Key worker completes marathon at home in Abbots Langley to fundraise for brain tumour charity

Dominic Edwards, 43, from Abbots Langley said his mum, Lorraine Edwards, was diagnosed with an aggressive brain tumour in 2011.

She received various forms of treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy.

He said: "Nothing could save her and she passed away a year later, aged 65.

"I can remember feeling incredibly shocked on discovering that less than 20 percent of those diagnosed with a brain tumour survive beyond five years, compared with an average of 50 percent across all cancers."

Dominic Edward's mum, Lorraine. Credit: Dominic Edwards

The deputy headteacher decided to run 26 miles in his own home with his rescue dog, Luna. 

The charity funds research and campaigns for the government and larger cancer charities to invest more to find a cure.

Mr Edwards thought the cancellation or postponement of fundraising events because of the coronavirus pandemic would have a huge impact on the charity's income.

His run has so far raised £467 for the charity.

He added: "It was all for a very worthwhile cause. I hope that my efforts to raise much needed funds will help bring an end to other families suffering the heartbreak of losing a loved one to brain tumour."

Dominic and his dog, Luna. Credit: Dominic Edwards

Mr Edwards is now encouraging his pupils at the University College School Junior Branch in North London, to take part in the challenge, via video conferencing to students at home or in assembly to children of key workers.

He said: "I'm hoping that some of our pupils will think doing their own challenge will be a bit of fun in these difficult times."

Brain Tumour Research spokesperson Hugh Adams said: "It's impossible not to be touched by Dominic's story.

"Like many organisations the coronavirus pandemic has meant a massive financial hit for us and we're anticipating the loss of 50 percent of our annual income in just three months."

To donate go to https://www.justgiving.com.