A woman whose best friend is living with brain cancer has joined a team of more than 70 runners taking on the TCS London Marathon for Brain Tumour Research.
Mary Fitzpatrick-Greening was inspired to take on the 26.2-mile feat because her best friend Abi Smith is living with a brain tumour.
Abi (pictured right, with Mary) was diagnosed with a high-grade glioma in July 2019 at the age of 24 after suffering from double vision. Abi underwent surgery to remove the section of the tumour which stretched to the top of her spine. She has had gruelling radiotherapy and chemotherapy to treat the remaining mass on her brain, which is inoperable due to its location.
Mary said: “I saw Abi a few weeks before she was diagnosed and she was fit and healthy. It was hard to comprehend the news that she had a brain tumour, surreal even. We were both in our early twenties, and at that age you think you’re somewhat invincible.”
Speaking to presenter Jason Rosam during an interview on BBC Radio London, Abi said her pal was “absolutely amazing”, adding: “I cried when she first told me she was doing it”.
Mary added: “Having a training plan and reason to run certainly helps motivate me on the cold and wet days. Knowing Abi will be there on the day to cheer me on will make it all the more special.”
To support Mary’s fundraising with a donation, visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/MaryFitzpatrickGreening
If you got a place in the ballot, why not join our Fighting Force team to help us find a cure for brain tumours? Contact Carol, National Events Manager, via carol@braintumourresearch.org to find out more.
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