United behind a single mission: supporting the Everest Centre’s world-leading breakthroughs in childhood brain tumour research

Over a decade ago, Toby, the son of very good friends of mine from St. Andrew’s University, was diagnosed with a brain tumour. Feeling helpless to know how to support Toby's family, I decided to run the London Marathon to raise money for Brain Tumour Charity.

For Rob and Tanya, the terrible news inspired an amazing ambition and energy to aid research into what is still the biggest cancer killer in children. Their determination created Everest in the Alps, a demanding physical challenge that has in 10 years has helped raise £6m to fund vital research into brain tumours. It is now time for me to step back into fundraising for Brain Tumour Charity and there is no better challenge to take part in.

I have been overwhelmed by the bravery of Toby and the stories of children like him and the families who are affected by this cruel situation every day. I have also been inspired by the progress made with the help of the money raised, which has created The Everest Centre, providing the space and resources for an international collaboration of world-leading scientists to pioneer new treatments. This includes advanced cutting-edge technologies to improve diagnostic tests, developing AI tools for more precise tumour classification and identifying pathways by which cancer cells grow. It has also carried out the largest immune study ever on childhood brain tumours.

Real progress has been made, but the need is urgent and more must be done to help find a cure for Toby, who is now 18, and children like him.

On 22nd February 2026, together with a team of 5 friends (some from St. Andrews University – hence the team name of “The Summit Saints”) I am yomping on skis the height of Everest, in the Alps. Over 4 days I will ascend 8,848m, working for 10-12 hours per day and burn at least 10,000 calories each day. My training programme is every bit as exhausting as training for the marathon 10 years ago. I have covered the entire cost of this trip myself so every penny I raise will go to this vital research into brain tumours.

I really hope you can you support me.

Thank you