Newly wed raising funds for charity after wife's brain tumour diagnosis

Simon Trimble, took on five separate athletic events to raise funds for Brainwaves NI and Friends of the Cancer Centre.

He was spurred into action after his wife Lynsey (33) was diagnosed with a brain tumour following an eye test.

“We got married at Christmas 2014, and Lynsey was diagnosed with a brain tumour in October 2015,” Simon said.

“She’s an optician and they were testing out some of the equipment at work; that’s when it was discovered,” he said.

“It was a huge shock for us.”

Following a number of scans confirming the diagnosis, Lynsey immediately underwent brain surgery.

She was able to return home to recover four days later, with an ongoing treatment programme of radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

“Lynsey is a strong person and is doing very well with the treatment, while staying active at home and in the gym,” added Simon, 32.

“She received first class care and treatment in Antrim Area Hospital, the Royal Victoria Neurosurgery Ward, the Cancer Centre at Belfast City Hospital, along with the Bridgewater Suite at Belfast City.

“During our time in these places, it became very apparent to us how much help and assistance charities provide to cancer sufferers, their family and friends.

“In particular the ones we benefitted from, but obviously not limited to are MacMillan, NI Hospice, 1 in 3 Cancer Support; Friends of the Cancer Centre and Brainwaves NI.”

In an effort to show his appreciation for the organisations’ help and support, Simon took part in a number of events in recent months, including the Lisburn Half Marathon, the Belfast Marathon Relay, the Forest Fitness ‘Mud Mayhem’ obstacle course outside Carrick, the Castleward 10k, and the Titanic Quarter 10k.

“Obviously all charities benefit greatly from donations, but I am keen to fundraise for Friends of the Cancer Centre, who fund life-saving and life-changing projects that make real and lasting differences to the lives of so many local people affected by cancer, giving clinical care, patient comfort and research in addition to what is provided by the Health Service,” said Simon.

The second charity to benefit from Simon’s fundraising efforts is the Whitehead-based Brainwaves NI, which provides information and support to all those affected by a brain tumour.

Over £2000 has already been raised for both organisations.

To donate to either charity, visit Simon’s JustGiving page.