Mandy Calaz, from Devizes, Wiltshire, is passionately championing brain tumour research following the tragic loss of her husband, Mark, to a glioblastoma—a devastating brain tumour that claims thousands of lives annually. Their story is now at the heart of Brain Tumour Research’s Christmas appeal, aimed at raising awareness and much-needed funding for this often-overlooked disease.
Mark was only 52 when he experienced a sudden seizure in November 2019 and was diagnosed with glioblastoma, a highly aggressive brain cancer. Given just 18 months to live, the couple—united by their involvement in the Army Cadet Force and a love for the outdoors—dedicated themselves to campaigning and fundraising through their group M & M Adventures.
Mandy recalls the shock of discovering that brain tumours claim more lives under age 40 than any other cancer but have received a mere 1% of the UK’s national cancer research funding since 2002. “In this day and age, you expect treatments and hope for a cure. Yet brain tumour research remains critically underfunded,” she said.
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In a courageous attempt to extend his life, Mark underwent a craniotomy just days before Christmas 2019, followed by shortened radiotherapy and chemotherapy—treatments complicated by liver issues and aggressive tumour progression. As Mark’s health declined, the couple, known for their love of Christmas, began celebrating the holiday monthly, creating joyful, festive moments for themselves and their community amid the challenges.
Mark passed away on July 4, 2021, leaving Mandy with cherished memories but also a steadfast mission. “Christmas is a difficult time without Mark,” she shared. “But by supporting brain tumour research, we can bring hope to patients and families facing this cruel disease.”
Letty Greenfield, Community Development Manager at Brain Tumour Research, acknowledged Mandy’s vital role in the campaign. “Mandy’s dedication honors Mark’s legacy and highlights the urgent need for funding. Every donation brings us closer to kinder treatments and, ultimately, a cure.”
Brain Tumour Research calls on the government and major cancer charities to increase annual funding to £35 million—matching investments made in cancers like breast cancer and leukaemia.
This Christmas, your support can help transform the future of brain tumour patients. To donate, visit www.braintumourresearch.org/pages/give-hope-this-christmas.