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Sarah's fundraiser for The Brain Tumour Charity

sarah de Groen is raising money for The Brain Tumour Charity
In memory of Rachel

Cycling the Wild Atlantic Way · 20 July 2026

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world’s leading brain tumour charity and the largest dedicated funder of research into brain tumours globally. Committed to saving and improving lives, we’re moving further, faster to help every single person affected by a brain tumour. A cure really can’t wait

Story

On 20th July, I'll set off to cycle the entire Wild Atlantic Way. One of the world's most breathtaking and challenging cycling routes.

Over the following 20 days, I'll cycle approximately 2,600 kilometres along Ireland's rugged west coast, climbing more than 20,000 metres, with the aim of finishing on 12th August.

I chose those dates very deliberately.

Rachel was just 19 years old when she was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

She was 20 years old when she died.

If all goes to plan, I'll finish this journey on 12th August, the anniversary of the day our family's world changed forever.

This ride isn't just a cycling challenge.

It's my way of honouring Rachel's life.

Rachel had the gentlest heart. She adored children and was happiest babysitting her nieces and nephews, spending time with children with additional needs, and helping anyone who needed her. She never looked for recognition. She simply made people feel loved.

No family ever imagines they'll hear the words, "It's a brain tumour."

Ours did.

Everything changed from that moment on.

For years, I've wanted to do something worthy of Rachel. Something that would keep her memory alive while helping other families facing the same heartbreak.

This ride is that promise.

Every mile I cycle is for Rachel.

Every climb is in her memory.

Every donation helps fund vital research into better treatments and, one day, a cure.

I've chosen to support Brain Tumour Research because brain tumours remain one of the biggest cancer killers of children and adults under 40 in the UK. The charity funds life-saving scientific research to improve treatments and bring us closer to a cure.

Throughout the journey, I'll be sharing the highs, the struggles, the breathtaking scenery and the moments that remind me why I started.

If Rachel's story has touched you, I'd be incredibly grateful if you would consider supporting this challenge.

Whether you donate £5 or £500, every contribution brings hope to families facing a brain tumour diagnosis.

Thank you for helping Rachel's legacy live on.

Life is here. Life is now.

Sarah ❤️

https://www.thebraintumourcharity.org/news/supporter-stories/she-completely-changed-how-i-choose-to-live-sarahs-tribute-to-her-sister/

Donation summary

Total
£384.23
+ £65.75 Gift Aid
Online
£384.23
Offline
£0.00

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