A Buckinghamshire child who is suffering from brain cancer has inspired a Formula One team to help increase funds that could prove vital for future research.
Jude Upton, from Milton Keynes, was diagnosed with a brain tumour, later identified as a grade 4 medulloblastoma, following a trip to Specsavers in Silbury Arcade on his eighth birthday in March 2020.
The 11-year-old had been suffering from a loss of balance, sickness in the mornings, constant headaches, tiredness, a loss of appetite, and changes in his personality, including becoming more introverted and not wanting to play football.
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Following his diagnosis, the youngster underwent a craniotomy followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy and enjoyed months of stable scans before finding out his cancer had returned last year.
He is now undergoing further chemotherapy and is due to have his next scan at the beginning of June.
His story has led the Aston Martin Aramco Cognizant Formula One team to donate an F1 race suit, signed by racing driver Lance Stroll, with the item coming with a certificate of authenticity.
The piece of memorabilia is currently available to purchase with the money raised going to Brain Tumour Research.
Jude’s father, Danny, said: “Jude’s doing really well, considering.
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“He’s eating better and is in school more regularly.
“Still, I find it hard to plan too far ahead, especially with Jude living with the effects of his treatment.
“His balance still isn’t good, his overall learning is poor compared to other children his age, he’s got cataracts and his growth has also been affected.
“It’s not easy but every day he’s doing well is another good day.”
Charlie Allsebrook, community development manager for Brain Tumour Research, added: “Jude’s story is a stark reminder of just how indiscriminate brain tumours are.
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“They kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer yet just one per cent of the national spend on cancer research has been allocated to the disease since records began in 2002.
“We’re determined to change this.”
To make a bid for the F1 suit, go to https://app.galabid.com/lancestrollracesuit.
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