Story
Hi, I'm fundraising for BANA UK – the British Acoustic Neuroma Association – a charity close to my heart as someone living with an acoustic neuroma.
In 2023, I was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma, a type of brain tumour that, although often labelled “benign,” has had a profound impact on my life. Since that day, I’ve been learning to live with permanent hearing loss on one side, relentless 24/7 tinnitus, and the emotional uncertainty of regular scans to monitor any growth. I’m currently in the “watch and wait” stage — no treatment for now, just constant awareness.
The hardest part isn’t always the physical symptoms. It’s the invisibility of it all. From the outside, I look the same. But noisy rooms become exhausting, social situations more isolating, and that constant high-pitched tone never switches off. People hear the word “benign” and think it means harmless. But inside your head, even something non-cancerous can be life-altering.
That’s where BANA has been such a lifeline. Through clear, trusted information and a genuinely supportive community, they’ve helped me feel less alone. Being able to read others’ stories and share my own has been a huge part of staying mentally strong during this journey.
To say thank you and raise awareness, I’ve started taking on endurance events to fundraise and shine a light on life with an acoustic neuroma. This page will stay open for ongoing fundraising as I continue to take on challenges to support BANA’s incredible work.
🚀 Upcoming Events:
- SUPBIKERUN Devon 2026
(More challenges are in the works!)
🏁 Events Completed
Each event will link you to the blog article
If you can spare a donation, I’d be so grateful. Every bit helps BANA continue offering support, community, and hope to people like me — across the UK and beyond.