Journey across LuxembourgUK-trio undertakes 107-km run to raise awareness for rare condition

RTL Today
Jed and his friends embarked on a 107km run across Luxembourg, raising awareness for CSF leaks, a condition that left his mother, Gabrielle, bed-bound for years.
© Gabrielle Brandon

On Wednesday, UK-based Jed, together with his two friends Cam and Harjot, started his journey to run the length of Luxembourg. The challenge will stretch over three days and will cover roughly 107 kilometres – longer than Luxembourg itself.

They will not be on their own, as they have the support of two young men, Kai, cycling next to them, and Jack driving alongside, ready to help along the way.

But the boys are not doing this purely out of pleasure. While they enjoy keeping fit, they thought it would be an exciting challenge for their CSF Leaks Association charity.

Jed’s mother, Gabrielle, was diagnosed with a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak, a condition that is often overlooked but potentially severe. It is characterised by a small tear or gap in the outer membrane that encloses the fluid around the spinal cord and brain.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders can be treatable, but the specific approach depends on the underlying condition.

When a leak persists, whether due to ineffective treatment or a delayed diagnosis, long-term disability can occur. This may include severe chronic pain, visual disturbances, seizures, and nerve damage. Consequently, individuals may find themselves unable to work, engage in physical activities, or perform everyday tasks that others might consider routine.

Gabrielle was bed-bound for three years, and her recovery has been slow, as was her diagnosis, which took years. After a 2021 operation, she now faces a new CSF leak or a CSF venous fistula, requiring more scans and spinal surgery.

Like her son Jed, Gabrielle shares her story to raise awareness. Learn more about Gabrielle and her condition and if you want to support Jed in his cause, click here.

Route

  1. Tuesday: A Wiendelen (Rumelange) → Cactus (Mersch): a total of 45 kilometres
    • 21 kilometres to Luxembourg national stadium
    • roughly 34 kilometres to Heisdorf Castle
    • 10.3 kilometres to Mersch (final stop for the day)

  2. Wednesday: Cactus (Mersch) → Hosingen: a total of 37 kilometres and 1.3 kilometres climb…
    • 14.8k kilometres to Ettelbruck
    • 28.65 kilometres to Hoscheid
    • 9.3 kilometres to Hosingen (final stop for the day)

  3. Thursday: Hosingen → Aldi (Huldange-Forge): a total of 25.75 kilometres
    • 16 kilometres to Weiswampach
    • 9.5 kilometres to FINISH LINE

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