Theo Burrell

1 min read

Patron

Antiques Roadshow expert Theo Burrell became a Patron of Brain Tumour Research in November 2023, a year after her diagnosis with a glioblastoma. She worked tirelessly with us until her death on 8th July 2026, at the age of just 39.  

Theo played a pivotal role in helping us launch the Scottish Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence, where research is focused on moving new treatments for glioblastoma into clinical trials. Those who heard her moving speech at the official opening of the Scottish Centre in January 2025 will always remember her resilience and commitment to changing the story for brain tumours patients and their loved ones.  

She was a committed campaigner, calling on governments to end inequalities faced by brain tumour patients. As well as being a regular attendee at Cross-Party Group on Brain Tumours in Holyrood, in 2023 Theo joined us on the steps on Number 10 Downing Street to hand in our petition demanding that Government recognises research into brain tumours as a priority.  

Even during her treatment, including undergoing further surgery and chemotherapy for recurrence of her tumour, she remained steadfast in calling for better outcomes for brain tumour patients, including during a tour of the Scottish Centre with then Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting, in March this year. Just days later, Theo also joined us at Holyrood where she supported the launch of our Manifesto for Scotland. 

An active fundraiser, Theo supported our Wear A Hat Day and Walk of Hope campaigns, took part in fundraising challenges, and hosted her own events, including an exclusive whisky tasting at The Caledonian Club in London. In July 2025, she completed our 88 Squats a Day in July challenge whilst undergoing chemotherapy to treat recurrence of her tumour.  

Theo’s impassioned speech about living with glioblastoma and the heartbreaking likelihood of not living long enough to see her son grow up will never be forgotten by those who attended our gala dinner where we marked our 15th anniversary and launched our Closer to a Cure impact report in March 2025. 

Theo’s openness about her prognosis and her absolute determination to make a difference for others, knowing she would not survive her own diagnosis, was an inspiration and source of hope for many in the brain tumour community. She will remain forever in our hearts as we continue our work to find a cure for this devastating disease.

Read Theo’s story 

Instagram: @theo.burrell 

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