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A single runner’s stand against brain cancer.
When motivation is strong, the efforts of a single person can lead to remarkable results. Mrs Bhavishya Gem tells us how she completed a half marathon to honor a late friend and raise funds in support of brain cancer research. She collected €3,300 and donated the sum to the Luxembourg Institute of Health (LIH)’s NORLUX Neuro Oncology laboratory, in support of its research efforts to advance treatment options for malignant brain tumors.
Mrs Gem, could you tell us a few words about how you grew the idea of running a half-marathon? Are you a regular runner? Where did you run the marathon?
My goal for 2025 was to honor my friend and complete a challenge, which is where the idea of running a half marathon grew. Up until then, the longest distance I’d ever run was 10km, so the thought of pushing myself further felt both intimidating and exciting. I’m not a hardcore or long-time runner, but I do enjoy exercise, which meant that the goal felt achievable if I committed to the training. I eventually signed up for a half marathon in Manchester, which became a big turning point – it showed me that I could handle longer distances, and it really built my confidence.
Did you already know about the LIH and about the NORLUX Neuro Oncology laboratory?
I had heard of the LIH before, but I didn’t properly know much about it. When I started looking into whom I could fundraise for, a few general charities came up in my research. But after speaking with a family friend, she mentioned the NORLUX group and explained that it might be of particular interest to me. I was especially drawn to support a group focused on brain tumour research, as it felt like the donations could have a more direct and meaningful impact.
How did you publicize the event and have so many people following your cause?
To publicise the event, I set up a GoFundMe page and shared my Strava account with those who were interested. With social media, I was able to share the fundraising page. From there, it spread quite naturally. The number of people who chose to donate really showed just how many lives had been touched by my late friend, it also highlighted how much people cared about this cause. The amount we were able to raise also wouldn’t have been possible without the help of my family friend, who played a huge role in sharing the fundraiser and encouraging others to support it.
What message would you like to leave to people who wish to start a similar initiative?
If you have an idea, go for it – what’s the worst that can happen? Even if you don’t get a huge number of donations, every contribution, big or small, can make a genuinely positive impact. It’s also incredibly rewarding to know that your efforts can support research groups and help them move their work forward. On a personal level, I think everyone should complete a distance challenge at least once in their life. The atmosphere is amazing, and the feeling of crossing the finish line is truly unforgettable. Initiatives like this are meaningful not only for the cause you support, but also for what you learn about yourself throughout the journey.
Thank you very much Bhavishya for your incredible achievement and your generosity!
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