On the 15th March 2024 I will be trekking the Ancascocha trail to Machu Picchu, a very strenuous and challenging  trek due to the altitude gain, high altitudes, 7 steep summits, and length of hiking: 56 km/34.8 miles and goes up to4,959m/16,270ft.

 In June 2020 I lost my dad to an aggressive form of Brain Tumour (Glioblastoma Multiforme). Unfortunately the prognosis for this particular Brain Tumour is extremely poor and very few survive longer than 14months. Those 14 months are very difficult and strenuous, In addition to being life-threatening, GBM – and its harsh treatments – inflict devastation upon the brain, which controls cognition, mood, behavior, and every function of every organ and body part. Many patients will lose their ability to work, drive, and a host of other functions that contribute to one’s sense of self and independence.

He was the  best dad, husband, father in law, anybody could wish for, a hard working man who loved his family and a good laugh..  I’m trying my best to return to my usual life, but it appears to be really tough without you. Miss you dad!

A few shocking statistics and facts!! 

• Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40
• Over 12,000 people are diagnosed each year with a primary brain tumour, including 500 children and young people – that’s 33 people every day
• Over 5,300 people lose their lives to a brain tumour each year
• At least 88,000 children and adults are estimated to be living with a brain tumour in the UK currently
• Brain tumours reduce life expectancy by on average 27 years – the highest of any cancer
• Just 12% of adults survive for five years after diagnosis
• Brain tumours are the largest cause of preventable or treatable blindness in children
• Research offers the only real hope of dramatic improvements in the management and treatment of brain tumours. Over £700m is spent on cancer research in the UK every year, yet less than 3% is spent on brain tumours