Written by Valeria Castañeda
Founder of Neurosphere
@neurosphere.intl
For as long as I can remember, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in medicine. I’ve always felt a strong calling to help others, whether that meant running to get a bandage or assisting a friend who got hurt. But everything changed after my dad underwent major brain surgery and was later diagnosed with dementia. That experience opened my eyes to the impact of neurodegenerative diseases and how deeply they affect not only the patient but their entire family as a whole.
Watching my father’s journey made me realize how much more awareness and education are needed around brain-related illnesses. It also revealed the serious disparities in access to care, especially in underserved communities where quality resources and support are often out of reach. I wanted to do something meaningful and address this issue, so in December 2024 I started NeuroSphere, a youth-led organization focused on raising awareness about neurodegenerative diseases and mentoring the next generation of neuroscience leaders. With the support of one of my dearest friends and mentors, Andra Campos, I found the confidence to begin a journey I had never imagined I was capable of doing.
Today, NeuroSphere has reached over 1,000 students across the globe, with a team of dedicated board members from California, Canada, and South Korea. We have launched chapters in Minnesota, Texas, and California and continue to expand. I hope NeuroSphere serves as a reminder that if you are passionate about something and see a problem that needs solving, you should never hesitate to take that first step. Be the light that creates change, because you never know how far you may reach or how many others you may inspire to rise and take action as well.
very meaningful activity