A BRAIN tumour survivor from Ellesmere Port wants to "inspire others facing similar challenges" to her by taking on a marathon.

Sara Crosland, 48, was diagnosed with a rare Acoustic Neuroma brain tumour – also referred to as a Vestibular Schwannoma – in 2018.

Since receiving the all clear, Sara has needed physio to relearn to balance and walk and also suffers with profound hearing loss, dizziness, nausea, tinnitus, vision problems, and facial palsy, along with chronic fatigue.

Sara, along with her good friend and fellow brain tumour survivor, Andrew Read, from Clitheroe, will be taking part in the Chester Marathon tomorrow (Sunday, October 7).

In March, Sara completed a run from Land’s End to John O’Groats, covering the entire length of the UK.

The Beyond Recovery Project

Now her and Andrew are joining forces to raise funds for The Beyond Recovery Project, a non-profit organisation set up by Sara herself.

This project aims to support physical and mental wellbeing for brain tumour survivors.

Speaking to the Globe, she said: "Treatment is finished, follow-up appointments and contact with medical professionals become few and far between, yet the life-changing effects of a brain tumour diagnosis are often still there.

"Years later, navigating a new normal can still be a real challenge and not without its problems."

The Beyond Recovery Project is there to promote physical and mental health and wellbeing to individuals following treatment for brain tumours, by empowering them to overcome barriers to their recovery.

They aim to deliver various activities, driven by the needs of the individuals and families they work with. 

The Beyond Recovery Project is about "bringing together others on the same or similar journey, creating a ‘safe’ space and sense of community where survivors can share experiences and learn how to push beyond the physical and psychological barriers they now face."

Sara added: "This marathon will serve as a testament to mine and Andrew’s resilience and determination.

"Our participation not only showcases our personal triumph over adversity but is also an inspiration to others facing similar challenges."

Following this, in two weeks, they will embark on a run, covering around 100 miles from coast to coast across the UK, along the Hadrian’s Wall trail.