Astro Brain Tumour Fund

The Astro Brain Tumour Fund is a UK-based charity that focuses exclusively on low-grade glioma (LGG) brain tumours, specifically Grades 1 & 2 Astrocytoma, Oligodendroglioma, and Ependymoma. It is registered under the charity number 1133561.

Founding and Purpose

• Founding: The charity was established in April 2001 by Katie Sheen after her sister's husband, Paul Chamberlain, was diagnosed with a low-grade astrocytoma in December 2000 at the age of 30.
• Purpose: The fund aims to raise money for LGG research, support affected individuals and their families, gather and disseminate information, and increase awareness about the challenges associated with living with LGG[1][4].

Activities

• Research Funding: Astro Brain Tumour Fund dedicates its efforts to sponsoring research projects focused on low-grade gliomas[3].
• Support Services: The charity provides support to patients and their families through two online support groups[2][5].
• Advocacy: It also serves as an advocate for the LGG community, aiming to enhance understanding and support for those affected by this type of brain tumour[5].

Structure and Governance

• Trustees and Volunteers: The charity is managed by seven trustees and assisted by twenty volunteers. No trustees receive remuneration or benefits from the charity[2].
• Financial Details: For the financial year ending April 2024, the charity reported a total income of £37,862 and a total expenditure of £84,655. It does not have any trading subsidiaries[2][5].

Name and Mission

• Name Origin: The name "Astro" reflects Paul Chamberlain's poignant observation that an astrocyte, a type of brain cell named after stars, could become a problematic tumour (astrocytoma). The name symbolizes hope and light for those facing similar diagnoses[1].
• Mission: The fund's mission is to be a central point for the LGG community by funding research and providing support and information to those affected[3].

[1] https://www.astrofund.org.uk/about-us/ [2] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/charity-details/?regid=1133561&subid=0 [3] https://www.astrofund.org.uk/our-mission/ [4] https://111.wales.nhs.uk/localservices/viewlocalservice.aspx?id=1646 [5] https://register-of-charities.charitycommission.gov.uk/en/charity-search/-/charity-details/4048338/full-print