Brain Buddies A dedicated group of fundraisers known as the Brain Buddies have raised an incredible £52,929 to support people affected by cancer and brain tumours, following a year of inspiring challenges and overwhelming community support. Led by Louise Smith, lead cancer nurse at ESNEFT, and Helen Bunn, brain tumour clinical nurse specialist, the group set out in 2025 with an ambitious mission to raise £25,000 to be shared between the Cancer Wellbeing Fund at Colchester & Ipswich Hospitals Charity and The Brain Tumour Charity. In January 2024, Louise Smith’s husband, Dr Simon Smith, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, a life-changing moment for their family. Motivated by this deeply personal connection to brain cancer, Louise and Helen brought together friends, family and colleagues to support the cause, quickly building momentum and exceeding all expectations. Throughout the year, the Brain Buddies took on a series of fundraising challenges, including the Brighton Half Marathon, bake sales and even a skydive, each one helping to raise both vital funds and awareness. Their fundraising journey came to a spectacular close on Friday 17 April, with a Spring Charity Ball at Venue 16, where supporters gathered for an evening of celebration, reflection and generosity. The funds raised will help provide counselling, complementary therapies, wellbeing activities and support services for patients and families navigating a cancer diagnosis, while also contributing towards vital brain tumour research and support. Helen said: “I am incredibly proud of what Louise and I have achieved over the last year, knowing the positive impact it will have for all our patients is what makes all the effort and hard work worth it.” Louise added: “Helen and I are so proud to have exceeded the fundraising goal we set ourselves last February for the Cancer Wellbeing Fund and The Brain Tumour Charity. We both know just how important these two charities are in the support they offer to people affected by a brain tumour, and how vital research is in discovering new treatments and giving those affected more options. “For my family and I, it has given us a positive focus during a difficult time. It has been such a privilege to undertake this challenge and we have had wonderful support from friends and colleagues along the way, thank you to each and every one of you. “However, I don’t know if I ever want to bake another sausage roll again!” The Spring Charity Ball provided a fitting finale to the year, bringing together supporters for an evening filled with warmth, celebration and purpose, whilst bringing their total raised to an outstanding £29,309.50 for the Cancer Wellbeing Fund. The charity would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who supported the Brain Buddies throughout their fundraising journey, from those who donated and attended events, to everyone who shared, and sponsored this cause. Manage Cookie Preferences