Sam Boulting, a mother from St Austell in Cornwall, is gearing up to run a marathon on 21 April to honor the memory of her late friend Simon Penwright, who passed away from brain cancer last November. The 26.2-mile race will raise funds for Brain Tumour Research, a cause close to Sam’s heart. Despite only taking up running last year, Sam has embraced the sport as a way to channel her energy and cope with the loss of Simon. Her determination to run the marathon stems from a desire to support Simon’s family and raise awareness for a disease that often receives less research funding compared to other forms of cancer.
When Sam informed Simon about her decision to participate in the marathon, he responded with his characteristic humor, asking if she had signed up while under the influence of alcohol. Simon’s larger-than-life personality and his ability to bring laughter to any situation have left a massive hole in the lives of those who knew and loved him. Married to Sam’s close friend Emily, Simon was a beloved figure who left behind a blended family of four daughters.
Before Simon’s passing, his diagnosis galvanized him, Emily, and their friends to raise over £40,000 for Brain Tumour Research. Sam, Emily, and their friend Laura Thompson, from Bedfordshire, have teamed up once again to participate in the marathon, all in support of the same charity. Sam admits that she initially didn’t know much about brain tumors, but witnessing the continued fight of Simon’s family inspired her to take action. Motivated by their resilience, she is determined to make a difference for all families devastated by this deadly disease.
Sam has been training diligently for the marathon, running four days a week and dedicating two days to strength training. Her training journey hasn’t been without obstacles, as injuries and a severe chest infection have caused setbacks along the way. However, she remains determined to persevere and complete the race. Sam is not alone in her commitment; numerous other individuals whose lives have been touched by brain tumors are running alongside her, each carrying their own personal reasons for participating.
One in three people knows someone affected by a brain tumor, making Simon’s story sadly common. Brain tumors claim the lives of more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer. Despite this, only 1% of the national expenditure on cancer research has been allocated to studying brain tumors since 2002. Brain Tumour Research aims to change this by raising awareness and funds to improve treatment options and ultimately find a cure.
Carol Robertson, national events manager for Brain Tumour Research, expressed gratitude for Sam’s support and commended her efforts to raise awareness for such an important cause. The organization will be present to cheer Sam on as she crosses the finish line in April. By working together, organizations like Brain Tumour Research and individuals like Sam hope to bring about real change in the field of brain tumor research.
Sam Boulting’s commitment to running this marathon in memory of her dear friend serves as a testament to the power of personal dedication and the desire to honor loved ones lost too soon. As Sam continues her training and fundraising journey, she carries with her the hopes and dreams of families affected by brain tumors everywhere.
