Milton Keynes charity hosts Walk of Hope to help find a cure for brain tumours

Seven years after the first one, a Milton Keynes charity is hosting another Walk of Hope as it strives to find a cure for brain tumours '“ the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under the age of 40.
James NickelsonJames Nickelson
James Nickelson

The Brain Tumour Research charity whose headquarters are in Shenley Wood, has organised the walk along the Grand Union Canal on Saturday, September 29.

With a choice of completing 5.5 miles or 11 miles, the Grand Union Canal Walk of Hope once again invites participants to arrive at the Three Locks pub in Stoke Hammond from 9.30am for registration before setting out to walk along the towpath to The Grove Lock pub outside Leighton Buzzard.

Walkers will then be able to picnic or enjoy lunch and refreshments at the pub and, if they are feeling energetic, walk back to The Three Locks.

The registration fee is £15 for individuals and £20 for families. All walkers will receive a medal for being part of the charity’s fantastic Fighting Force and are welcome to bring dogs, as long as they remain on leads.

Diane Kelley of Tattenhoe said: “I have signed up to do the Grand Union Canal Walk of Hope inspired by my lovely grandson James Nickelson who lives in Monkston. It was a big shock when James, now 14, was diagnosed with a brain tumour two years ago which couldn’t be removed. He has recently completed 21 months of chemotherapy and is back at school.”

Michael Thelwall, head of community fundraising for the Brain Tumour Research charity said: “This is always a popular event for us as the whole family can get involved, which is why this year we have decided to give our supporters in other regions of the UK the opportunity to also experience the fun of a Walk of Hope!

“The money raised will help us in our mission to build a network of experts in sustainable research. We are funding dedicated UK Centres of Excellence where scientists are focused on improving outcomes for patients and, ultimately, finding a cure.

“For too long, brain tumours have been a neglected cancer and we cannot allow this desperate situation to continue. Sadly, less than 20% of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years compared with an average of 50% across all cancers.”

“We would encourage anyone that would like to take part, to get in touch.”

To register go to www.braintumourresearch.org/fundraise/take-on-a-challenge and click on Grand Union Canal Walk