Tom Sanderson, a Morpeth native, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour two decades ago, has completed 20 charity walks across the UK and Ireland.

His journey started in early 2023, precisely marking 20 years since his diagnosis, and was aimed at spreading awareness about brain tumour symptoms.

The MP for Hexham, Guy Opperman, who overcame his own brain tumour diagnosis in 2011, honoured Mr Sanderson's efforts on Tuesday, March 19. Opperman had previously joined Sanderson on one of his Northumberland walks in the autumn.

Both men met at Westminster to present a cheque worth £11,435.63 raised from the walks, to Stephanie Kleynhans at The Brain Tumour Charity.

Mr Sanderson, who currently resides in London, was only 16 years old studying at a boarding school in Scotland when he was first diagnosed. His persistent headaches, sickness, fainting spells and inability to concentrate were initially mistaken as adolescent anxiety.

A severe crisis during Christmas at his Morpeth home eventually led to the discovery of his Grade one Astrocytoma, following an induced coma and emergency surgery.

Today, Mr Sanderson is determined to shed light on brain tumour symptoms through his walking challenges. Over 200 people, as well as two infants and 12 dogs, have joined him on his walks, helping to raise funds and spotlight the severity of brain tumours.

Mr Sanderson said: "It’s vital to raise awareness of early warning signs of brain tumours as they can often present as a minor illness, but if someone is experiencing two or more of the common symptoms it is so important to get in front of a medical professional for advice.  

“Awareness is rising, but there is so much more to be done. The treatment for this condition remains incredibly intrusive and life-changing and there needs to be more research and investigation into the treatment and rehabilitation of the condition."

 

 

Mr Opperman, MP said: "Tom’s fundraising for the Brain Tumour Charity is very personal to me, as a brain tumour survivor myself. Sadly, only 12% of brain tumour patients survive beyond five years of diagnosis. This is why fundraising efforts like Tom’s are so critically important. We must find a cure. Well done, Tom. You are an inspiration.”