Folded Hills Winery, a family-owned establishment located in Santa Barbara County, California, has recently launched a nonprofit initiative in response to a harrowing personal experience with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. The winery’s co-founders, Kim and Andy Busch, created the organisation known as Grapes for Glioblastoma following Andy’s diagnosis in August 2023. This initiative aims to assist not only patients battling the disease but also their caregivers.
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Andy Busch, an active and athletic individual, faced a life-altering event when he suffered a seizure at the family’s ranch. Subsequent medical evaluations revealed the devastating diagnosis of glioblastoma. In an interview with radio station KCLU, Kim Busch reflected on the shock of receiving such news, stating, “I never thought that this was going to happen. Andy’s a strong, solid, unbelievably athletic guy, and that diagnosis was quite the shock—just like any cancer diagnosis.”
Since Andy’s diagnosis, he has been unable to continue his professional work, leading Kim to take on the role of his primary caregiver. During their frequent trips to medical facilities, Kim observed numerous individuals who were alone or faced significant financial hardships regarding necessary care. These observations inspired her to establish Grapes for Glioblastoma, recognising the urgent need for support among patients and their families.
The nonprofit aims to alleviate some of the burdens faced by those affected by glioblastoma. As Kim explained, many individuals she encountered during hospital visits had no emotional support or financial means to secure basic necessities, such as accommodation near treatment sites. Grapes for Glioblastoma provides immediate financial assistance for costs related to travel for medical treatment, home modifications, and caregiver support, helping families navigate the overwhelming complexities associated with a cancer diagnosis.
“It’s very challenging for the family. It’s tough for the caregiver, especially when they are trying to maintain their job for insurance,” Kim noted. She highlighted the balancing act often required of caregivers—juggling cooking, housekeeping, and transportation for loved ones. Through Grapes for Glioblastoma, Kim hopes to offer a modicum of relief in what she described as “so, so difficult” circumstances.
In an effort to sustain this initiative, Folded Hills Winery has committed to donating 10% of its sales to the nonprofit. The couple has emphasised that while making wine brings them joy, their newfound mission imbues their work with a deeper sense of purpose. On the organisation’s website, they conveyed their personal connection to the cause: “After Andy’s diagnosis, we came to understand just how many families are carrying not only the emotional weight of this disease but also the financial strain that comes with it.”
Kim and Andy’s commitment to supporting others through their nonprofit initiative is compounded by their longstanding philanthropic efforts. Since its opening in 2016, Folded Hills Winery has engaged in various charitable activities, including a monthly event dubbed “Philanthropy Fridays,” where 100% of sales are donated to local charities. According to reports, the winery raised an impressive $200,000 for charitable causes in 2025 alone.
Kim further articulated the urgency of their mission, especially regarding brain cancer, which often results in swift changes to patients’ and families’ circumstances. “With brain cancer, many patients are unable to work immediately after diagnosis. Family members have to take on new roles and responsibilities at home as they navigate a challenging and life-altering journey,” she explained.
As they navigate these tumultuous times, the Buschs remain steadfast in their mission to bring awareness to glioblastoma and provide critical financial assistance through Grapes for Glioblastoma. Their dedication underscores an understanding of not just the emotional weight of such a diagnosis but also the overwhelming financial impact that accompanies it.
Through their tireless efforts, the couple hopes to rip away some of the isolation faced by families grappling with glioblastoma, fostering connection and community support during one of life’s most challenging battles.