We have faced funding challenges since 2020, but thanks to a dedicated group of donors and new corporate sponsors, we are excited to announce that our 2026 grant application is now open. We remain committed and moving forward—to Braver Beginnings.

RESPIRATORY DISTRESS IN INFANTS AND ADULTS

  Respiratory Distress Syndrome (RDS) is a serious condition that most often afflicts premature infants, although other babies can also have the condition. These infants are unable to breathe properly without oxygen and other medical interventions. The syndrome can be deadly, but with the right treatment, infants often survive and thrive. When RDS cannot be prevented, advanced medical … Continued

Meet Todd Vradenburg of Brave Beginnings

WRMPPF EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, TODD VRADENBURG, INTERVIEWED BY LOS ANGELES MEDIA OUTLET, VOYAGELA   May 21, 2019 By: VoyageLA Staff   Today we’d like to introduce you to Todd Vradenburg. Todd, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today? Brave Beginnings started as a program under the Will Rogers Institute. … Continued

It’s Brave Beginnings Grant Application Time!

This time of year, we hear from many hospitals around the country who need more and/or better equipment for their neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).  Most of the hospitals seeking grants already have some state-of-the-art equipment, but due to the volume of premature births they are managing, it’s not enough. Ask any doctor, nurse, or … Continued

John Cena Stars In PSA For Brave Beginnings And Exhibitors’ Campaign To Aid Premature Babies

    by David Robb January 10, 2019 2:09 PM   EXCLUSIVE: John Cena, the actor and pro wrestling champion, will be appearing on theater screens all across the country this summer in a 30-second PSA urging movie-goers to support the work of Brave Beginnings, an initiative of the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Foundation that’s helped … Continued

Marley Shelton Stars in Latest PSA from Brave Beginnings

Marley Shelton stars in latest public service announcement!     We are proud to have Marley Shelton star in our latest public service announcement for Brave Beginnings. The spot features REAL preemies experiencing REAL firsts! Marley is known for her roles as Wendy Peffercorn in The Sandlot, Kristin in Never Been Kissed and Margaret Henderson … Continued

Brave Beginnings Grant Assists Neonatal Research

In this feature, Neonatal Intensive Care interviews clinicians and healthcare providers about the actual application of specific products and therapies. This interview is with Dr Anup Katheria, a neonatologist affiliated with the Sharp Healthcare Foundation in San Diego, CA, about the facility receiving a Brave Beginnings grant.   Neonatal Intensive Care: Could you provide a quick history about your hospital … Continued