Trustee treks the Sahara to sustain scientists’ vital work

26 February 2025 Brain Tumour Research

2 min read

A Wimbledon woman who has been a long-term supporter of our Charity is furthering her selfless commitment to our cause by taking part in Trek Sahara 2025.

Denise Sefton, 49, an executive coach and consultant, has been a Trustee of Brain Tumour Research since 2023, and is now preparing to trek 50km across the Sahara Desert on our behalf.

Denise is dedicating the epic undertaking to her nephew Theo Howden, who died in September 2017 at just four years old; her stepsister Lynne, who was diagnosed and treated for a brain tumour in 2012; and her friend, Amy, who is currently being treated for multiple tumours.

Denise said: "My nephew Theo was a wonderful, bubbly boy who adored Power Rangers and dinosaurs. At just two years old, he started feeling unwell. His parents knew something wasn’t right. Initially, doctors dismissed it as a virus or common illness, but when symptoms persisted, they pushed for a second opinion. That’s when tests revealed his devastating diagnosis."

Theo was diagnosed with an anaplastic ependymoma, a rare type of brain tumour that develops in the fluid-filled spaces of the brain. He bravely underwent surgery and proton beam therapy, but sadly died at just four years old, with his loving parents, Dan and Harriet, by his side. Theo’s older brother, Jack, is now applying to medical school, inspired by the care his brother received and determined to make a difference.

Now, Denise will take on our four-day Trek Sahara challenge starting on 27^th March alongside 15 others who, united in their common cause to stop brain tumours devastating lives, will tackle unforgiving terrain and blistering heat across 50km of desolate desert.

Denise said: “Brain tumours don’t just affect the elderly or vulnerable. They can impact anyone and are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40. My stepsister was diagnosed in her 30s, my nephew was just two, and my close friend Amy was diagnosed at 43 with 25 metastasised tumours from ovarian cancer. This is why continued research is vital."

You can help Denise in her generous support of our work by donating to her JustGiving page.