Brain Tumour Awareness Month in March 2011 was a fantastic opportunity for individuals and organisations across the UK to raise awareness and help everyone affected by a brain tumour.

We updated this selection of stories throughout the month, to keep you up to date with our activities and the amazing efforts of our supporters and fundraisers.

Mass Lobby of Parliament, March 2011

Brain Tumour UK, in partnership with Brain Tumour Research, the International Brain Tumour Alliance and the Samantha Dickson Brain Tumour Trust organised a 'Mass Lobby' on 29 March 2011 at the House of Commons to rally support from MPs for the Manifesto for everyone affected by a brain tumour, and in particular ensure the speedy implementation of the Improving Outcomes Guidance for Brain and CNS Tumours 2006.

We were joined by patients, carers, friends and family, charities, brain tumour professionals and scientists, all asking their MP to support the manifesto and to back our call for earlier diagnosis; better care and treatment; and a significant increase in research funding.

To get involved in the democratic process, email us for more information or call 01494 549 180. 

Brain Tumour UK launches support services in Scotland to meet 25% increase in patients

The number of people diagnosed with a brain tumour in Scotland is expected to increase by 25% between 2000 and 2020, as the population ages.

In Brain Tumour Awareness Month on 2 March, Brain Tumour UK – in partnership with an advisory group of experts – launched a range of innovative support services to help meet the growing needs of people across Scotland's vast geographical area. Find out more here.

Brain Tumour UK backs accurate data collection

Brain Tumour UK Chief Executive Jenny Baker briefed healthcare professionals and the National Cancer Intelligence Network (NCIN) during Brain Tumour Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of gathering accurate data on primary and secondary brain tumours.

Mrs Baker was one of the speakers at the NCIN: Central Nervous System Clinical Leads Workshop in London on 10 March 2011, which reviewed and progressed the National Brain and CNS (Central Nervous System) Tumour Registry (NBTR) for England.

Mrs Baker emphasised that patient care can only be planned and delivered effectively if an accurate picture exists of how many people are affected. Brain Tumour UK launched a campaign to record all brain tumours during Brain Tumour Awareness Month 2009, and welcomes the progress being made in England. Find out more.

Actor in ITV drama Monroe runs Virgin London Marathon for Brain Tumour UK

Luke Allen-Gale, 25, stars in Monroe, ITV’s latest medical drama which launched during Brain Tumour Awareness Month on 10 March. The actor will run the Virgin London Marathon for Brain Tumour UK in tribute to his Nan who suffered from the condition. Find out more.

Silverstone Half Marathon

30 fabulous fundraisers pounded round the Silverstone circuit to celebrate Brain Tumour Awareness Month on 6 March. Read some of their inspiring stories!

• Fulham medical student to run half marathon for Brain Tumour UK
• Hertfordshire brain tumour patient to run half marathon for Brain Tumour UK
• London dad to run half marathon in memory of his friend for Brain Tumour UK
• Walsall runner to take on half marathon for Brain Tumour UK in memory of his friend
• Northamptonshire mum runs half marathon for Brain Tumour UK
• Luton runner takes on half marathon for Brain Tumour UK in memory of his dad
• Swindon man to run half marathon for Brain Tumour UK in memory of his mother-in-law
• Essex woman to run half marathon in memory of her future father-in-law for Brain Tumour UK

Taking the plunge for Brain Tumour UK

Thrill-seekers jumped from a plane at 10,000 feet on 26 March, fundraising and raising awareness for Brain Tumour UK with an exciting skydive.

• Kathryn takes 10000 ft plunge for Brain Tumour UK in memory of her dad
• Leeds brain tumour patient takes 10000 ft plunge for Brain Tumour UK
• Sister of brain tumour patient takes 10000 ft plunge for Brain Tumour UK