This fundraiser supports the 2026 World Encephalitis Day Appeal and the work of Encephalitis International.

In honour of our mum (Kathy Burke) who tragically lost her life from viral encephalitis, we are committed to raising awareness of this terrible condition. Prompt treatment results in better outcomes for patients, so we're dedicated to raise awareness of the symptoms and help save lives.

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain, caused by either an infection or the immune system attacking the brain in error.

Worldwide, someone is affected every 20 seconds. Encephalitis is a thief. Depending on the cause, even with treatment, up to 4 in 10 people affected will die. For the families of those who survive, it often robs them of the person they once knew.

Despite this, 77% of people have never heard of encephalitis.

This year’s World Encephalitis Day Appeal is dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of people whose lives have been changed forever - to raise awareness of the symptoms of encephalitis.

Think Brain in FLAMES, Think Encephalitis.