24 Hour Marathon – Three Brothers Running for the Fourth
08 March 2021
Toby, James & Alex have just completed their incredible 24-hour marathon, running 1 mile (and a little extra to get to the 26.2 miles), every hour, over 24 hours, to commemorate 10 years since their brother Tristan passed away due to Neurofibromatosis Type 2.
Tristan was diagnosed with NF2 as a teenager, having several operations that left him with no hearing and facial palsy on one side of his face.

Despite this he met his NF2 head-on, whatever curveball was thrown at him, he always threw it back twice as hard. He learned to lip-read, fitted in time for sport, learnt to drive and continued on with his studies to gain a place at Leicester University.

Tristan demonstrated by his actions, that whatever adversities arise in life one should keep looking at the opportunities that are available and concentrate on those, rather than being overwhelmed by what one cannot do. With that in mind Toby, Alex & James prepared themselves for the Marathon.
The run began on the 5th of March, with James & Alex taking the approach that training wasn’t needed as “it’s only a mile and it won’t be too hard as we have the rest of the hour to recover”. Setting off on the first mile their smiles soon dropped as they realised how long a mile really was, but they were determined to push through and overcome the challenge.
Toby says “one of the biggest challenges we faced was one we did not consider – the stiffness in our legs. By constantly stop starting the lactic acid built up quickly”.

Off to a successful start the marathon started getting really tough around 3am, with all three brothers battling on not knowing whether it was so hard because of running in the cold or simply trying to stay awake.

Nonetheless, they completed the run. Alex and Toby managed to complete the whole distance, with brother James, unfortunately, having to sit out due to an injured ankle. All three brothers are blown away by how much they have raised and by completing this run they have shown that whilst Tristan may not be with them any longer, he is certainly not forgotten.
Their fundraiser is still open and you can support their valiant effort below.
Filter News

One More Nurse Appeal Press Release
Have a read of our #OneMoreNurse appeal press release here:
Read More
Recent Research from DR Shruti Garg
Find out more about some of the recent research carried out by DR Shruti Garag
Read More
Advisory group of parents needed to help shape future research
Maia Thornton is a PhD student looking for an advisory group of parents who's child has an appearance altering condition
Read More
Olivia’s Story
Olivia is an enthusiastic and determined young girl. Have a read of her inspiring story here!
Read More
The Big Lottery Fund pays for 2 Patient Info Days
Nerve Tumours UK receives Lottery funding
Read More
New research into non-discrimination law
Durham University is looking for participants who look different due to their health complications. such as NF.
Read More
Letter from our new Chair
A letter detailing the vision of our new chair, and the future of the charity.
Read More
Launch of Nerve Tumours UK
Following a major strategic review, the Neuro Foundation charity is now known as Nerve Tumours UK.
Read More
NF1 research award first for UK consultant
Dr Shruti Garg is the first non-US resident to receive NF1 $555,000 research award.
Read More