A devoted mother from Kent is undertaking a 200-kilometre walking challenge throughout May to support her daughter, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour that she initially believed would be fatal. Judy Farnfield, 57, of Hawkhurst, is raising funds for Brain Tumour Research, the only national charity dedicated to finding a cure for all types of brain tumours.
A Childhood Diagnosis
Olivia Legg, now 23, was diagnosed with a pilocytic astrocytoma in November 2007 at the age of five. After enduring two surgeries and two years of chemotherapy, she is now thriving. Judy, also mother to Henry and Georgie, recalled: "When I was told Olivia had a brain tumour, I thought it was a death sentence. For two years, life really stopped, and it was all about Olivia and her treatment."
Judy's second cousin died from the disease, which made the diagnosis even more harrowing. "It was a horrible death. Olivia is an independent woman now, and I'm super proud of her. She still has headaches and weakness down her right side, but she doesn't suffer from self-pity and just gets on with things. What I can't believe is her determination and her enthusiasm for life. It's just incredible, and it makes my heart sing."
The Brain Tumour Research Challenge
Judy is participating in the 200k in May Your Way challenge, where supporters cover the distance by walking, running, cycling, or swimming. She stated: "This is so close to our hearts, and it's vital that research into brain tumours is properly funded. They are not given as much government funding as other cancers, so I want to do my bit to help."
Brain tumours kill more children and adults under 40 than any other cancer, yet only 1% of national cancer research funding has been allocated to brain tumours since 2002. The Brain Tumour Research Centre of Excellence at the University of Plymouth is studying the origins of glioma tumours, including pilocytic astrocytoma, to develop more effective treatments.
Olivia's Journey
In 2007, Olivia's teacher noticed her right arm hanging down and difficulty with buttons and shoelaces. After initial reassurance from a GP, an MRI scan at Tunbridge Wells Hospital revealed the tumour on her brainstem. In December 2007, she underwent surgery at King's College Hospital in London, where surgeons removed 60% of the tumour due to its sensitive location.
Olivia then underwent chemotherapy. Judy said: "Olivia asked if she was going to lose her hair, but she took it really well and was very positive throughout. The treatment made her legs weak, so she had to wear splints at night. She also needed a wheelchair. Then she had a second surgery just six months later because a cyst had grown under the tumour, affecting her ability to walk."
Today, Olivia has annual MRI scans that remain stable. Charlie Allsebrook, community fundraising manager at Brain Tumour Research, commented: "Olivia's story is truly inspiring, and it's great to see how well she is doing. We are incredibly grateful to Judy for taking on this challenge to help shine a light on the devastating impact of brain tumours and the urgent need for increased research funding."
The charity campaigns for a national annual spend of £35 million to improve survival rates and outcomes. To support Judy, visit justgiving.com/fundraising/judy1775471445183. To sign up for 200k in May Your Way, visit braintumourresearch.org/pages/fundraise-200k-in-may.
