A Gloucestershire woman has pledged to undertake a monumental year-long running challenge to support loved ones diagnosed with brain tumours and to raise crucial funds for research.
A Deeply Personal Mission
Rebecca John, aged 37 from Gloucester, will run a half marathon every single month throughout 2026. Her mission is driven by the experiences of her brother, Rich Morris, and close friend, Laura Ravenscroft, who were both diagnosed with meningioma brain tumours. Rebecca aims to generate vital funds and awareness for the national charity Brain Tumour Research.
An established runner, Rebecca has already secured her place in several events for the first part of the year. Her confirmed races include the Birmingham Half Marathon, Cardiff Half Marathon, Gloucester Half Marathon, and Tewkesbury Half Marathon, with more to be added as the year progresses.
"Seeing two people I love go through this has changed everything," Rebecca said. "You feel helpless, but running is something I can do. If every mile helps raise awareness, funds research, or encourages someone to seek medical advice, then it’s worth every step. I’m doing this for Rich, for Laura, and for everyone facing this terrifying diagnosis."
The Stories Behind the Challenge
Her brother, Rich Morris, was diagnosed with a 5cm meningioma in March 2023 at the age of 40, following years of pulsatile tinnitus and blurred vision. "I was in complete shock," Rich recalled. "The essence of my world broke down in front of me." His driving licence was immediately revoked due to the risk of seizures.
Rich underwent a seven-hour operation at Southmead Hospital in May 2023 to remove the tumour. He is now stable and undergoes annual MRI surveillance. Previously, he raised over £600 for Brain Tumour Research by completing its 'Cycle 274 Miles in August' challenge.
"If it wasn’t for the people before me diagnosed with the disease, I feel like my story could be very different," Rich added. "Everybody’s case is unique. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to treatment which is why we need to find a cure."
Rebecca's friend, Laura Ravenscroft, lives with two meningiomas and requires MRI scans every six months. She will need surgery if the tumours grow beyond 3cm.
Driving Change for Brain Tumour Research
Brain tumours are among the most complex cancers to treat, with more than 100 different types. Brain Tumour Research is the only national charity in the UK focused solely on funding sustainable, long-term research at dedicated Centres of Excellence.
The charity campaigns for the Government and larger cancer charities to invest more, calling for a national annual spend of £35 million on brain tumour research to improve survival rates in line with other cancers like breast cancer and leukaemia.
Letty Greenfield, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, said: "We are incredibly grateful to Rebecca for taking on such an inspiring and demanding challenge. Stories like Rich’s and Laura’s highlight exactly why our work is so urgently needed. Fundraisers like Rebecca are the driving force behind change."
Rebecca issued a rallying call to others: "I’d love others to step up too, take on a challenge, big or small, and help drive the change we desperately need. Together, we can improve outcomes for everyone affected by brain tumours."
To support Rebecca’s fundraising efforts, donations can be made via her JustGiving page.
