Climbing Everest During Chemotherapy -

One Step at a Time

Two and a half years ago, I was diagnosed with a brainstem tumour.

Due to its location, it was inoperable—and even getting a diagnosis was incredibly difficult.

In October 2025, I chose to go ahead with a biopsy.

Thanks to my surgeon, Kevin O’Neill, we were finally able to identify the tumour type and mutation-vital information that now guides my treatment and potentially opens the door to clinical trials.

I have just completed six and a half weeks of radiotherapy, and I am now facing a full year of chemotherapy.

The Challenge

To stay focused and to give something back during treatment, I am taking on a year-long challenge:

I will virtually climb Mount Everest (8,848 metres) during my chemotherapy.

That’s nearly 3,000 floors of stairs—tracked step by step over 12 months.

I’ll be logging progress through:

• Stairs climbed (each floor = 3 metres of elevation)

• Outdoor elevation (walking on the Mendip Hills)

• Gym sessions

Some days, especially during treatment, it may only be a few floors. On better days, I will push further.

This isn’t about one big effort – it’s about keeping focus throughout the year whilst dealing with the effects of chemotherapy.

Why I’m Doing This

I’m fundraising for the Brain Tumour Research Campaign (BTRC), founded by Kevin O’Neill and Wendy Fulcher.

They are developing a dedicated Adult Brainstem and Deep Brain Lesion Programme - the first of its kind in the world. The programme will address the critical lack of dedicated research and treatment for brainstem and deep brain tumours which are difficult to access and diagnose safely. This initiative aims to establish a comprehensive, integrated platform combining surgical, molecular, optical, and clinical data to improve diagnosis and outcomes for these challenging tumours

The aim is simple but powerful:

To turn some of the hardest-to-treat brain tumours into solvable problems.

How You Can Help

If you’re able to support, I would be incredibly grateful.

Every donation - no matter the size - helps fund vital research and brings hope to thousands of people facing similar diagnoses.

If you’re unable to donate, sharing this page would mean just as much.

Follow the Journey

I’ll be posting regular updates throughout the year, including:

• Monthly floors/metres climbed

• Progress through each chemotherapy cycle

• The reality of taking on this challenge during treatment

Every step counts.

Thank you so much for your support—it truly means a lot.