Conor Harding was first diagnosed with leukemia at 5 years old, according to Brain Tumor Research, a UK charity dedicated to funding brain cancer research. After multiple relapses throughout his childhood, Conor, now 21 and living in London, had been cancer-free for over 4 years.

This period allowed him to live as a typical adult for the first time. He shared that he never truly believed cancer was entirely in the past, but he had a long stretch feeling healthy, living life as a normal teenager—playing rugby, socializing, and bonding with friends.

In 9/2025, after enduring persistent headaches, Conor received a diagnosis of glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer. He shared that doctors informed him survival from this disease was unlikely.

"Hearing that news was cruel, but I knew my parents felt even more pain", Conor confided.

Conor Harding as a child (left) and as an adult. Conor Harding

Conor Harding as a child (left) and as an adult. Conor Harding

Immediately after this recent diagnosis, Conor underwent brain surgery, requiring 65 stitches on his skull. He then began a combined chemotherapy and radiation treatment regimen. However, by 2/2026, MRI results showed 3 of the previously removed tumors had recurred.

Instead of focusing on himself, Conor stated his greatest priority was supporting his loved ones. "I have to be strong for my family and those around me", he said. "The first time I was diagnosed with leukemia, I was a little panicked. But by the third and 4th relapses, my mindset was different because there was still hope for recovery. With glioblastoma, however, this disease is completely incurable".

Trevor Harding, Conor's father, shared that the grim prognosis for his son's condition was devastating for the entire family. "When I heard the doctor say Conor's life wouldn't last much longer, I completely broke down and couldn't accept it", he shared.

Mr. Harding stated that the family had supported Conor through many illnesses, but this time felt like a final pronouncement. They knew there would be no positive outcome, that Conor would eventually die from this disease. "That is a truly cruel reality", the father added.

Conor's family decided to share their story to raise public awareness and boost funding for research. His father also directly participated in fundraising activities, completing the London Marathon in 4/2026 and raising nearly 23,000 USD for brain tumor research. He also plans to complete two more marathons in 2026.

Conor Harding and his father, Trevor Harding. Conor Harding

Conor Harding and his father, Trevor Harding. Conor Harding

According to Mr. Harding, his motivation for fundraising stems from the significant disparity in funding for brain tumor research compared to other cancers. "I was surprised to learn that brain tumors are the leading cause of cancer death in children and people under 40, yet since 2002, the disease has received only 1% of the national cancer research budget", he said.

According to Brain Tumor Research, only about one-third of patients diagnosed with glioblastoma survive beyond one year, and only 4% live for 5 years or more. The average life expectancy for patients is just 12 to 18 months.

Binh Minh (According to People)