Project West! Cycling 1000km to raise brain tumor awareness!

In June 2025, just over a year since a brain tumor diagnosis, we will take on Project West, a cycling challenge along Ireland's west coast, to raise significant awareness of brain tumors and the devastating impact that the many forms of this illness have on so many children and adults. At the heart of this effort is hope: hope that we can support those affected by brain tumors, whether through the care and compassion offered by the two selected organisations or by inspiring others on similar journeys to find moments of joy, strength, and resilience. Every turn of the wheel carries us forward, reminding us to keep pushing on, even when the road is steep.

In early February 2024, just days before his 30th birthday, Jason received the unexpected news that a brain tumor had been discovered - a Grade II Diffused Astrocytoma. There were no symptoms, no warnings, and just a few weeks later, he underwent a major surgery. At first, the months that followed seemed manageable, even enjoyable, but that new path quickly became more difficult. Jason never expected that at thirty years old he would be rebuilding his basic human skills, such as reading, creating and imagining, and even now with lost memories and forgotten words, it still feels so surreal for him. But, with each step forward, Jason has come to see life’s quiet resilience. He feel's incredibly fortunate to be here today, experiencing life’s fragility and having found strength in its uncertainty. While the future remains uncertain, Jason moves forward with substantial gratitude, hoping that in some small way, he can also lift others as he navigates this journey. In moments like this, Jason believes that a simple spark of positivity can illuminate the way for someone else.

Starting on June 22nd, we will set off from Mizen Head, Ireland’s southernmost point, and together we’ll follow the rugged West Coast, aiming to reach Malin Head, the northernmost point, by Saturday, June 28th. We are a group of 8 cyclists, with a variety of experience, and supported by several family members and friends without whom this would not be possible. Covering this distance will be a challenge in itself, made even tougher by climbing over 8500m of elevation along the way. But as we pass through several counties, it’s also an opportunity to connect with the dozens of communities we visit - to share stories, to build awareness, to shed light on the impact of brain tumours and the support that the medical systems need. In Ireland, brain tumours are the second highest cause of cancer-related deaths among children, yet the funding for research and development is lower than most other cancer types. A better understanding and support of this illness is truly needed. Brain tumours affect not only the individuals, but also their families, friends and caregivers. These battles can be so hard to face, and can have such a severe and long-lasting impact on the quality of life.

This fundraising effort is dedicated to supporting both Brain Tumour Ireland and CRIG (Cancer Research Institute Ghent). Jason's journey began in Ghent, Belgium, where he has lived since 2020, and where he has been so fortunate to receive exceptional care from UZ Gent Hospital, which is connected to CRIG. This experience has shown us firsthand the vital role medical research plays in patient care, and through this fundraiser, Jason hope's to express a deep appreciation and gratitude for their unwavering support, and for their ongoing research which gives him hope for the future. We also want to raise awareness for Brain Tumour Ireland and the invaluable support they provide to patients and families affected by brain tumours in Ireland. They work tirelessly to offer resources, advocacy, and a sense of community to those navigating a challenging diagnosis. By highlighting and promoting the work of both organizations, we hope to contribute to advancing research and offering support on both a personal and broader scale. All donated funds will be equally split between BTI and CRIG.

Brain Tumor Ireland

Cancer Research Institute Ghent

This journey is about more than just the distance - it’s about connection and community. We would love for anyone to get involved, whether that be accompanying us for some cycling, helping spread the word of this awareness event, or even arranging for local cafés and businesses to be a stop along the way. Your support, in any form, will help raise awareness and make a meaningful impact for those affected by brain tumours.

Thank you to so many people for your ongoing support in helping Jason along this new pathway, and thank you to everyone who will be interested in supporting this awareness challenge!

Please feel free to make contact for any further information via instagram: jasonladrigan