EARLIER in August, Neurocare held their annual charity golf day – sponsored by IFM insurance. The competition was won by Mark Bingham, who has been a long term supporter of Neurocare, and his team.

But Mark, who was joined in his team by his dad, Kevin, brother, Lee, and step-brother, Dean Hopkinson, is not stopping there. In September, he is running two half marathons in two weeks: the Great North Run and the Sheffield Half Marathon.

All of this is in memory of his beloved wife, Fiona who passed away in 2017 aged just 33 following a short battle against an aggressive brain tumour.

Mark has entered Neurocare’s golf day for the past four years, but this was his first win. On top of this, ever since Fiona’s sad passing, Mark has taken part in a number of fundraising challenges including Neurocare’s flagship event ‘Headstart’ and the Big Half Marathon in London.

This is all to raise awareness and raise funds for Neurocare and help to support neurology services in Sheffield. Fiona was only diagnosed with a brain tumour following a routine eye test.

Speaking after the golf day, Mark said: “The golf day was great fun and it is fantastic to have won it, but most importantly, events like that play a huge part in supporting charities like Neurocare and it was amazing to see so many people coming together.

“All of the fundraising I have done, and the two half marathons that I am doing in September are all because of Fiona.  Fi was one of the kindest most caring people you could ever want to meet. She gave her time to anyone that needed it and thinking of her whilst I take on the challenges will help to get me through. 

“Fiona fundraised for Neurocare as she knew the importance of the work they do, and wanted to thank staff for the care both of us received while undergoing treatment.. I want to carry on her legacy and continue to raise funds – it will always be a charity close to my heart.”

Mark is raising funds on Virgin Money. If you want to support this powerful cause, please visit: https://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/fundraiser-display/showROFundraiserPage?userUrl=MarkBingham6&pageUrl=1

Clare Lambert, Neurocare Fundraiser said: "Mark and his family are some of our most treasured and dedicated supporters and we were all so happy to see him and his team win the golf day.

“Mark’s story is incredibly powerful but everything that he has done to support neurology staff and patients since Fiona sadly passed away is just overwhelming. So, if you can support Mark’s efforts, it will make a huge difference.

“And if Mark’s story has motivated you to take on your own fundraising challenge, please do contact [email protected] and we will be happy to help.”