As many of you know in October 2011 I lost my big and only brother Rupert to a brain tumour, he had just turned 31. Rupert had no symptoms and it was only in December 2009 after a rountine eye test, that they discovered a large tumour, they operated 48 hrs later and the biopsy results came back on New Years Eve 2009 - it was confirmed it was malignant and Grade 4 cancer. Sadly after two further surgeries, 2 courses of chemotherapy and radiotherapy the tumour continued to grow and in the summer of 2011 treatment was stopped.

I had the honour of caring for Rupert in his final months, and was privileged to be with him as he passed away at 12.50pm on October 21st.

He was quite simply the best brother a girl could wish for, with the biggest and kindest heart. He was so gentle, funny and talented and I miss him everyday, I feel so lucky to have had him for 25 years.

16,000 people a year in the UK alone are diagnosed with a brain tumour, and are the biggest cancer killer in children. Brain tumour research is woefully under-funded and therefore lags significantly behind other cancers. Much more research is needed to discover the cause of brain tumours.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity. So it’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. I would be thrilled with any donations, as would my family and I know Rupert would be beaming.

Much love,

Poppy xx