Personal Story:

Zoe Cox, President of Chartered Association of Building Engineers, has chosen to support Brain Tumour Research and Dementia UK as both dementia and brain tumours have had a deeply personal impact on her family, as well as on many within the wider professional community.

Zoe’s ‘nanna’, to whom she was very close, lived with dementia for several years before she sadly passed away 12 months ago. During that time, Zoe witnessed first-hand the devastating and often distressing effects of the disease. Dementia not only affects those diagnosed but also places a significant emotional and practical burden on their families. The limited availability of early diagnosis and consistent support makes this journey even more challenging. Supporting improved diagnosis, family support services and research towards a cure is something that matters greatly to her.

Her husband’s family has also been affected by serious illness. He sadly lost his aunt following an aggressive brain tumour, and once again the family saw the profound impact this diagnosis can have on the whole family. While the care and support they received were excellent, there remains a pressing need for continued research to advance treatment options and improve outcomes for those affected.

Zoe, and the rest of the Team are undertaking this coast-to-coast bike ride on 24-26 April 2026 in memory of Zoe’s nanna and her husband's aunt. By pushing themselves to their physical limits, they hope to raise as much money as possible to support vital research and services, and to help ease the suffering of others now and in the future.

This fundraising effort is also undertaken with thought for Richard Flynn, CABE’s Immediate Past President, who tragically lost his son, Brian, to a brain tumour. His loss serves as a powerful reminder that these conditions affect far too many families, including those within the CABE community.

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Brain Tumour Research

One in three people in the UK knows someone affected by a brain tumour. This disease is indiscriminate; and can affect anyone at any age. Just 1% of the UK’s spend on cancer research is looking at curing brain tumours yet it continues to kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.

Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity focused on finding a cure for all types of brain tumours and you can help fund the fight and find a cure.

Dementia UK

When someone is diagnosed with dementia, expert guidance and practical support is crucial for not just for those affected, but for their friends and family.

Dementia is a complex condition which can bring fear and uncertainty. Each day can introduce new and complicated challenges, and many carers end up having to pause their lives to provide support, which can leave them feeling alone and isolated

But Dementia UK offers a lifeline, as a specialist dementia nursing charity they provide life-changing advice and support for the whole family, and work towards a future where no one must face dementia alone.