There are so many deserving fundraisers within the Huntington's community who have gone above and beyond to raise valuable funds and awareness to support those affected by Huntington's.
The Huntington’s Disease Association Awards is our annual event to recognise and celebrate the fantastic achievements of those who support our work and those who support anyone affected by Huntington's disease over the past year. This year's nominees have been chosen because of their outstanding commitment to fundraising.
We would like to thank our event sponsor FI Real Estate Management. You can read more about them at the bottom of the page.
Fundraiser of the year
Matthew Gibson – Ultra year
In 2025, Matthew, from North Lincolnshire, completed the 50k Ultra Marathon Grand Slam, consisting of three ultra-marathons. Alongside the Ultras, Matthew also completed the JOGLE Virtual Challenge, covering the equivalent distance from Land’s End to John O’Groats.
“Each of these challenges represents a significant physical and mental test, undertaken with the same purpose: to raise awareness, inspire support, and help any families affected by Huntington’s disease.”
Young fundraiser of the year
Max Walters and Laureate Academy – Nuclear Rush weekend
A group of sixteen students and five members of staff from Laureate Academy in Hertfordshire decided to show their support to a fellow pupil last year by taking part in the Nuclear Rush weekend (a 12k obstacle course race). Sarah Dolling, Associate Assistant Principal, told us:
“The students worked extremely hard and really pushed themselves outside of their comfort zone to make this happen.”
Fundraising group of the year
Daniel Smith - Lake District 24 Peaks Challenge
This group of old school friends from Wigan took on the Lake District 24 Peaks Challenge in June 2025. The challenge involved climbing 24 of the highest mountains in the Lake District over two days, covering 35 miles and 13,000 feet of ascent within 24 hours of walking time. Daniel told us:
“The challenge was incredibly hard and made even worse by the horrendous weather we had on Day 1. Despite us only finishing at 10:00pm after 15 hours of walking and climbing, the team were up and ready for Day 2 at 7:00am, where we had a much better day and finished to a surprise welcome back from family and friends.”
Excellence in health or social care award
Dr David Craufurd
Dr Craufurd is a Neuro-Psychiatrist and Geneticist, who has been working with people and families affected by Huntington’s disease since 1983. Based at Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, David has led a multi-disciplinary team of Huntington's disease professionals. Thereasa Westhead, Specialist Huntington's Disease Adviser said:
Dr. Craufurd has worked tirelessly to improve the understanding of Huntington’s disease world wide, as well as being instrumental in creating Huntington’s Management and Genetic Clinics in Manchester and Lancashire. David is highly committed to Huntington’s disease research and recognises the importance of opening up future hope for families through clinical trials.
Community Group of the Year Award
Our volunteer-led branches and groups are an essential part of our charity, and this award recognises their outstanding contribution to their local Huntington's disease community. Through local meetings and events, as well as emotional and practical support, our branches and groups make a meaningful difference to people's lives.
This year's winner was the North Lincolnshire Support Group.
Founders' award
Dr Sarah Gunn is a Clinical Psychologist in the School of Psychology and Vision Sciences at the University of Leicester. Over the years, the Huntington’s Disease Association has had the privilege of working closely with Sarah, whose warmth, expertise and commitment have made a real difference to people affected by Huntington’s disease and their families. Sarah has been instrumental in developing and delivering the ‘Keeping Yourself in Mind’ courses for the Huntington's community.
Her contribution to the work of Huntington’s Disease Association spans education, events, communications and policy, and she is generous with her time, insight and care. Beyond this, Sarah works across national and international networks and research collaborations. Her dedication continues to make a lasting and meaningful difference to the Huntington’s disease community.
2026 awards sponsor
Thank you so much to FI Real Estate Management for being this year's event sponsor.
Tim Knowles, managing director, FI Real Estate Management said:
"FI are delighted to be sponsoring the Awards this year, and to show our support for the incredible services provided by the charity to people living with Huntington’s disease and helping them live a better life."
About FI Real Estate Management
As one of the UK’s most established names in commercial asset and property management, FI Real Estate Management operates an extensive and diverse portfolio which covers over 15m sq ft, including 6.5m sq ft of new build developments, across the nation, with assets totalling in excess £1.2bn.
