This year the New Malden Fun Run will be supporting St George's University Neurological Research Foundation in memory of the highly skilled neurosurgeon, Matthew Crocker. Matthew treated many patients in our local community including myself. 

In 2015 I was diagnosed with a very rare and incurable form of bone cancer called Chordoma. Through his deftness as a surgeon Matthew saved my life giving me precious time with my family; something I will be eternally grateful for. Over the past seven years he has been an anchor in our lives overseeing the ongoing management of my tumour.  

Matthew was a hugely dedicated doctor, offering support and care when my family was facing the darkest of times. He even ran a half marathon with me, joining Team Chordoma, which raised money for Chordoma UK in 2017. He was always generous with his time and encouragement and I know many local patients in his care felt the same way.

My family really do owe Matthew and St George's everything and so this year I'm delighted the organisers of the New Malden Family Fun Run are supporting a charity which I'm sure Matthew would have been pleased to see benefiting from donations. 

The primary aim of the Neurological Research Foundation at St George's is to provide funding for research in to the diagnosis and treatment of neurological conditions. These conditions include brain cancer, Parkinsons, spinal cord injuries and brain aneurysms. In placing patients at the centre of all they do, the advances made by the foundations work directly benefits patients who are facing the most challenging of times. 

If you would like to read stories from patients who have benefitted from the work of the Neurological Research Foundation please visit:
https://www.neurosciencesresearchfoundation.com/patient-stories

The fun run is a wonderful community event and suits runners of all abilities - personally I will be doing my best speed walking on the day! 

Thank you for your donations and supporting the New Malden Fun Run, whether it be a little or a lot it, it's all hugely appreciated. And don't forget there will be cake and refreshments on the day too.