"Grandad had a huge influence on my life". When Erin Hamilton opened her prospectus, she knew exactly what she wanted to do.
"I wanted my studies to incorporate neuroscience and, in a project, I looked at the disease he died of," says Erin, a Biomedical Science student at the University of Portsmouth. Her grandad, Russell Shreeves, passed away in December 2019.
Inspired by his battle with glioblastoma, she has channelled her personal loss into a passion for scientific research, aspiring to contribute to advancements in brain tumour treatment.
"I'm interested in the clinical trial space. Knowing that one day I can help people through science is something to aspire to and, whilst I'm not there yet, I'll continue to do what I can to drive investment in research into brain tumours."
Erin's dedication extends beyond the classroom. Despite managing type 1 diabetes and a self-professed aversion to running, she has undertaken significant physical challenges to raise funds and awareness for Brain Tumour Research .
In 2024, Erin completed the TCS London Marathon and is currently training for the London Landmarks Half Marathon (LLHM) on Sunday (6 April), followed by the Berlin Marathon in September. Her family has been integral to these efforts, collectively raising nearly £40,000 through various events.
Erin is working towards running the six world major marathons. By the end of this year she will have two stars under her belt, with the most challenging marathons to come.
"For over five years, my family has been fundraising for Brain Tumour Research, but this time, it's all about the kids!
"I'll be running the LLHM with my sister and best mates - Izzy, Josh, Will, and Toby. It'll be a huge challenge for us, but we can't wait to take it on together.
"We're running in memory of those we've lost and for everyone still fighting. Brain tumours are the biggest cancer killer of children and adults under 40, but research into this disease receives just 1 per cent of the national cancer research budget. That has to change, and we're doing our bit to help make that happen."
At the University of Portsmouth, Erin benefits from world-class facilities that support her academic journey in biomedical science. The School of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Biomedical Sciences offers a simulated clinical environment where students gain hands-on experience in diagnosing and managing diseases. This includes collaborative microscopy sessions, allowing for in-depth analysis and discussion of microscopic images.
The Pharmaceutics Laboratories provide cutting-edge resources for understanding disease mechanisms and developing new therapeutic strategies. These labs are central to the School of Medicine, Pharmacy, and Biomedical Sciences , supporting both undergraduate education and postgraduate research.
"I love studying at the University because my course allows me to explore the areas of biomedicine that really inspire - particularly neuroscience", said Erin.
"For my research module I looked at glioblastoma and the current standard treatment for that disease. I'm just at the beginning of my career, but I'm confident I'm going in the right direction!"
Erin's course lead, Gavin Knight , added: "Erin's journey is a great example of how personal motivation can drive academic and professional ambitions. She's taken her own experiences and turned them into a real passion for science, and we're proud to support her as she develops her skills in our world-class facilities. We wish her the best of luck in her studies and in her incredible fundraising efforts for such an important cause."
To donate to Brain Tumour Research via Erin's London Landmark Half Marathon challenge please visit: justgiving.com/page/brainiacs2025
