After losing her beloved sister to a brain tumour, Kaz Melvin is campaigning in her memory to help find a cure.
Ria Melvin was just 23 when she was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Following her diagnosis, Ria became a passionate campaigner and worked with Brain Tumour Research to raise awareness of brain tumours.
Earlier this year, she said: “In the two years since I started my brain tumour journey, I have met a lot of people who have had to fundraise and go abroad to access alternative treatments unavailable to us in the UK. I have spoken to my local MP who is the parliamentary private secretary to the Prime Minister and told him about this and the desperate need to increase the national investment into brain tumour research.
“It gives me a real sense of purpose, knowing I am helping others in my situation.”
Ria passed away in August, aged 25. Her sister, Kaz (pictured left, with Ria) said: “Campaigning meant a lot to Ria. It gave her a renewed sense of purpose and sense of meaning to her life. But more than that, it helped to start to come to terms with her own diagnosis which was an important turning point in her journey. She started to feel part of something bigger and wanted to fight to improve outcomes for others in the same situation.
“As a family we will continue Ria’s work and campaign for brain tumour research in her name.”
Campaigning brings purpose and, most of all, it brings hope. You can help us bring hope by campaigning with us to increase the national investment for research into this devastating disease. If you’d like to join us, please fill in our online form here.