A DEVOTED Shirley dad who was diagnosed with a brain tumour last year is preparing to take on the national three peaks in 24 hours.
Marcus Elwell said his epic trekking challenge has been inspired by his children Millie who is 12, Noah, 10 and Gracie, seven who he credits as his motivation since he was diagnosed with a low-grade haemangioblastoma.
On October 28 he, along with five friends, Paul Witham, Scott Harrison, Stuart Piers, Richard Apps and David Sidley will set off to climb Ben Nevis in Scotland, Scafell Pike in England and Snowdon in Wales, ascending more than 3,408 metres, and travelling a combined distance of around 338 miles to climb the iconic peaks within 24 hours.
The Brain Tumour Research ambassador is hoping to raise £5,480 for which is the equivalent cost of two days of research at one of the charity’s four Centres of Excellence.
The 41-year-old said: “My children are the reason I get up in the morning and since I was diagnosed with a brain tumour, being their dad has given me the strength to fight this disease.”
In May 2021 after suffering with exhaustion and personality changes Marcus had an MRI scan which showed a mass on his brain.
Within 48 hours of surgery at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham to remove the whole tumour he was home from hospital and needed no further treatment.
His latest scan in August showed no growth.
He added: “My kids are pleased to have their dad back and they want to hang off my arm and get on my shoulders – if I can do those things they know I am OK and it’s like a comfort blanket for them.”
Since his operation last year, Marcus, who used to play rugby for Woodrush has been working with his local CrossFit Unit C gym in Solihull to regain his fitness which has formed part of his training to climb the national three peaks.
A fortnight before his challenge, Marcus will compete in Hyrox in Birmingham, which will see the brain tumour patient take on eight different physical activities within the fastest time, putting his mind and body to the test.
Marcus said: “My story is a positive one, but I know that other people aren’t as fortunate.
“My friends have been a huge support and they were excited when I mentioned the challenge to them, they’re like my family. I feel like I am at a place in my life where I am ready for the challenge and my view is go hard or go home.”
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