Ismay's Tri"ma"thlon will involve a 10k cycle and a 2k run along the Trans Pennine Trail across Easter weekend. Her challenge will conclude on April 7th when she will complete a football agility course, as set by her kixx coach, and score a winning goal!

And this is why...

In the summer of last year Ismay's little sister, Nina, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Prior to this she'd had epilepsy for a number of months, but it was only via an MRI scan (delayed with the pandemic) that the cause of her seizures was identified. As a result she underwent brain surgery and it was possible to remove part, but not all, of the tumour. A period of relative calm followed - the tumour was identified as low grade and Nina was symptom free.  However in January of this year it was confirmed that Nina's tumour was growing back (most likely because of a mutation).  Treatment this time is chemotherapy.

For us, March marks the start of Nina's chemotherapy, the month that she turns two, and the month in which her superstar big sister will fundraise for The Brain Tumour Charity.

In the early stages of Nina's diagnosis we found the resources provided by the charity invaluable, particularly in helping us to explain things with Ismay. Since then we have continued to make use of the support that they provide as we navigate an unfamiliar and scary world. There is very little research into Nina's particular type of tumour, and research into the mutation it carries is in the early stages. Brain tumour research in general is chronically underfunded and so when you get to the specifics you're in even further trouble. Any donations therefore have the potential to make a real and significant difference - in our lives, and in the lives of others affected by a brain tumour.

"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 were doing it right now. Because we understand that when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour a cure really can't wait."