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Cavs Owner Gilbert Mobilizes Millions for Neurofibromatosis Research

Dan Gilbert, chairman of Rocket Companies and majority owner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, is channeling his personal tragedy into a major research initiative. Gilbert's oldest son, Nick, died in 2023 following a prolonged battle with neurofibromatosis, a rare genetic disorder characterized by tumor growth on nerve tissue. The condition affects approximately 1 in 2,000 births, impacting roughly 170,000 Americans with no current cure. Nick developed his first tumor on his optic nerve shortly after birth, undergoing chemotherapy and major surgery throughout his childhood. Through the Gilbert Family Foundation, Gilbert commits millions annually toward NF research. He is driven by a personal mission to eliminate the disease and honor his son's memory while advancing medical treatment options for affected families.