ALTRINCHAM TEEN TO TAKE ON MANCHESTER HALF AFTER RARE BRAIN TUMOUR DIAGNOSIS
UPDATE – Find out how Freddie got on at the Manchester Half 2025 here.
In 2024, Freddie Meredith was a 17-year-old with a busy schedule of college, socialising and athletics.
As a member of Trafford AC with a 5k PB of 14:54, Freddie was used to training 6 times a week and taking part national competitions.
Freddie is a dedicated member of Trafford AC and has taken part in national competitions.
However, in December, Freddie was diagnosed with a rare type of brain tumour, which put his life on hold after months of symptoms such as worsening headaches and blurred vision.
When remembering the emergency surgery doctors undertook to relieve water pressure on his brain, Freddie said ““It was definitely the scariest moment of my life”.
Freddie underwent emergency surgery to relieve water pressure on his brain.
When the tumour was identified as cancerous, he recalled having “no idea what the next few months would look like and how much life would change. But mum and dad reassured me things would be OK – and my brother who is a medical student told me what to expect in the coming months”.
The reality was 18 weeks of gruelling radiotherapy and chemotherapy that would force Freddie’s life to grind to a halt, while peers celebrated turning 18 and finishing exams.
“I was frustrated, although the treatment and support I received from The Christie was amazing. They took good care of me and my family”.
Now, having turned 18 and completed his treatment and college course, Freddie is focusing on enjoying the summer and training for the Manchester Half in October.
“I used to train almost every day, but now I’m just easing back into running socially with friends. I’m currently building up stamina and will then add some speed work”.
Freddie paced his friend Ethan at the Manchester Half 2024.
In the lead up to the event on 12th October, Freddie is also aiming to raise as much money as possible for The Christie charity, who he praised as “so helpful” during his treatment.
He will be supported by family and friends – including those who shaved their heads in solidarity with Freddie before he started chemotherapy.
Freddie’s friends shaved their head to support their friend before his chemotherapy treatment.
“I paced a friend at the Manchester Half last year and remember the amazing crowds and energy. It will be great to be back, this time giving back to an important cause like The Christie”.
Donate to Freddie’s fundraising page for The Christie below, which will enable the charity to continue the support and treat people with cancer.
Thank you, Freddie, for sharing your story and we wish you the best of luck on event day.