Laura’s Marathon effort!
29 January 2021
Laura decided to get fit for January, taking on our 26.5-mile New Year running challenge. A newbie to the running game, starting only last summer with a Couch to 5K, Laura decided to use her new running passion to help her three-year-old son Elliot, who was diagnosed with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1) in the summer of 2018.
“I couldn’t think of a better way to start raising awareness for Neurofibromatosis and supporting Nerve Tumours UK by running a total distance of 26.5 miles in January!”

When Laura first found out about Elliot’s condition, she says “it was a huge shock” & “rather intimidating”. Fortunately, she found out about Nerve Tumours UK and got in contact with one of our Specialist NF Nurses, who provided insight into her son’s condition and helped to alleviate some of her concerns.
“She was so knowledgeable, and I can’t describe the difference it made being able to pick up the phone and just talk and get advice. And the charity does so so much more than just that”
Laura has surpassed her target of 26.5 miles by more than 13.5 miles, completing a total of 41 miles in 10 runs over January!
The next step –
Laura is taking things even further and has organised an ‘Hour of Power’ online fitness fundraiser with Turner Fitness on the 14th of February, with the theme of ‘Love Yourself’ to coincide with Valentine’s Day. Anyone who joins the class can donate and 100% of the money raised will support Laura’s virtual marathon challenge.
If that wasn’t already enough, Laura has decided to match in miles the total amount of money raised in her marathon fundraiser. That means if she raises £500, she will be running 500 miles! Any donations made to her fundraiser from the 15th to 1st of March will mean she will match them by running even more miles. Go, Laura!
You can support Laura on her running challenge below.
Filter News

Adam Buxton Comedy Night in aid of Nerve Tumours UK
Our charity comedy night was certainly nothing short of a success. Find out exactly what went down here:
Read More
Meet Megan
Megan Crews is a 30 year-old special needs tutor in Salisbury. She recently spoke out in The Sun.
Read More
How does your visible difference affect you?
Researchers would love to understand your experience of how a visible difference affects your daily life
Read More
Gabriella’s Story
"I believe everyone should think the same and be kind to people however they look and whatever condition they have."
Read More
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