London Marathon for Brain Tumour Research & Pets as Therapy

On 26 April, I will be running the London Marathon. Which is probably not a particularly good idea. I am doing so to raise money for Brain Tumour Research and Pets as Therapy. Which is.

I'm raising money for these two in memory of my mum, Sheila Stephens, who (following a stroke) was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2013 and passed away in 2019. Six years is a very long time in brain tumours, and we were incredibly lucky and grateful for that time, which I know many do not get. Mum was very proud at the end that she had been classified a 'long term survivor' and that a biopsy of her tumour could contribute to research in the hope that fewer people, and fewer families, have to meet this gruesome disease. The BTR do amazing work, and I am honoured to support them.

In her career, my mum was an Occupational Therapist. She enjoyed doing 'home visits', recommending adjustments to patients' homes so that they could return, and retain their dignity and their independence. In 2003, she acquired a sidekick, a 'Pets as Therapy' dog named Holly, who would join her in hospitals and help patients in ways a pet can. Mum immediately got a demotion in her patients' eyes from 'experienced Occupational Therapist' to 'the lady who brings the dog', but it was clear that Holly brought a great deal of joy to those who needed it. Mum also taught me that, if you put a high vis yellow jacket on a labrador, you can literally go anywhere.

I felt that I wanted to commemorate mum's life, as well as her death, which is why I've decided to raise money for two charities as I was lucky enough to win a ballot place for the Marathon. Hugely thankful to both Pets as Therapy and Brain Tumour Research, for their flexibility, and hugely grateful for any donations.

Much love.
Pete x