This weekend, the Spiers family and their friends will take on a remarkable challenge in memory of Issy Spiers, who died in January aged 13 following a four-year illness with a brain tumour.
Issy's parents Matt and Nicki Spiers, together with their son Jamie and 19 other family members and friends, will walk the full 100km South Coast Ultra Challenge route from Eastbourne to Arundel on 5 and 6 September.
The route follows the South Downs Way and Sussex coastline, passing Beachy Head, the Seven Sisters, Brighton and Devil’s Dyke before reaching Arundel.
Issy was a Brighton College pupil who touched the lives of many people during her illness. Her family describe her as remarkable and an inspiration for the way she continued to enjoy life despite the challenges she faced.
The walk is raising funds for The Brain Tumour Charity, supporting research into better diagnosis, treatments and cures, as well as support for families affected by brain tumours.
The family’s JustGiving campaign has already raised more than £35,000, with donations continuing ahead of the challenge.
Matt said the team will draw strength from Issy when the walk becomes difficult: “Compared to what she went through, walking 100km is nothing.”
On behalf of the Brighton College community, we wish all involved a safe journey and the best of luck. We will be thinking of you. This weekend’s challenge is another way for Issy's family and friends to honour her life while helping give greater hope to others affected by brain tumours.
If you would like to donate in support of their 100km challenge, the link to Nicki's JustGiving page can be found here.