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

10 years ago, Toby, the son of very good friends of mine from St. Andrew’s University, was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

This unimaginable horror changed his parents’ lives forever but, at the same time, inspired an amazing ambition and energy to aid research into what is still the biggest cancer killer in children. Rob and Tanya’s determination created Everest in the Alps, a demanding physical challenge I am now undertaking that has in the last 10 years helped raise £6m to fund this vital research into brain tumours.

I have been overwhelmed by the bravery of Toby and the stories of children like him and the families who are affected by this horrible 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 to be fit for this challenge starts every day at 4.30am before work and 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

Toby