London to Brighton. Two non-cyclists. One very good cause.

On 13 September, I will be taking on the London to Brighton Bike Ride with my friend Kate.

Neither of us are cyclists. In fact, when we first agreed to do this back in January, our training plan was essentially: "It can't be that hard, can it?" We have since learned that 55 miles, several hills and something called Ditchling Beacon may require some serious muscle and determination.

But we're spurred on by a cause that means a great deal to me in particular.

In 2024, my four-year-old son, Konrad, was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Within 12 hours of receiving the diagnosis, he had been rushed by ambulance to King's College Hospital and was undergoing emergency brain surgery. One day you're a happy, healthy four-year-old boy, and the next you're living on a hospital ward for months, facing frightening procedures, endless uncertainty and the very real possibility of not surviving.

Thanks to the incredible skill, dedication and compassion of the team at King's College Hospital, Konrad is still with us today. We will never stop being grateful for the care he received. His survival is a testament not only to the amazing medical staff who treated him, but also to the research that has made those treatments possible.

Today, Konrad's tumour remains stable, and we know how incredibly lucky we are to have him here with us. Every ordinary day that we get to spend together feels like a gift.

Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40. That's why the work of The Brain Tumour Charity is so important. They fund pioneering research into better treatments and support scientists working to develop newer, kinder and more effective ways to treat brain tumours.

The Brain Tumour Charity also helped our family in a very personal way. They have created a series of wonderful animations that explain brain tumours and treatment to children. These were genuinely invaluable for Konrad. They helped him understand what was happening, feel less frightened, and process experiences that no child should ever have to face.They were equally important for his older sister, helping her understand what was happening to her brother and making her feel seen during an incredibly difficult time.

Since Konrad's diagnosis, I have met many families affected by brain tumours. Some have experienced unimaginable loss and heartbreak. Too many people are facing a disease for which outcomes can be devastating.

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world's leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of brain tumour research globally. That's why my lovely friend Kate and I are taking on the London to Brighton Cycle Ride and raising money for this incredible cause. We are not cyclists, so 55 miles is quite daunting!

Every donation, no matter how small, will help fund vital research and support families facing the toughest days of their lives. I am riding for Konrad and for all the families and children I have met because when you, or someone you love, is diagnosed with a brain tumour, a cure really can't wait.

If you'd like to sponsor us, we'd be hugely grateful. Whether it's the price of a coffee, an overpriced Pret sandwich or something a little larger, it will all help.

Thank you for your support.