Brain tumour research will benefit from donations to one man’s efforts as he plans to run two half marathons in one week including Guernsey’s Butterfield Half Marathon this Sunday.
Ed Jennings is taking on the double-half challenge because of his own experience with a brain tumour and his wish to help others in a similar situation.
He suddenly collapsed while skiing in Italy three years ago and the seizure led to a diagnosis of a brain tumour, specifically an IDH-mutated astrocytoma.
Mr Jennings said the prognosis is better in his case but he must have regular MRI scans after surgery and radiotherapy in Cambridge and Sydney.
“There is still a long road ahead, and vital research is needed to help others facing this diagnosis,” he said.
“Now that three years have passed since the beginning, it finally feels like the right time to give back.”
“In the course of my journey, there has been significant strain on my mental health. By taking on this running challenge, I hope to improve my lifestyle through running and inspire others to run, whilst supporting a cause very close to my heart.”
He’ll be joined for the first race – the Butterfield Guernsey Half on 14 September – by his friend and Guernsey Athletics Club member Ben Langlois.
Exactly one week later he will compete in his hometown in the Ipswich Half Marathon.
All funds raised from donations will support the charity Brain Tumour Research which campaigns to increase investment into scientific research.
Mr Jennings had raised £3,269 at the time of writing, and you can donate to his fundraiser HERE.
“It’s shocking that brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer, yet just 1% of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to brain tumours since records began in 2002. It simply doesn’t get the airtime or funding it deserves, and that’s what I want to help change,” he added.
Charlie Allsebrook, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: “Ed’s spirit in living alongside his diagnosis is admirable and we’re so grateful he’s shared his story and chosen to support Brain Tumour Research.
“With the support of people like Ed and Ben, we can drive forward the research needed to find less harsh treatments and, ultimately, a cure.”
