Sophie
02 October 2022
Run
I am fundraising for Nerve Tumours UK on behalf of my niece Sophie and her 2 year old daughter Lexie who both have NF2. NF2 is a rare genetic condition which causes tumours to grow on the nerves in the brain and spine and other parts of the body. Although these tumours are usually benign they are not harmless. They will typically affect primarily the auditory nerves (as well as others) and most people with NF2 will suffer partial or total hearing loss as well as having problems with balance. The condition can be life-limiting and also sometimes causes sight loss and loss of mobility. There is currently no cure for NF2. The tumours can only be managed by often aggressive treatments such as surgical removal, chemotherapy and radiotherapy. The damage to the nerves caused by the tumours and their management is permanent and can be life-changing.
Sophie was diagnosed with the condition over 8 years ago in her mid-teens and has since lost her hearing completely. She has undergone several surgeries to remove/shrink the tumours as well as radiotherapy. She currently endures chemotherapy every three weeks. She is the bravest person I know and I am constantly bowled over by her courage, her sunny personality and her fierce determination to be the fantastic mum and role model to her young daughter that she is.
In October last year I was so inspired by the stories and courage of many of the participants in the Virgin Money London Marathon that I decided, on impulse, to enter the ballot for the 2022 London Marathon myself. I aim to raise as much money as possible for Nerve Tumours UK - a charity that supports sufferers of NF1, NF2 and other nerve tumour conditions. The only problem is that I am rather overweight!
Therefore my goal (and my pledge) is twofold - one, to lose at least 50% of my starting total bodyweight (19 stone 4.5 pounds) and to get myself fit to run the marathon in October 2022 and two, to actually run the marathon! I have just under 10 stone to lose and I haven’t run anywhere in more years than I care to remember. So, at age 51, this will be quite the challenge of my life! But I am determined to succeed. If I am not lucky enough to win a place in the marathon by ballot then I will either apply for a charity place sponsored directly by Nerve Tumours UK or I will sign up to one of the formal virtual London Marathon challenges to be held on the same day as the actual event. In any event I will be taking part in the marathon in one form or another in October.
Thank you so much for taking the time to read my story. Please donate whatever you can afford - every penny will help - and even if you cannot donate please share my page! I would love for Fat Lady Slim to go viral! 100% of the money raised will go direct to Nerve Tumours UK and will help to support people like my lovely niece and great niece who are suffering NF2 and other nerve tumour conditions.
Sir Derrick of Eaton
18/06/2022
Keep it going! X
£10.00
11/02/2022
No message provided
£30.00
Marie
30/01/2022
So inspiring!!! Good luck Anita xx
£10.00
Aunty Shirl
29/01/2022
Well done, Anita. A great challenge that I am sure you you have the will to conquer.
£20.00
Mum
29/01/2022
Well done, Anita. So proud of you and my grand daughter, you both have amazing courage and determination!
£25.00
Theresa
28/01/2022
Well done, Anita. The very best of luck with your marathon prep. Rather you than me !!! 😘😘😘💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖💖
£10.00
28/01/2022
No message provided
£10.00
Registered Charity Number: 1078790 and SC045051
Nerve Tumours UK has taken reasonable care to ensure that the information contained on this website and in its newsletters, literature is accurate. Nerve Tumours UK cannot accept liability for any errors or omissions, or for information becoming out-of-date. Any information given is not a substitute for getting appropriate medical advice from your own GP or other healthcare professional.
Website by Optima