Real stories

We are extremely grateful to our supporters for allowing us to share their inspiring stories. We hope their tireless and enthusiastic efforts will inspire you to get involved.

Mike's story

In 2005, at the age of 24, Mike was left fighting for his life after colliding with a van during a cycle ride.

Yog's Story

Iorwerth (‘Yog’) was diagnosed with an apple-sized brain tumour in 2012, after doctors initially mistook his symptoms for migraine.

Richard's story

Richard was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour at the age of 35. Following treatment, his condition is stable. Now it is watch and wait.

Louise's Story

In August 2019, at the age of 33, Louise suffered a seizure which led to the diagnosis of a brain tumour.

Alex's story

In 2016, at the age of 26, Alex collapsed and was rushed to hospital unconscious.

Alicia's story

Alicia supports Brain Research UK in memory of her Mum, who died of Multiple System Atrophy (MSA).

Jo's story

Jo was 22 when a stroke changed her life forever. This happened without warning, whilst cycling in the Highlands.

Anthony’s story

Five-time Chelsea Flower Show award winner, Anthony, has a strong affinity with Brain Research UK

Mandy's memory walk

Tasha Scott organises an annual walk in memory of her Mum, Mandy, who sadly died from sporadic CJD in 2016.

Marleen's story

Marleen has suffered from migraine for around 18 years. She took part in the Virtual London Marathon in October 2020, raising a fantastic £1,315 for research, and is now training for the 2021 London Marathon.

Jack’s story

Having discovered that he had inherited the faulty gene responsible for Huntington's disease, Jack ran the 2017 London Marathon to raise funds for research.

Jack's story

Jack and fifteen of his friends ran a marathon on 10th July 2021 to mark fifteen years since Jack’s father suddenly passed away from a brain haemorrhage.

James's story

James has just turned 12 but mum Jane feels heartbroken at how different the last six years have been for him, compared to other boys of his age.

Jessie's story

In 2015, whilst on holiday in South Africa, Jessie suffered a traumatic brain injury. In October2020, she took part in the Virtual London Marathon and ran 26.2 miles over the course of 24 hours, raising almost £3,000!

Roger's story

Roger has supported us for over 15 years. In 2020, just before the pandemic, he ran seven marathon on seven continents in seven days!

Sophie's story

Sophie was out with friends when a fall caused life-threatening brain damage. Just two years later she completed the 2019 London Marathon, raising £5,600 for brain research!

Stone and River Three Peaks Challenge

In September 2019, Lucy, Izzy, Sophie and Oliver organised and undertook their own Three Peaks Challenge in memory of Sue Grist.

Ed and James climb Mount Elbrus

In July 2018, Ed and James climbed Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe, inspired by family experiences of neurological conditions.

Gary and Victoria’s pilgrimage

In May 2019, Gary and Victoria set out to walk the Camino de Santiago to raise funds in memory of their dear friend Bernadette.

The Mongol Rally

Gus Johnson and girlfriend Lissy Garland undertook the incredible challenge of driving more than 9,000 miles in battered old Fiat Panda 1.2l!