The Brain Tumour Charity

Earlier this year, 52,000 of you backed our campaign calling for a National Brain Tumour Strategy. People affected by a brain tumour diagnosis can’t keep waiting for change. They need improvements across the care pathway—and they need them as soon as possible. That’s why it’s time to demand action on a National Brain Tumour Strategy! We’ve created a letter for you to send to your local MP, highlighting the challenges facing the brain tumour community. Use the link below to get matched with your local MP and send the letter. There is also space for you to share your personal experiences of being affected by a brain tumour diagnosis and explain why you’re demanding change. This will be included in your letter. Don’t forget to share this campaign widely—we’re heard so much more loudly when more people demand change. A National Brain Tumour Strategy can’t wait. Head to the link to demand action now. https://bit.ly/3Uf7wZG

You may have seen Davina’s update today about her recovery and how her short-term memory is “a bit remiss.” Memory loss is a common experience for those living with a brain tumour: one in two people we’ve spoken to have been affected. Memory changes can happen for several reasons, like the tumour’s location or treatment side effects. Surgery, chemotherapy, or radiotherapy can cause memory challenges, such as forgetting past events (retrograde amnesia) or struggling to remember new information (anterograde amnesia). If this feels familiar, you’re not alone. Memory aids, adapting your environment, or learning new planning techniques can help make daily life easier. Head to over to our website using the link to find out more. https://bit.ly/4eJqqzn

“Investment in research is vital, to encourage bright minds to ask new questions, and challenge existing ones around glioblastomas” - Baljit Ahluwalia When Baljit’s mum, Harbans, was diagnosed with a glioblastoma in 2019, it devastated the family. They discovered that treatment options were limited and hadn’t improved in decades. Harbans agreed to be part of an MRI-focused research project to improve targeted surgery, followed by chemo and radiotherapy. But, in February 2020, the tumour started to grow back and the family were told there were no other treatment options. Harbans died less than a year after her diagnosis. Four years on, her family are supporting research funded by us to help find new ways of understanding and treating glioblastoma.

This week we are attending The Society for Neuro-oncology annual meeting in Houston, Texas! This is a fantastic opportunity for us to catch up with researchers and clinicians in the field, from around the world - if you are attending, come to our booth to find out more about our funding opportunities! #SNO2024

A huge thank you to Kevin and his friends for completing an incredible coast-to-coast ride in memory of their close friend, Sam, who passed away from a brain tumour. The ride was originally Sam's idea, and Kevin and the team took on the challenge to honour his memory and raise over £1,500 for The Charity. Covering 141 miles and climbing an impressive 11,000 feet, the three-day journey from Whitehaven to Tyneside was no small feat. Kevin shared, “The C2C was a thoroughly enjoyable 3-day riding event in tribute to a truly great friend and for a great cause. Fantastic memories that will be cherished long after the aches and pains fade!” Thank you, Kevin and team, for your dedication and for making such a difference for those affected by a brain tumour diagnosis.

It was great to meet Minister Andrew Gwynne MP at Department of Health and Social Care yesterday alongside colleagues at Brain Tumour Research and OurBrainBank UK about the barriers and issues facing our community. We're determined to work together to make sure our voices are heard at the highest level. #ItsANoBrainer

Today is #CarersRightsDay. Being a carer for someone living with a brain tumour can be a difficult and isolating experience - but it can be a little easier if you’re aware of the support that may be available. This could include financial support, support from your employer, social support and more. If you or someone you know is a carer, check out our carers' resources, covering everything from your rights as a carer to the benefits you can claim. Head to the link to find out more.

Yesterday, as part of the Less Survivable Cancers Taskforce, we were proud to host a parliamentary drop-in at the House of Commons. The drop-in brought together the six charities that make up the taskforce to connect with MPs and spread the message for all those affected by a less survivable cancer. On average, just 16% of those with lung, pancreatic, liver, brain, oesophageal and stomach cancer will survive 5 years after diagnosis. This isn’t acceptable. That’s why the taskforce is dedicated to raising awareness of the need to improve outcomes for the six less survivable cancers. The event saw around 40 MPs drop in to hear more about the taskforce's work and how they can support. A huge thank you to Paulette Hamilton and Charlie Maynard for supporting this event and to our patient advocates Georgie and Sophie White for bravely sharing your experiences and advocating for the needs of the brain tumour community.

We were honoured to be invited to The Energy Council WECA 24 gala dinner as the very first charity partner. Supporting Katie Bernard and Martin Bell’s Team Syren, they both gave beautiful speeches about their experience of their son’s brain cancer diagnosis. We also want to give a huge thanks to Rob Ritchie who shared his story about launching Everest in the Alps, the ultra challenge. Thank you to WECA, Katie and Martin for inviting us as your charity partner and thank you to all the guests of the event for listening to our stories, asking insightful questions and donating generously.

Last month we attended The European Association of Neuro-Oncology (EANO) Conference in Glasgow. The conference was an opportunity for us to join in conversations about how to improve brain tumour care through research, and connect with experts in the brain tumour field. Our very own Healthcare Engagement Team also presented on key topics including how to support young people with their diagnosis and how brain tumours impact fertility. Ever wonder why we go to scientific conferences? Read more to find out