Theo’s Inspiring ‘Theo-athon’ Raises Vital Funds for Cavernoma Alliance UK

22nd January 2025

A remarkable fundraising event, the “Theo-athon,” has captured the hearts of many, as 11-year-old Theo and his family embark on a challenging journey to raise awareness and funds for Cavernoma Alliance UK. This courageous effort follows Theo’s harrowing experience with a rare and life-threatening condition known as cavernoma, which caused life-altering complications and required extensive surgery and rehabilitation.

Theo’s journey began in May 2024, just after his 11th birthday, when he was rushed to hospital with severe headaches, vomiting, and confusion. Doctors later diagnosed him with a cavernoma — a rare malformation of blood vessels in his brain. After three life-saving surgeries, Theo faced a lengthy recovery, relearning basic skills like walking and feeding himself. Although he continues to live with permanent effects from the condition, his determination to push forward has inspired his family and many others.

The Theo-athon, set to take place in 2025, will see Theo and his family take on a series of physical challenges to raise funds for Cavernoma Alliance UK. The event will include walking, swimming, and wheelchair challenges. Despite facing mobility issues, Theo is determined to complete part of the event with the support of his family.

His mother explains: “Theo wanted to raise money for the charity and increase awareness of cavernomas. Before his illness, we had never even heard of this condition. We wanted to find a way to turn this difficult situation into something positive, and the Theo-athon is a way for Theo to inspire others while supporting a cause close to our hearts.”

Since the event’s announcement, Theo has been diligently training, working hard to regain his strength and stamina. “Theo is incredibly motivated and continues to impress us with his progress,” his mother adds. “We’re hoping he’ll be ready to complete part of the event in the summer, although the swimming challenge may take a bit longer due to his right-sided weakness.”

Theo’s progress is especially meaningful, given the uncertainty of his recovery. At one point, it was unclear whether he would even be able to return to school. However, thanks to the support of

his school, Westonbirt, Theo has thrived in the school environment, where teachers and classmates have been nothing short of extraordinary in helping him settle in.

“Westonbirt has been simply wonderful,” says his mother. “Theo has been welcomed with open arms by his peers, and his teachers have gone above and beyond, offering one-to-one support, playing cards with him at lunch, and helping him navigate the school campus. It’s a true gift to see him so happy and well-settled.”

Theo’s peers have been equally supportive. “They’ve made sure Theo feels included in every activity, even though he can’t attend school full-time,” she continues. “He’s so proud to be a Westonbirt pupil, and their kindness has made a world of difference.”

The Theo-athon’s fundraising goal is to support Cavernoma Alliance UK, a charity working to raise awareness, fund research, and offer vital support to families affected by cavernomas. Cavernomas are extremely rare, with just 160 people in the UK diagnosed each year. This rare condition can have life-changing consequences, and for Theo, it has altered his life in profound ways. Despite this, he remains resolute in his determination to give back to the community that has supported him through his recovery.

“We are incredibly grateful for the kindness and generosity shown to us since Theo’s illness,” says his mother. “The support has been overwhelming, and we can’t thank everyone enough for their donations and encouragement. It’s been an emotional journey, but Theo’s resilience continues to inspire us all, and it’s the love and support of everyone that fuels his motivation to keep pushing forward.”

The event has already exceeded its fundraising target, and donations continue to grow. The family expresses heartfelt thanks to all who have contributed. “The last eight months have been challenging, but we are determined to look forward and make a difference. Thanks to your support, we are helping to shine a light on cavernomas and support vital research.”

To support the Theo-athon and help fund vital research for Cavernoma Alliance UK, visit the JustGiving page here.