A MALVERN mum will be hitting the streets of the capital and following in the footsteps of her former partner to raise cash for Brain Tumour Research.
Kate Lindon will be lacing up running shoes for the London Marathon on April 28 to ‘do her bit’ and raise money for the charity which calls for support, action and research into what is called the last battleground against cancer.
The mum-of-two will be running in support of her children’s father and former Observer reporter Ben who was diagnosed with a brain tumour ten years ago and has undergone radiotherapy and more than 100 rounds of chemotherapy.
Ben was diagnosed with inoperable grade 2 glioblastoma brain tumour a week before his 29th birthday and, despite having been told all his treatment would render him infertile, the pair were lucky enough to have two children.
“Although we’re no longer together as a couple, we’re firmly on the same team,” said Kate.
While Ben’s tumour is stable, the long term effects of his treatment have meant he is not as mobile as he used to be and is in assisted living and having to rely on carers and the use of a mobility scooter.
“For someone who ran the marathon for Brain Tumour Research himself only a few years ago, this is a huge lifestyle change. Despite living with a brain tumour, Ben has undertaken a challenge to raise funds every year for the charity and now he’s less able it’s over to me to carry on his work,” said Kate.
“I’m not a runner. I’m not particularly sporty and I’ve never done anything like this before but I’m going to do my best, even if that means crawling over the finish line!
“Every penny really does count for families like us so I would hugely appreciate any donations,” she added.
Kate is holding a number of fund-raising activities including a supper club at The Fig in Malvern later this month.
Supporters can also donate and dedicate ‘memory miles’ to a loved one who has fought a battle against cancer, is still fighting or someone who is sadly no longer with them.
Kate will then attach their names to her running vest and take them with her on the journey around London.
Anyone with raffle donations is also asked to contact Kate on [email protected] or call 07751 664595.
Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/katelindonmarathon2019 for more.
