The Brain Charity

In 2025, Stuart will take on a Manchester 62-mile charity bike ride on the 31st August, in support of The Brain Charity, a cause that resonates deeply with his personal story. He will be doing this in memory of many people whom he has lost over the years due to a number of neurological conditions. 

Why The Brain Charity? 

Stuart’s decision to support The Brain Charity wasn’t random—it was rooted in heartbreak. 

In just a few short years, brain-related conditions have profoundly impacted those closest to him. His mother-in-law passed away suddenly from a brain aneurysm just over three years ago. One minute, she was chatting away at home; thirty minutes later, she was gone.

Stuart said:

“It was a huge shock. There were no signs. She was such a big part of our lives—especially my wife’s. It left a hole that’s still very real.”

Stuart’s uncle also passed away when he was younger from a brain aneurysm and he lost his own mother to Motor Neurone Disease. And just last year, a close friend he met through his football team died following a long battle with a brain tumour.

He also told us: 

“He was so full of life—outgoing and brought so much energy to everyone around him. Watching him change… watching him fade… was devastating. By the end, he wasn’t the same person. That stuck with me.”

Finding a way forward—through the saddle

Stuart was a lifelong football and rugby player, but injuries and wear and tear forced him to slow down. Running was no longer an option, but cycling offered a new path forward. 

“I went from barely doing 30 minutes on a gym bike to completing a 60-mile ride. Cycling gave me a sense of purpose—and a way to give back.” 

He discovered The Brain Charity while researching organisations that supported people with brain conditions. Its local roots, holistic approach, and personal touch sealed the deal. 

“From the first email, I just had a good feeling. I spoke with the team and thought, ‘This is the one.’ It’s local, it’s personal, and they truly get it.” 

Preparing for the ride 

The Manchester 62-mile charity bike ride is no small feat. Stuart’s training began in winter, gradually building from three light sessions a week to more intense training four days a week—including one long outdoor ride on weekends. 

He explained:

“I’m up to about 35 miles now. I’ll do 45-50 miles the weekend before the event to ensure I’m ready.”

Last year, Stuart admits he learned a lot the hard way. 

“I overpacked—too much water, too many snacks. It weighed me down, This year, I’ve got a proper road bike, better nutrition, and I know how to pace myself.” 

His current goal? Beat last year’s pace, but more importantly, do it with purpose. 

Looking ahead 

Stuart’s eyes are already on the future. 

“My goal is to do a 100-mile challenge next year. I want to keep fundraising every time I ride. My current target for this challenge is £1000 but who knows how big things can get with each new challenge I take on.”

He may not know what the next event will be, but one thing is clear: cycling has become more than a hobby. It’s a lifeline—a way to honour the people he’s lost and help others still fighting. 

A ride for more than just miles 

Stuart knows firsthand how sudden, invisible, and devastating brain-related conditions can be. But through his training, fundraising, and growing awareness efforts, he’s transformed grief into action. 

“Every mile is for someone I love. If I can raise awareness and a bit of money along the way, that’s what matters most.” 

Please support Stuart’s journey by donating to his fundraising page and helping him raise vital funds for The Brain Charity.