Dover Woman Completes 120-Mile Walk for Brain Tumour Research in Friend’s Honour

A Dover resident has completed a 120-mile walk over 28 days, raising funds for charity in tribute to her friend who received a brain tumour diagnosis. Jo Lees, a former NHS employee, surpassed her objectives while participating in the “99 miles in November” challenge organized by the charity Brain Tumour Research. Ms. Lees, who is a full-time carer for her parents, dedicated this walking endeavor to her school friend, Claire Cain, who is awaiting surgery for a non-cancerous brain tumour. In 2021, Ms. Cain was diagnosed with acoustic neuroma, a type of tumour known to potentially cause issues with hearing and balance. Jo Lees stated: “Seeing the physical impact that brain tumours can have on a person is heart-breaking. “It’s especially heart-breaking when people of the same age are going through a diagnosis too.” The dedicated walker mentioned that her own family had previously been impacted by brain tumours, with a relative passing away after years of treatment and surgical procedures. Earlier this year, Ms. Lees had already accumulated £700 for Brain Tumour Research through her involvement in challenges held in May and August. Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, stated: “Brain tumours are indiscriminate. They can affect anyone at any age.” He continued: “We’re grateful to Jo for sharing her reason for supporting Brain Tumour Research. It’s only with the support of people like Jo, who is taking on one of our Facebook challenges, that will help us closer to find kinder treatments and eventually a cure for all types of brain tumours.” The organization is actively advocating for the government to commit an annual sum of £35 million to research, aiming to enhance brain tumour survival rates. For updates, follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story submissions can be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding our approach to external linking is available.