Legacy goes on for sassy Tasha

In life, Tasha Floyd of Hampton Hargate had defied her disabilities to raise thousands of pounds for the Brain Tumour Charity and help half brain tumour diagnosis times.

And her inspiration lives on through mum Shona who was one of the people two Saturdays ago to walk the 23km Thames Bridges Trek, crossing 16 London bridges, to raise £3,700 for the charity.

Shona said: “It was hard going and wet, but everyone did so well. It was a relief when we crossed the finishing line at Tower Bridge. We’re so grateful to everyone who sponsored us as research into this cruel disease is vital to help stop other families going through our heartache.

“Tasha was one of the charity’s first young ambassadors and passionate about helping to raise awareness. Our inspiring, sassy girl never felt sorry for herself and wanted to make a difference – now we’re carrying on in her name.”

Fun-loving Tasha was just 16 when diagnosed with a brain tumour in September 2008, seven months after her symptoms of headaches, lethargy, walking difficulties and visual disturbances were explained by her GP as GCSE stress.

The delay in treatment meant Tasha lost her sight after radiotherapy, but she defied the doctors who told her she had a year to live by learning to play the guitar and studying Business and PR at Liverpool John Moores University while undergoing chemotherapy. She also played a key role in launching the charity’s five-year strategy ‘Defeating Brain Tumours’ which aims to double survival rates within 10 years.

Sarah Lindsell, the charity’s chief executive, said: “Tasha was an inspiration and a joy. We all miss her very much.”If you would like to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/teams/Tasha.