I'm going to be taking part in the 2023 GNR this September for The Brain Tumour Charity. By running for The Brain Tumour Charity, I'm aiding the charity's movement to defeat brain tumours sooner, by moving faster and further to find a cure. #ACureCantWait

After swearing never again in 2015, I'm so grateful (to my body, mind and NHS) to be in a position to run the course again, only this time this is not in memory of my bro, this time unfortunately for me. The aim is to raise as much money as possible to help with the continual research with the hope that one day find a cure. 

2 years have passed since I was diagnosed with Grade 3 astrocytoma. From the outside life looks pretty great, and for the most part it really is, I am so very grateful for all that I have and for those who have been there to rebuild me. But living with a brain tumour is unique compared to other cancers in that you wouldn't notice any different unless you know what had gone on - I now look the same as pre diagnosis, I can exercise to the same level, I socialise, I drive, I do school run and put on an almighty front daily for my two peaches and others around me. The reality is that I suffer with chronic fatigue, permanent speech deficits, memory loss, struggle in social situations, low immunity, cognitive behaviour and of late showing signs of early menopause. I am 33. There is NO CURE. At some point the stable scans will be no more, change will occur and if I'm lucky I will have a second round of my treatment. There is never going to be a remission, and that's what sucks with brain tumours. We have to live knowing that there will be a change. And that's pretty shit to get your head around.

Although I do have some side effects, I am healthy and I am still here with my gang. So, I pack that bit in a little box and shove it away, far far away, so I am able to keep going for my girls.

Running has been so much more than just trying to challenge myself. It's helping me release which is probably otherwise slowly eating me up inside. I am sure Si will agree that I'm a little more chilled on the back of my regular running. 

The Brain Tumour Charity is the world's leading brain tumour charity, specialising in research and support. Without their work there would be no hope for people like me to have a chance to live a normal (as possible) life. They're set on finding new treatments, offering support and driving for urgent change.

I hope you can donate as much as possible and if you can, support me in the training over the next few months, possibly meet me for a run I know some of you already have ;-) thanks all xo