On the morning of April 12, 2023, Matthew Friedman, an extremely gifted young man, unexpectedly did not wake up. In the coming days, it was confirmed that a ruptured brain aneurysm had taken Matthew from us at 19 years old. Matthew was a brilliant, caring, passionate, and extremely loved young man. He was going to use his brilliance to become a doctor and change the face of medicine.

At Cornell University, Matthew pursued his pre-med studies with a focus on Biology, particularly Neurobiology, laying the foundation for his future as a surgeon. He was not content with merely excelling academically; he also dedicated his time to serving his community as an EMT with the local first aid squad, embodying his commitment to helping others in their times of need.

The Matthew Friedman Memorial Foundation is dedicated to honoring Matthew’s memory by supporting brain aneurysm research, education, and awareness.  Through our efforts, we aim to keep Matthew’s spirit alive, help others the way Matthew would have, and most of all, make him proud. His departure left a void in the lives of all who knew him, but his memory continues to uplift those who were touched by his presence.

The Matthew Friedman Memorial Foundation Chair of Research has been established to support research into brain aneurysms in the hope of moving us closer to solving how to detect potential ruptures before they happen. As Matthew told his classmates at his high school graduation, “Dream Big and Seize Your Potential,” and that is what we will continue to do in the hopes of finding a way to stop brain aneurysm ruptures.