A local teenager has been named a finalist in the Rising Stars category at the 2026 JustGiving Awards.
George Romer-Lee, 17, from Ipswich, raised more than £14,400 for The Brain Tumour Charity after drumming non-stop for 12 hours.
The challenge was held in memory of his childhood friend Lizzie, who died from Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG), a rare and inoperable brain tumour, just one week before her 10th birthday.
Mr Romer-Lee said: "I’m so honoured to be named a finalist at this year’s JustGiving Awards.
"It means a lot to me because it helps keep Lizzie’s memory alive, while raising awareness of childhood brain tumours and encouraging more people to support the search for a cure.
He said that Lizzie was one of his closest friends, and that he had known her since he was a toddler.
"We grew up together, sharing so many happy memories, so losing her to DIPG at just nine years old was heartbreaking.
"Taking on the 12-hour drumming challenge was a huge personal test, but it was nothing compared to the strength, courage and resilience Lizzie showed every single day."
The event took place at Nayland Village Hall, where he performed songs from different genres throughout the day, raising funds and awareness.
Friends were invited to join in with their own instruments, turning the drumathon into a celebration of music, community, and Lizzie's life.
Funds raised will support Lizzie’s Fund, an appeal created by her parents, Sally and Mark, through The Brain Tumour Charity to support research into childhood brain tumours.
Mr Romer-Lee is one of 16 finalists in this year’s JustGiving Awards.
Pascale Harvie, president and general manager of JustGiving, said George was a "truly inspiring" and "hugely deserving finalist".
"Completing a 12-hour non-stop drumming challenge is an incredible test of endurance.
"He’s shown great courage in turning a deeply personal loss into a positive force for change and his determination to keep Lizzie’s legacy alive is truly admirable," he added.
Winners will be decided by public vote, which closes on Sunday, September 13.
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