In 2012 I was diagnosed with an intrinsic tumour of the spinal cord. It was a grade 2 ependymoma (basically a brain tumour growing at the top of my spinal cord). Fortunately thanks to an early diagnosis and a brilliant surgeon, Munchi Choksey and his team I underwent immediate surgery, followed by a long course of radiotherapy. A full removal of the tumour was achieved. 

Despite various prognosis ranging from the worst case, paralysis,  to best case varying levels of physical dysfunction, 8 years on I am now  left with minimal deficit on my left side but pretty much able to do what I want and live a fully life albeit with managed pain relief and medication.

Prior to the diagnosis and operation I was extremely active and enjoyed most sports. Following the operation the recovery period was long but slow improvement continued over the next 2 to 3 years. I started playing golf again (badly!) and taking on long walks and light gym activities.

Although I had not run for 8 years and never in my life beyond 5 miles I have a strong desire to run the marathon and give something back to the people who basically allowed me to be here today. Many others are much less fortunate. Training is hard and everything in your body is telling you to stop but knowing that this can make a small difference is all the motivation I need.

I had amazing support from all my family and friends during my diagnosis through to recovery and now I ask you to support me with a donation if you can. Anything is appreciated and I promise I will do my very best to get across that line on April 26th !

Thank you all so much

Morton

#The40thRace of the event, and I will be running the famous 26.2 miles for The Brain Tumour Charity.The Brain Tumour Charity is the world's leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we're moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. We're set on finding new treatments, offering the highest level of support and driving urgent change. And we're doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really cant wait.