A brave young patient is taking part in our sponsored pyjama walk to raise money for the hospital that supported her through a rare brain condition.

Betsy Bullen, aged 11 from Blackburn, was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition that causes inflammation and affects the protective covering around the nerves in the brain and spinal cord.

Betsy’s journey began in February this year. At a friend’s sleepover, she suddenly became unwell and within an hour had a seizure. She was rushed to her local hospital where doctors were initially baffled, as tests showed no clear issues.

It was only after a doctor suggested an MRI scan, a medical test that provides detailed pictures of the inside of the body, that lesions were found on the right side of Betsy’s brain. A few days later, after further inconclusive tests, doctors began to suspect glioma, a type of brain tumour.

Betsy and her mum, Rebecca, were referred to specialists at Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital (RMCH) where she was looked after by Prof Ian Kamaly, consultant neurosurgeon, and his team.

Rebecca said: “From the moment we arrived, Professor Kamaly and the whole team at RMCH were incredible – compassionate, thorough, and supportive. We felt truly cared for during such a frightening time.

“In March, when Betsy relapsed, she was admitted to RMCH where she underwent a biopsy and spent over a week as an inpatient.

“Waiting for the results were some of the hardest times we’ve faced. When they finally came through, we were so relieved to hear it wasn’t a tumour. Instead, Betsy was diagnosed with a rare neurological condition causing inflammation around the nerves in her brain and spinal cord.”

The care Betsy received at RMCH has now inspired the family to support our Charity appeal to provide the hospital with a Rocket Scanner, helping other children having scans to feel less alone.

Rocket Scanners are playful, rocket-shaped MRI-simulators designed to help children overcome the fear and anxiety associated with an MRI scan.

Designed specifically for children, these innovative play scanners create a fun and relaxed environment where young patients can practice lying still, just like in a real MRI scanner. They provide children with an opportunity to get used to the scan experience in a relaxed and enjoyable way, helping them prepare them for the real thing.

Children lie down inside the rocket-themed simulator which is equipped with lights and sounds that mimic the real MRI machine. To make the experience fun, interactive games reward the child with points for staying still, helping them understand the importance of remaining calm and still during the scan.

Betsy will be talking part in our Pyjama Walk – a sponsored walk around Heaton Park on Saturday November 8, 2025, where participants dress in pyjamas, onesies or dressing gowns to raise money to help purchase Rocket Scanners to reduce fear and anxiety for other children who need MRI scans.

The 5km family-friendly walk has an accessible route and will feature a lively warm up and entertainment along the way. Entry is £6 per person and there’s even a family discount on tickets, making it a perfect day out for young families.

Rebecca added: “When Betsy was first in hospital, the Play Specialists showed her how an MRI machine works using a LEGO model, which really helped calm her nerves, but the scan was still a daunting prospect for her.

“The new Rocket Scanners will make such a difference for children like Betsy, turning something scary into something fun and familiar.

“Our original fundraising goal was £500, but we’ve already raised over £2,000 – and we’re absolutely overwhelmed. The support we’ve received has made us more confident in sharing Betsy’s story, knowing we can help others and make a difference.”

Betsy said: “Being in hospital is frightening.  The doctors and nurses at RMCH are really kind and help me to not feel frightened but tests and scans are still scary. The Rocket Scanners will make having an MRI scan much less scary.”

Dawn Stone, our Senior Events Manager, said: “We’re so proud to be hosting our very first charity Pyjama Walk this year, it’s a lovely opportunity for families to come together to make a difference for our young patients, and experience Heaton Park as the seasons change!

“There’s still time to sign up and take part. All participants raising over £100 will also be entered into a free prize draw to win a two-night stay for a family of four at Riverside Cabins in Shropshire.”

This year’s event is kindly sponsored by bedding company Happy Linen Company.

A spokesperson for the Happy Linen Company said: “We’re so pleased to be sponsoring the Pyjama Walk and Betsy’s story really goes to show what an excellent cause we’re supporting.

“Our wonderful NHS hospitals achieve incredible things on a daily basis. We feel honoured to be supporting this work in partnership with Manchester Foundation Trust Charity and the Rocket Scanner Appeal.”

To sponsor Betsy’s walk please visit: https://www.justgiving.com/page/betsybullen-pj-walk