A marathon runner who was left unable to walk after surgeons pulled a 20-year-old golf-ball-sized tumour from his brain has now raised a staggering £100,000 for charity.
George Wade has achieved the seemingly impossible after doctors uncovered two enormous tumours lurking inside his skull.
The 42-year-old from Thirsk, North Yorkshire, was diagnosed with a grade four astrocytoma on the right side of his brain – the size of a tennis ball – with another golf-ball-sized growth nestled in the middle.
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Both had reportedly been growing for two decades, only now beginning to press dangerously on his brain.
Doctors ordered a scan after George developed light sensitivity, stroke-like symptoms and weakness down his left side.
He then underwent an agonising eight-hour operation at UCL Hospital in London, where surgeons removed the larger tumour.
George was left unable to walk or even open his left hand.
Refusing to be beaten, the seasoned marathon runner stunned medics by getting back on his feet just two days later.
Within a month – helped by dedicated physios – he was running again.
Then, in April, exactly a year after his symptoms first appeared, George shocked the world by running a personal best at the London Marathon, clocking an incredible three hours 16 minutes, as reported by Need To Know.
The blistering run raised £41,000 for The National Brain Appeal and The Brain Tumour Charity.
Now, with Christmas looming, George is closing in on his huge £100,000 fundraising goal, bolstered by support from former PM Rishi Sunak.
Events including The Gavel Trail & Auction, organised by The Bidpath Foundation, have brought in an extra £50,000, with a specially commissioned gavel-and-block sculpture selling for £10,000.
George Wade said: “That was particularly satisfying as it had been created by the artist Jonathan Wade, whose own wife has had brain tumours.
“In fact we had at least four people at the auction whose lives had been directly touched by having someone close who had had a brain tumour.
“I want to thank everyone who supported me and everyone else who made this happen.
“It’s been an incredible experience and the journey continues.”
David Brindley, Bidpath CEO, said: “We focus on organisations whose vital work is often overlooked, ensuring they have the resources to make a meaningful impact.
“The Gavel Art Trail & Auction has shown the extraordinary power of creativity and community.
“Thanks to the generosity of our artists, partners, bidders, and sponsors, we are proud to have raised £41,200 in support of three remarkable charities.
“These funds will help make a meaningful difference to families and individuals facing some of life’s toughest challenges.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who played a part in bringing this inspiring event to life.”
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