Epic challenge to bring safer spine imaging to Norfolk’s children

A fearless spinal surgery team from the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is taking on a demanding 180‑mile multi‑day challenge to help transform care for children and young people with scoliosis.

Now in its second year, Spineathlon 2026 begins on 26 June, during Scoliosis Awareness Month, and will see the team travel by kayak, on foot and by bicycle across Norfolk in support of the N&N Hospital Charity’s Spinal Appeal.

Over six days, the team will kayak down the River Yare from Norwich towards Gorleston, walk from Great Yarmouth to Sea Palling and onwards to Cromer, on to Holkham, then Hunstanton before completing the final leg by cycling from the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in King’s Lynn back to NNUH.

The challenge is raising funds towards an £841,000 EOS imaging system – advanced technology designed to improve imaging and significantly reduce radiation exposure for children and young people who require frequent spinal scans.

Scoliosis is a condition that causes the spine to curve and often develops during childhood. As children grow, many require regular X‑rays to monitor changes in their spine, meaning repeated exposure to radiation over many years.

Consultant Spinal Surgeon Tom Marjoram said: “The EOS system can capture images with around an 80% reduction in radiation exposure, which is hugely significant. Children are more vulnerable to radiation, particularly around sensitive areas such as the abdomen and pelvis, so reducing exposure wherever possible is incredibly important.”

“For patients who need repeated imaging, often from a very young age, this technology will significantly reduce their lifetime exposure to radiation. At the same time, it provides clearer, more accurate images, helping clinicians plan treatment more effectively and ultimately improve outcomes for patients.”

The EOS scanner would be the first of its kind in the East of England, benefiting children from across Norfolk and the wider region, including those with early‑onset scoliosis and rapid growth spurts.

The appeal has been welcomed by trainee dental nurses Scarlett Turrell, 19, from Lowestoft, who has received treatment for scoliosis.

“When talking about scoliosis not many people know or understand what it is. Clothing was my biggest issue as I felt very insecure and my confidence decreased massively once I knowing I had scoliosis,” she said. “When I was first diagnosed there were quite a few scans as it was all new. To monitor the curve, I then went once or twice a year. When I put my name down for my operation, I think it progressed to going twice a year and then it was a bit more before my surgery.”

The N&N Hospitals Charity is calling on schools, community groups, businesses and individuals to support the appeal through creative fundraising activities such as non‑uniform days, sponsored challenges, bake sales and community events.

Every donation brings the hospital closer to providing safer, more advanced spine imaging for children – now and for future generations.

To find out how to support the team, visit  Spineathlon 2026 – JustGiving