A BROMSGROVE man decided to lace up his gloves and take part in a charity boxing match after being inspired by a close friend living with a brain tumour.
Simon Hollis, 34, raised more than £1,300 for Brain Tumour Research charity during his eight-week training camp.
The white-collar boxing event was held at Perdiswell Leisure Centre in front of hundreds of people.
Simon said: “My friend Katie Smith was diagnosed with Oligoastrocytoma three years ago – and lives with the knowledge she may not be here to see her 40th birthday.
“Despite going through surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy, she remains a positive person.”
Simon, amazed by Katie’s strength, said he also wanted to raise awareness that brain tumours could affect anyone at any age.
“The fact I know three people affected by this devastating disease just goes to show how indiscriminate brain tumours are.”
Before he stepped into the ring Simon was trained by professional boxers to get him fit for the challenge.
He said he had definitely seen an improvement in his fitness levels after ditching alcohol and working out several days each week.
Brain Tumour Research funds sustainable research at dedicated Research Centres of Excellence in the UK.
Carrie Bater, the community fund-raising manager at Brain Tumour Research in the Midlands, said: “We are extremely grateful for Simon’s support and congratulate him in completing his boxing challenge.”
He added he hoped people would be touched by Katie’s story and give what they can to help during festive season.
“Together we will find a cure.”
Visit www.braintumourresearch.org/our-christmas-wish/katie-smith to help Katie’s festive wish come true.
