OUR CHALLENGE

We are joining former rugby star Lewis Moody and his wife Annie in their stadium to stadium challenge. Walking 420 miles, the distance of Murrayfield to Twickenham over the month of September between us in an effort to tackle Brain Tumours.

OUR STORY

Matthew was diagnosed with a Grade 4 Glioblastoma in July 2016 at the age of only 28. He was given 12 months to live but is thankfully still here and doing amazingly.

At the beginning of the pandemic a scan showed some re-growth after 4 years of clear scans. We felt our whole world crumbling down again around us as we were told Matt couldn't have treatment as the height of the pandemic. After 3 months Matthew had another scan on a newer MRI scan which showed there was actually no re-growth YET but there are some abnormalities which could show his cancer is waking up but could be just delayed changes from radiotherapy. Matthew is due a follow-up scan in September so we need a BIG distraction!

These last few months have been a rollercoaster so we are channeling all of that stress into fundraising ! As we love rugby and the incredible work that The Brain Tumour Charity does this challenge was perfectly suited. Our wonderful friend Maxine has so kindly joined our team and we are so grateful for her support. It's safe to say that she was a lot more excited to do this challenge than Matthew (sorry Matt)!!!

WHAT WILL MY DONATION FUND?

We set up The Matthew Smith Fund in 2018 and although we usually fund high grade Brain Tumour research, we will this time be putting the money towards The Lewis Moody Foundation who fund some incredibly vital services for The Brain Tumour Charity. 

Brain Tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40 and those who survive this devastating disease are often left with life-limiting side effects. The Foundation funds support to improve lives, through a series of family and young adult days, funds research to change lives, identifying new treatment and diganostic options, and funds awareness to save lives, through our award winning Headsmart Campaign. Every penny you give today will go towards funding these vital projects, helping to build a world in which brain tumours have been tackled for good. 

We hope you will donate to this wonderful cause. We dream that one day there will be a cure for this devastating disease. Thank you so much for your support!

Hayley, Maxine and Matt (Oh and our sausage dog Link who will also be joining us on our 30 day challenge) x