On Monday 1 September, childhood cancer researcher Jacob Byrne is lacing up his running shoes and taking the first steps of an extraordinary challenge: 30 marathons in 30 days across Perth.
His campaign, Big Run for Little Brains, aims to raise awareness and funds for research into childhood brain cancer – the leading cause of disease-related death in Australian children.
Jacob is dedicating his efforts to the children and families, now and in the future, who are battling this devastating diagnosis.
“I want to show families and children diagnosed with brain cancer that they’re not alone. There are people out there working hard to make things better for them. Every kilometre I run is a promise that we’re pushing forward for better treatments and brighter futures,” said Jacob.
The Big Run for Little Brains involves a marathon (42.2km) every day in September, Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Along the 1,266km journey, Jacob will connect with local groups, including schools, to spread awareness and inspire action.
Funds raised will directly support the Brain Tumour Research team at The Kids Research Institute Australia. With current treatments largely unchanged for decades, new and innovative options are urgently needed. While some children survive, the price of survival is often severe long-term side effects that impact quality of life.
This is the reality for Jade Reynolds and her son Reid Nichols, who was diagnosed with stage 4 glioblastoma at just six-months-old.
“This tumour was so big, taking up nearly half of his brain, which meant that when it was removed some of his brain tissue then died and he was left with only half a viable brain,” Ms Reynolds said.
Now five-years-old, Reid has beaten some unimaginable odds - though there are lasting effects of his cancer and treatment.
“Reid’s life today consists of daily therapy and rehab, lots of anti-seizure medications, feeding tubes, epilepsy devices, partial blindness, and he is wheelchair bound.”
Jacob’s run hopes to change this reality for children like Reid by raising crucial funds for research that will lead to more effective and less toxic treatments for childhood brain cancer.
The community can play a vital role by sharing Jacob’s story, making a donation to support research, or cheering him on as he runs through Perth’s suburbs.
To learn more and donate, visit the Big Run for Little Brains fundraising page.