Help me get to the Berlin Marathon in September 2026 and raise money for Brain Research UK!

I was diagnosed with an acoustic neuroma (a type of brain tumour in 2019). A slow growing tumour, I have been on watch and wait for the last 7 years but in February 2026 I am due to have my next scan which will likely start the conversations about when to have treatment (surgery or radiotherapy)

My type of brain tumour is located in the canal between my left ear and my brain. As it grows it heads towards my brain and it is now at the point of pushing on it. I have tinnitus, brain fog which brings on severe fatigue and when I am tired I struggle with my balance. I am often socially isolated because some event I just cannot attend and I have to pace myself and not overdo it. My hearing in that ear is deteriorating and the sound travelling in through that ear is distorted making it tiring to hold conversations in noisy environments. As a result I gave up a career in an environment which is typically noisy. With no permanent job and no sickness benefits, I often have anxiety about finances.

I am better outside with noise and whilst exercise is tiring, it actually helps me to feel energised so I just have to manage my symptoms.

When I left permanent employment a year ago, I wanted to be able to enjoy doing the things I enjoy more in life and being able to improve my running despite these challenges has been something I am very proud of. In 2018 when I first experienced symptoms I was often tired and my running went downhill as I was just exhausted all the time. Now I understand the impact of the tumour and the triggers of sever fatigue I am able to manage things better. After treatment... I have no idea what the other side is like. It may be no different, or it could be better or worse there is no guarantee so I just want to make the most of the time I have now.

Therefore, running these amazing races and raising money for charities which support those with brain tumours makes a difference for me and for others. I know things could be a lot worse for me so being able to give some to those who are really struggling right now means a lot. I also hope that research into the brain and the impact of brain injuries like a tumour might lead to better treatments down the line.

To run the Berlin Marathon I need to raise a minimum amount for Brain Research UK, of which £1,650 I need to raise by July to gain entry. The remaining £550 I then need to raise by the time I participate.

Brain Research UK who is the UK's leading dedicated funder of neurological research. They fund the best science to achieve the greatest impact for people affected by neurological conditions, to help them live better, longer.

It is always one of those difficult things asking people for money, but if this has resonated with you and you are able to make a donation then I would be extremely grateful. Either way, I appreciate your support in helping me train every day, maintain positivity and celebrate any of my successes along the way.

If you have any problems being able to donate directly using JustGiving depending on location/method of payment then I also have Paypal or GoFundme which I can then make the donation on your behalf.

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