A KIND-HEARTED man has completed a series of fundraising events after two of his friends were diagnosed with brain tumours.
Matthew Gibson-Smith, from Glasgow, is supporting The Brain Tumour Charity with his efforts.
They support people affected by the condition, including Matthew's best friend Rhudi Kennedy, 21, who was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was 13-years-old.
The 20-year-old is also raising money in memory of his brother’s best friend, Murray, who passed away after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2019.
The university student has recently hosted a club night and a four-hour charity cycle, which was live streamed on Facebook.
He said: “I have been really inspired after seeing people close to me either lose their lives to or still live with the significant consequences of a brain tumour.
"Seeing Rhudi go through the ordeal of his diagnosis was painful - it meant that he wasn’t able to hang out with his friends at a time when we were all playing football and going to parties.
"But Rhudi didn’t let this get him down – he just concentrated on getting better. Soon, he was better than ever and back to always having a cheeky smile on his face.
“I am so pleased that Rhudi now works closely with The Brain Tumour Charity to support their vital work.
"I want to do something similar whilst also raising awareness of brain tumours and their signs and symptoms. I knew nothing about brain tumours then but now I know just how terrible they can be.”
Rhudi said: “It was brilliant to see so many people come together and raise money for The Brain Tumour Charity at the fundraising events.
"The amount of money raised is astonishing and I know that it will go towards vital research to improve the prospects for people who have been diagnosed with brain tumours.”
Alex Lochrane, Chief Executive of The Brain Tumour Charity, said: “Matthew’s dedicated fundraising for us is absolutely brilliant and we’re thrilled and humbled to have his support.
"Rhudi has been through so much and we’re proud to be able to support him in any way we can. Yet, the devastating loss of Murray demonstrates just why we must continue to work tirelessly to find a cure for brain tumours, which are the number one cancer killer amongst children and adults under 40.
“Raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of brain tumours is a vital aspect of our work. Our HeadSmart campaign has made really strong progress but we know there’s still so far to go until everyone affected has a speedy diagnosis, effective treatment and the best possible chance of survival and a good quality of life.
“Anyone affected by a brain tumour diagnosis can reach out to us on our Information and Support Line on 0808 800 0004 or email support@thebraintumourcharity.org.
"We’re here for you.”
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