In 2009, Kiko nearly died of a brain tumour and underwent lifesaving neurosurgery at King’s College Hospital in London. The tumour resulted in Cushing's disease, a syndrome that causes excessive amounts of the hormone cortisol to be released by the adrenal glands. This rare condition can cause memory loss, psychosis, diabetes, osteoporosis, insomnia and muscle wastage, as well as further tumours.
Eight years ago, Kiko could barely walk up the stairs. Less than a year ago, while training for her Atlantic row, Kiko had a recurrence and had to have further surgery to remove a second tumour.
Following the treatment she received at King’s, Kiko wanted to give something back and set herself a phenomenal challenge – to row the Atlantic Ocean solo and unsupported, and raise £100,000 for the new Critical Care Centre that is currently being built at King’s Denmark Hill campus.
A year ago, Kiko had never rowed before. This incredible achievement was accomplished in aid of King’s College Hospital Charity’s Support Life Appeal, which aims to raise £2.5 million to fund life changing enhancements to the new Critical Care Centre. Charitable support will provide the world’s first outdoor critical care facility, improve the internal environment for patients, staff and their families, and support research in the new centre.
Kiko Matthews
Dr Thomas Best, Critical Care Consultant at King's, thanks Kiko for all her hard work.
Kiko has already raised over £82,000. Read about her incredible journey on her website www.kikomatthews.co.uk
