A journey of endurance across Aotearoa New Zealand.
25 Days, 25 Ultra-marathons for brain cancer research.
My goal is to raise NZ$100k for brain cancer research.
Our Charity Partner
Documentary Team
Our Supporting Sponsors
THE CHALLENGE
In January 2027, I will run 25 consecutive ultra-marathons down New Zealand’s North Island to raise awareness and funding for brain cancer research. Along the way, I’ll be sharing kōrero with patients, whānau, caregivers, researchers, and advocates whose lives have been impacted by this devastating disease.
A documentary is being made and filming has started. It will follow my journey and capture the intensely physical challenge of running more than 1,300 kilometres in 25 days, whilst exploring deeply human stories of resilience, determination, hope, and courage that define the brain cancer community of Aotearoa every single day. All proceeds go towards brain cancer research.
This run will push me to the edge of my physical and emotional limits. Battling fatigue, injury, weather, and the relentless demands of consecutive ultra-marathons.
But this is about far more than running. This is a story about people. It is a story about about the kiwi community coming together, about bravery and resilience in the face of adversity, and about finding hope when the odds seem overwhelming. It is a story that celebrates the extraordinary resilience of ordinary New Zealanders and shines a light on an aggressive disease that urgently needs greater awareness, support, and research funding.
Welcome to my journey.
I’m Sam Saunt-Lord. I’m 20 years old and from Wellington. I’m studying at the University of Auckland, and I love running.
Inspired by my cousin Georgie’s diagnosis of Glioblastoma, the most aggressive and incurable brain cancer and her prognosis of 12-18 months, I am running to raise money for the first National Brain Tumour Registry here in Aotearoa. This world leading database registry will accelerate medical research in Aotearoa, create better outcomes for New Zealanders, and contribute to global research.
I’m looking for sponsors to support my journey. If this speaks to you and your organisation’s values and you’d love to support this incredible story, please reach out to us. We would love to meet you.
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@sams_bigbrainrun
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Brain tumours can affect anyone, of any ethnicity, and at any age. The causes of most brain tumours are unknown so prevention and screening are not possible.
Brain Tumour Support NZ
“Brain tumours kill more children and adults under the age of 40 than any other cancer.”
Brain Tumour Research, UK
Why this matters
Brain cancer affects thousands of individuals and families, yet research funding and public awareness remain critically limited. This project exists to raise awareness, support research, create meaningful conversations, honour survivors and families, and build hope through community and storytelling. Every dollar raised goes toward brain cancer research.
Where will your donation go?
Every dollar donated will go towards towards establishing New Zealand’s first dedicated and comprehensive National Brain Tumour Registry to improve care, research, and treatment in NZ Aotearoa.
The registry is being developed by the New Zealand Aotearoa Neuro-Oncology Society (NANOS), which is an incorporated national society comprising of over 80 members, including clinicians, researchers, and patient support community groups. NANOS is an integrated member of the Asian Society of Neuro-Oncology, which provides access to international collaborations and resources.
NANOS is chaired by:
Dr. Thomas Park, Co-Chair, NANOS
Dr Thomas Park is a neuroscientist specialising in brain tumour research. His team at the Centre for Brain Research, University of Auckland, investigates brain tumour biology using brain tumour tissues and cells donated from neurosurgery.
Dr. Catherine Han, Co-Chair, NANOS
Dr Catherine Han is a New Zealand-trained medical oncologist specialising in neuro-oncology, gastrointestinal, breast, head and neck cancers, and ocular melanoma. As co-chair (clinical) and treasurer of NANOS, she played a pivotal role in its establishment in 2023.
“Brain cancer is the biggest cancer killer of children in New Zealand, being responsible for 42% of all childhood cancer deaths.”
Brain Tumour Support New Zealand