🏃‍♀️Running the London Marathon in Memory of Ria and Ryan

On Sunday 26th April 2026, I’ll be taking on the London Marathon in memory of two incredible people —Ria and Ryan—whose lives were sadly affected by brain tumours.

Ria bravely endured multiple surgeries, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and private immunotherapy in Germany before sadly passing away in August 2021 at just 25. I first met Ria when she started at Loughborough University in 2014, and we quickly became close friends. We shared the football pitch, countless social events, and built a bond that was full of laughter, support, and unforgettable memories. Her strength and spirit left a lasting impact on everyone who knew her.

Ryan was diagnosed in 2017 and made a remarkable recovery, going on to marry his wife Meg and become a proud dad to their daughter Mia. Tragically, the cancer returned, and Ryan passed away in December 2024 at the age of 27, leaving behind his 3-year-old daughter.

Their stories are a powerful reminder of the urgent need for more research. Brain tumours receive less than 1% of national cancer funding, despite being the most common cancer in people under 40. Through this marathon, we’re raising vital funds to help change these statistics and honour their memory.

This page also supported our annual fundraiser for 2025 which was a trek up Snowdon on 19th July, completed by a team of family and friends who continue to carry Ria and Ryan’s legacy forward:

The Snowdon Team:

Carol Melvin – Ria’s Mum

Paul Hughes – Ryan’s Dad

Sarah Hughes – Ryan’s Mum

Chloe Gough – Ryan’s Cousin & Ria’s Friend

Sofie Armitage, Amy Longhurst, Sacha Brinkley, Lily Tyrimos, Jess Howard-Bourne, Dannielle Howard-Bourne, Rebecca Hopkins, Toni Smith, Alice Hassall, Aofie Hurley, Grace Pearson, Ellie Betteridge – Ria’s close university friends

💙 Every donation, share, and word of support helps us keep their memories alive and make a real difference in the fight against brain tumours. Thank you!