Minds Over Tumors was created with a simple but powerful mission: bring hope to children diagnosed with brain tumors. What started as a personal calling for founder Darren Nieves has grown into a fast-moving, community-driven nonprofit focused on easing the emotional and financial weight carried by families navigating one of the hardest journeys imaginable.
The organization is building support on several fronts. Its financial program is designed to offer direct assistance to families overwhelmed by medical bills, while its scholarship program uplifts students who endured a brain tumor during high school or college and want to continue their education. Minds Over Tumors is also developing a research grant process with hospitals to support clinical trials and new breakthroughs in treatment.
One of its most heartwarming efforts is the Teddy Bear Program. More than a thousand bears have already been delivered to hospitals across South Florida, often in partnership with local supporters like Naples Motorsports, Ave Maria Rotary Club, and Naples Luxury Imports.
Their most recent gala, held on November 8, 2025 at the Elite Jets hangar, showed just how much momentum this mission has gained. The sold-out event brought together 270 guests for cocktails, a live and silent auction, and an energy-packed band performance. It also made history as the first gala in the country to auction off a fighter jet flight. Nearly $200,000 was raised—an incredible feat made even more impressive by the fact that the entire event was spearheaded by 18-year-old Darren Nieves, who handled logistics, décor, fundraising, and more.
Looking ahead, Minds Over Tumors aims to fully launch its Research, Financial, and Scholarship programs to deliver direct aid to children diagnosed with brain tumors. The team is also planning an annual Brain Tumor Innovation Summit in Naples, bringing together doctors, researchers, survivors, and families to share insights and push for progress.