York NHS worker Piotr Pacych is preparing to go the distance for charity by taking on his first half-marathon for a cause close to his heart.
Personal assistant Piotr is training hard ahead of the Robin Hood Half-Marathon on 27 September, where he will run in aid of Brain Tumour Research.
The 26-year-old was inspired to support the charity following a health scare in 2024, when he was diagnosed with a brain cavernoma – a rare neurological condition.
“When I was first told of the diagnosis, I was frightened. But I was lucky. Although I had symptoms like headaches, the condition did not threaten my life,” he said.
“While I was fortunate, many people diagnosed with brain tumours or cancer are not. Some face a difficult battle to prolong their lives, and that’s why this cause means so much to me.”
Stepping up to fundraising challenge
Piotr, who works in the research and development team at our Trust, is determined to turn his personal challenge into something positive by raising money to support future research.
As a further show of solidarity with those affected by brain tumours, Piotr has shaved his head and pledges to “stay bald” until he crosses the finish line on race day.
He said: “I want to raise funds to support research that could bring hope to people who are less fortunate than me. Shaving my head is my way of showing solidarity.
“Brain tumours kill more people under 40 than any other cancer, yet historically only a small proportion of national cancer research funding has been allocated to this disease.
“Breakthrough treatments and advances in diagnosis could improve outcomes and help people live longer, fuller lives – which is why I’m running for such a good cause.”
Training hard to raise vital funds
Piotr, from York, started training in earnest for the Robin Hood Half Marathon in May – beginning with short jogging and walking stints and gradually increasing his fitness.
After battling through the pain of shin splints, he is now running at least 10km twice a week and is also working out and competing in smaller races to prepare for the big day.
“I’ve never really been much of a runner, but I really enjoyed taking part in our Trust’s TEWV 10k last year, and it kind of inspired me to do more,” said Piotr.
“In August I completed the Jane Tomlinson 10k Run for All in York, in a time of 58 minutes, which I was pleased with. It was hot but I kept a steady pace, which was good training.
“I’ve never actually run a full half-marathon before, but I’m determined to get across the finish line and raise as much as I can for a charity which helps so many people.”
Funding research to find hope
Brain Tumour Research is a leading national charity dedicated to finding a cure for all types of brain tumours.
The organisation funds scientific research and supports a network of Centres of Excellence across the UK.
Piotr is hoping colleagues, friends and family will rally to support his fundraising efforts and added:
“Every donation, no matter how small, will help fund vital research and bring us closer to better treatments and, ultimately, a cure.
“Together, we can support meaningful research and help create hope for people and families affected by brain tumours.”
- Anyone wishing to support Piotr’s fundraising challenge can donate via his Brain Tumour Research fundraising page.
