#Brainathlon week begins today

Brain Tumour Research

1 min read

19 April 2021

Today marks the start of the first ever #Brainathlon week.

Brainathlon is a new fundraising challenge and collaboration between three leading neuro charities, Brain Tumour Research, Brain Research UK and Epilepsy Research UK.

This exciting walk, run and climb relay event challenges participants to walk 10 miles, run 15 miles and climb 1.2 miles (by walking up 2,500 individual stairs or equivalent) to complete the full 26.2 miles of the Brainathlon. All funds raised will be shared equally between the three charities to support research, improve outcomes and help people affected by neurological conditions, including brain tumours and epilepsy.

Eleven-year-old Amy Hayes is amongst those who are taking part. She was inspired to fundraise after her uncle, Philip Tyler, was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) brain tumour in March 2020. Amy completed her challenge during the Easter school holidays and raised £340 – THREE TIMES more than the target she originally set herself - on her JustGiving page.

Amy, who is also selling handmade cards, treat jars and other craft items to raise funds for Brain Tumour Research, said: “Our whole family is enormously proud of Uncle Phil as he fights this cruel disease. We love him with all our hearts.

“With help from friends and family, I am trying to raise as much money as possible for Brain Tumour Research to help prevent other families going through such a scary time as we are.

“My goal is to raise £2,740 to sponsor a day of research at one of the Brain Tumour Research Centres of Excellence. Once I hit this target, I will get to place a special tile on the Wall of Hope, which will be incredibly special to me and my family.”

Good luck to everyone taking on the #Brainathlon this week. We know you’ll smash it.