three strokes in 2009 and facing a long, uncertain road ahead, Jeff relearned to walk and run. In 2025, he completed his sixth Boston Marathon, his first with TeamBAF, raising funds for brain aneurysm research and support. From the challenges of training in New Delhi to the roar of Boston’s crowds, Jeff’s story is one of perseverance and turning personal challenges into a mission to save lives.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Congresswoman Yvette Clarke, co-sponsor of Ellie’s Law, joins Christine Buckley to share her personal connection to brain aneurysms and what drives her ongoing advocacy. In this powerful episode, she reflects on the stories that inspire her, the urgent need for increased federal funding, and what she hopes to see in the future: earlier detection, equitable access to care, and a national commitment to brain aneurysm research. To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Tom Nolan, CEO of Kendra Scott, joins the 1 in 50 Podcast to share the emotional story of losing his sister to a brain aneurysm. He discusses how her memory drives his advocacy and efforts to raise awareness for this often-overlooked disease.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

In this episode, Keith Lockhart, conductor of the Boston Pops, reflects on his 30-year journey leading the orchestra and shares his personal connection to brain aneurysm awareness after the loss of his sister-in-law. Keith discusses his advocacy efforts, BAF Boston Pops’ Night, and the importance of raising awareness for brain aneurysms. Boston Pops' 2025 Spring Season is now open! You are invited to join the Brain Aneurysm Foundation at the 2025 Night at the Pops on Friday, June 6, at Symphony Hall in Boston—a special evening featuring a reception and concert supporting brain aneurysm awareness. Click here, https://www.bafound.org/events/2025-boston-pops-night/To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

In this episode of the 1 in 50 Podcast, CNBC’s Sharon Epperson shares her journey as a brain aneurysm survivor and how it shaped her perspective on health, finances, and life. Her story is a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of raising awareness.You can also sign up for “Money 101 with Sharon Epperson”, a free newsletter series on financial freedom at cnbc.com/money101. Also available in Spanish at cnbc.com/dinero101.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube

Welcome to the first episode of The 1 in 50 Podcast, hosted by Christine Buckley of the Brain Aneurysm Foundation.To kick off this exciting new series, we’re joined by Scot Langley, better known as Froggy from the nationally syndicated Elvis Duran and the Morning Show and as a country music DJ at WQIK Radio in Jacksonville, Florida.Froggy is a brain aneurysm survivor who has turned his experience into advocacy, raising awareness and funding for research through his annual event, Froggy's Drive for Research. In this episode, he shares his journey, the impact of his diagnosis, and his mission to help others.To watch the video version, visit our YouTube channel, https://bit.ly/1in50Youtube