Category Archives: Cancer

Cancer, Charity & CSR, Healthcare, News, Sport

The MOLE Clinic Teams Up with Salford City Football Club for 2-Day Skin Cancer Screening Event

Specialist Screening Nurses from The MOLE Clinic, the only UK private clinic group dedicated to skin cancer screening, partnered with English Football League (EFL) club, Salford City FC, to host a 2-day session of mole checks for the players, as part of a new national initiative to promote early detection.

The club was one of the first of several sports associations throughout the UK to come on board and show their support for The MOLE Clinic’s campaign, in raising awareness of the importance of regular screening to help improve UK survival rates.

The attending nurses, who are based in the Central Manchester branch of The MOLE Clinic, provided both Full Body Skin Checks and Single Mole Checks to the senior men’s and women’s sections at the club.

Emma Jones, Marketing Director at The MOLE Clinic explains; “We are keen to capture the attention of as many communities as possible with our life-saving early detection campaign, and having the support of well-established and highly regarded regional associations such as Salford City FC is ideal for amplifying the message.

“At The MOLE Clinic, we recognise that outdoor sports players are subjected to high levels of UV exposure, increasing their risk of developing skin cancer.

“As part of our mission to help lower the UK skin cancer mortality rate by detecting skin cancers early, we are delighted to be partnering with Salford City FC to propel this message via our community Skin Cancer Screening Programme.

“Throughout the ongoing campaign, our Screening Nurses will be setting out to a range of different outdoor sports clubs across the UK, to raise awareness for early detection, and provide sportsmen & women with peace of mind.

“We are delighted to have rounded off a positive weekend filled with Skin Cancer Screening sessions for the team members at Salford City FC, offering complimentary Single Mole Checks and Full Body Skin Checks for the men’s & women’s teams.”

Karl Robinson, Head Coach at Salford City Football Club states: “The Salford City team and community spend a lot of time outdoors, both during game time and in training sessions. Players and staff endure long periods of sun exposure multiple times a week, so raising awareness for protection and prevention against skin cancer is vital to us.

We were delighted to welcome The MOLE Clinic for 2 days of skin cancer screening sessions for our players and staff, where Screening Nurse Dawn performed Full Body Skin Checks and Single Mole Checks.

Our players jumped at the chance to gain peace of mind, and we encourage our wider community to do the same, as early detection means skin cancer is highly treatable.”

Building on its strong presence across the UK, with specialist medical teams treating more than 35,000 people every year at its clinics in London, Bristol, Edinburgh, Glasgow and now Manchester, The MOLE Clinic has partnered with Zeus PR to elevate its profile around each of the individual clinics, with an additional focus on boosting its presence in the North West.

The MOLE Clinic was founded by lawyer Iain Mack who was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in 2002. He quickly became passionate about assisting others to detect skin cancers early to help improve UK survival rates.  Iain subsequently founded The MOLE Clinic® in London in 2003 and pioneered skin cancer screening in the UK, and developed The Mole Clinic Screening Nurse Training Programme – the only such programme accredited by the Royal College of Nursing.

He also developed the UK’s first Skin Cancer Screening App using AI. The App has been used by NHS GPs since 2005, reducing NHS waiting times and costs. The App won the UK Patient Safety Awards and was exhibited in the London Science Museum. Iain was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in 2005 and has been nominated as finalist in Laing Buisson Healthcare Awards for ‘Entrepreneurial Achievement’.

More information on The MOLE Clinic can be found at https://www.themoleclinic.co.uk/

Cancer, Charity Events, Scotland

Glenn Campbell named as Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh’s 2025 Keynote Speaker

Following his life changing brain cancer diagnosis, journalist, Glenn Campbell, will talk about what he calls the ‘biggest challenge of his life’ at this year’s Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh dinner at Prestonfield House which will take place on 17 May 2025.

The esteemed political reporter will be joined by fellow broadcaster and entertainer Grant Stott who will serve as the evening’s host and auctioneer, leading efforts to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

While in his day job, Glenn Campbell is more accustomed to telling other people’s stories, now, he is stepping into the spotlight to share his own personal journey with brain cancer, offering an inspiring and thought-provoking insight into his experience.

Glenn Campbell

The annual dinner stands as the highlight of Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh’s fundraising calendar, uniting the city’s business community to support and celebrate the groundbreaking scientific research occurring in Scotland.

Attendees will have the opportunity to network with some of Edinburgh’s top business figures, participate in exclusive silent and live auctions, bid on an exceptional range of prizes, and hear uplifting stories from Cancer Research UK scientists, Chair of the Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh Board Lou Kiddier, and Glenn Campbell.

 

Speaking ahead of the dinner, Glenn Campbell said:

“Being diagnosed with brain cancer was the most challenging experience of my life. However, it has profoundly reshaped my priorities and introduced me to an incredibly supportive community. The ‘cancer club’ is one that no one wants to join, but its members have been a source of strength and inspiration.”

 

Glenn’s journey has reignited his passion for Scotland’s landscapes, and his Munro climbs have become a symbol of resilience and hope. He’s eager to share his story at the upcoming dinner and play his part in raising funds for vital research.

Cancer impacts thousands of lives annually. In Scotland, an average of 34,600 people are diagnosed with cancer each year. All funds raised through Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh go directly to the Cancer Research UK Scotland Centre.

 

Scotland has a strong legacy in cancer research, with Edinburgh playing a crucial role in advancing breakthroughs against the disease. The Cancer Research UK Scotland Centre unites leading scientists and NHS staff from Glasgow and Edinburgh, focusing on innovative ways to prevent, detect, and treat hard-to-treat cancers. Edinburgh researchers possess particular expertise in brain tumour research, collaborating within the CRUK Brain Tumour Centre of Excellence, a joint initiative with University College London. This Centre is dedicated to driving progress in tackling brain cancer through cutting-edge discovery and clinical evaluation of new treatments.

With an impressive £560,000 raised to date, Business Beats Cancer Edinburgh is the best-performing Business Beats Cancer Board in the UK. The Annual Dinner continues to be a vital contributor to life-saving research, and this year promises an unmissable evening of networking, entertainment, and fundraising.

Tables are available for purchase for the 2025 dinner, but availability is limited.

 

Event Details

Date: Thursday, 15th May 2025

Venue: Prestonfield House and Hotel

Table Price (10 people): £1,500

 

To purchase a table or find out more, please contact Holly.Frazer@cancer.org.uk.

Cancer, News

The MOLE Clinic Teams Up with Manchester Rugby Club to Launch Early Detection Campaign

Specialist Screening Nurses from The MOLE Clinic, the only UK private clinic group dedicated to skin cancer screening, visited Manchester Rugby Club over the weekend to provide mole checks for the players, as part of a new national initiative to promote early detection.

The club was the first sports association, across several throughout the UK to come on board and show their support for The MOLE Clinic’s campaign, in raising awareness of the importance of regular screening to help improve UK survival rates.

The attending nurses, who are based in the Central Manchester branch of The MOLE Clinic, provided both Full Body Skin Checks and Single Mole Checks to the senior men’s and women’s sections at the club.

Emma Jones, Marketing Director at The MOLE Clinic explains; “We are keen to reach right into the heart of the community with our life-saving, early detection campaign, and having the support of well-established and highly regarded regional associations such as Manchester Rugby Club is ideal for amplifying the message.

“At The MOLE Clinic, we recognise that outdoor sports players are subjected to high levels of UV exposure, increasing their risk factor of developing skin cancer.

“As part of our mission to help lower the UK skin cancer mortality rate by detecting skin cancers early, we are delighted to have successfully kickstarted our community Skin Cancer Screening Programme.

“Our Screening Nurses will be travelling to a range of different outdoor sports clubs across the UK, to raise awareness for early detection, and provide sportsmen & women with peace of mind.

“We are delighted to have rounded off a positive weekend filled with Skin Cancer Screening sessions for the team members at Manchester Rugby Club, offering complimentary Single Mole Checks and Full Body Skin Checks for the men’s & women’s teams.”

Tim Holmes, Chair of Rugby at Manchester Rugby Club states: “Our players spend a lot of time training and playing matches outdoors, and therefore are more exposed to the sun on a regular basis. We were only too happy to welcome The MOLE Clinic nurses, with their advanced screening equipment, into the club.

“Raising awareness for early skin cancer detection resonates with Manchester Rugby Club’s philosophy, as we are always keen to support our players with impactful initiatives.

“As skin cancer is highly treatable if caught early enough, we would encourage people in the community to have any suspicious moles checked straight away, and preferably go for annual checks.”

Building on its strong presence across the UK, with specialist medical teams treating more than 35,000 people every year at its clinics in London, Bristol, Brighton, Edinburgh, Glasgow and now Manchester, The MOLE Clinic has partnered with Zeus PR to elevate its profile around each of the individual clinics, with an additional focus on boosting its presence in the North West.

The MOLE Clinic was founded by lawyer Iain Mack who was diagnosed with melanoma skin cancer in 2002. He quickly became passionate about assisting others to detect skin cancers early to help improve UK survival rates.  Iain subsequently founded The MOLE Clinic® in London in 2003 and pioneered skin cancer screening in the UK, and developed The Mole Clinic Screening Nurse Training Programme – the only such programme accredited by the Royal College of Nursing.

He also developed the UK’s first Skin Cancer Screening App using AI. The App has been used by NHS GPs since 2005, reducing NHS waiting times and costs. The App won the UK Patient Safety Awards and was exhibited in the London Science Museum. Iain was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Medicine in 2005 and has been nominated as finalist in Laing Buisson Healthcare Awards for ‘Entrepreneurial Achievement’.

More information on The MOLE Clinic can be found at https://www.themoleclinic.co.uk/

Cancer, Charity & CSR, Menopause, Menopause at work, News

Menopause and Cancer receives heartfelt donation from menopause friendly employers

On Friday, Menopause and Cancer – a not-for-profit Community Interest Company – received a heartfelt donation from menopause friendly employers on Valentine’s Day. The £16,000 donation matched the amount raised by 40 sponsored walkers who completed a two-day community fundraising marathon.

The funds that brought the total to £32,000 were raised at the 2024 Menopause Friendly Employer Awards, sponsored by Peppy. Deborah Garlick, who created the Awards, presented the big cheque to Menopause and Cancer alongside two of the other major sponsors, British Airways and Theramex.

Menopause and Cancer unites people needing help and support with a community of experts, giving a more informed and empowered menopause experience for those with a history of cancer. Offering a range of accessible, practical support and services which bridge the information gap, it creates a sense of community and belonging.

Established in 2022, it runs in-person and online workshops, offers written resources, retreats, coffee mornings and education for doctors. Furthermore, it brings its work to an even wider audience in podcasts and Youtube posts.

 

Significant impact

“Theramex was delighted to host the handover of the cheque to this important organisation,” said Tina Backhouse, Cluster GM, UK & Ireland at Theramex. “As a sponsor of the Menopause Friendly Employer Awards, it is wonderful for us to see the money we helped raise have such a significant impact for this valuable community organisation.”

“British Airways is proud to sponsor the Menopause Friendly Employer Awards and to have played a role in raising vital funds for Menopause and Cancer,” added Maurice O’Connor, Wellbeing Manager at British Airways. “We know from our own work how listening to people and offering the right support can help them navigate their menopause more easily and it’s our pleasure to see this donation facilitate help for others in the wider menopause community.”

 

Making a difference

“Managing menopause after cancer is complex and most people tell us they’ve had little to no guidance,” says Dani. “The money raised will make such a difference and help survivors move forward by accessing the support they need to manage the menopause symptoms brought on by their cancer treatment. We are truly grateful!”

 

“The Menopause Friendly Employer Awards is not just a celebration of the very best practice among organisations, it’s also a powerful fundraising opportunity thanks to the generosity of sponsors such as Theramex and British Airways” says Deborah Garlick, CEO and founder of Henpicked: Menopause In The Workplace.  “It is an honour to make this donation to Menopause and Cancer to help fund its extraordinary work connecting cancer survivors with experts who can support. I’m very heartened to know that our donation will fund 53 appointments for cancer survivors to consult a menopause specialist and find the support they need.”

 

The impact of Menopause and Cancer’s work is clear to see: 93% feel less alone in their experience after seeking their support; 90% feel more confident speaking to their healthcare professional about their symptoms and 86% feel more informed about their treatment options.

 

Find out more:

https://menopauseandcancer.org/

https://menopausefriendly.co.uk/mfea24/

 

 

Cancer, News, Wales

New UK Seed Funding Initiative offers up to £10,000 to Innovate Women’s Cancer Care

Women’s cancer care is a vital priority in the UK, with an urgent need for innovative solutions to improve treatment, diagnosis, and patient experiences. To address this challenge, Life Sciences Hub Wales and the Academy of Medical Sciences have launched the Innovation in Women’s Cancer Accelerator Fund.

This initiative offers up to £10,000 in seed funding for UK-based organisations developing transformative projects. By fostering collaboration and innovation, the fund seeks to tackle one of healthcare’s most pressing challenges.

Applications open from 03 February 2025 until 12:00pm on 21 February 2025. 

UK-registered organisations, including project teams or departments, are encouraged to apply. Projects must demonstrate cross-sector, multidisciplinary collaboration, and including at least one Welsh-based partner.

Beyond financial support, awardees will receive tailored support from both Life Sciences Hub Wales and the Academy of Medical Sciences, including guidance to develop partnerships, access to expert networks, and to maximise project impact.

 

Sarah Murphy, Minister for Mental Health and Wellbeing said:

“This research fund could make a huge difference to women’s health and shows the importance of looking for innovative solutions to improve patient care. Initiatives like this reinforce the ambitions of the Women’s Health Plan to improve healthcare services for women. I look forward to seeing this research fund developing and the impact of the projects benefiting from it.”

 

Cari-Anne Quinn, Chief Executive Officer, Life Sciences Hub Wales said: 

“We’re pleased to launch the Women’s Cancer Accelerator Fund. Initiatives like this are vital for driving forward innovative solutions to address the challenges faced by women affected by cancer. I’m proud that Life Sciences Hub Wales are working together with The Academy of Medical Sciences, committing to enhancing cancer care for patients across the nation.”

 

Professor James Naismith, Vice President (Non-Clinical) of the Academy of Medical Sciences, said: “The Innovation in Women’s Cancer Accelerator Fund represents an important collaboration between the Academy of Medical Sciences and Life Sciences Hub Wales to drive transformative change in women’s cancer care. By bringing together diverse expertise from academia, industry, healthcare and the third sector, we’re creating opportunities for researchers to pioneer new approaches that will directly improve care and outcomes. This initiative aligns with our commitment to breaking down barriers between sectors and ensuring research translates into real benefits for patients.”

 

Interested organisations are encouraged to review the Guidance Document for detailed information on eligibility, scope, and available support. Applications can be submitted in Welsh or English and should be sent to hello@lshubwales.com by the specific deadline.

 

Find out more on Life Sciences Hub Wales website here.

 

Cancer, Charity & CSR, Midlands News, News

Inco Contracts smash fundraising target with delivery of 1100 ‘chemo comfort bags’ to Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust

More than 1100 ‘chemo comfort bags’ and 1000 radiotherapy water bottles are going to be delivered to the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Charity after Inco Contracts smashed its fundraising target for 2024.

The principal contractor, which has its headquarters in Cannock, pledged to support cancer patients in the Midlands as its charity of the year and has successfully generated over £20,000 through a series of golf days, a ‘Miles in March’ competition and a one-off £4000 donation from integrated healthcare specialist Phoenix Medical Supplies.

Staff are now busily filling the bags with contents to assist patients while undergoing their chemotherapy journey, including wet wipes, lavender oil, tissues, activity books, a handheld fan, lip balm, colouring pencils and, following a local campaign, different coloured knitted hearts made by craft groups in the area.

Inco Contracts will also hand over more than 1000 radiotherapy water bottles as part of its campaign, doubling the number they were looking to deliver when they started the drive.

 

Associate Director Tim Lewis, who has undergone his own cancer journey, commented: “There has been a fantastic response to this year’s charity drive, with every single member of staff and many companies in our supply chain getting behind it. After all, nearly every person in the UK will know someone who has experienced a battle with cancer.

“Having successfully gone through chemotherapy myself, I know how hard it can be for patients. The chemo comfort bags will provide a welcome boost and support to patients undergoing treatment as part of their journey – it’s the little things that make a big difference and we have raised enough money to ensure 1100 people get one!

“The radiation bottles are an idea I have personally pushed for as I understand how important it is to have the right amount of fluid in your system. It can speed up the process and cut patient’s time in the radiotherapy unit.”

He continued: “A massive thank you to everyone who gave money and their time, especially to Phoenix Medical Supplies, who pledged £4000. That is the single largest donation this year.

“The ‘knit a heart’ campaign also proved what a fantastic group of local crafters we have. Albrighton Craft Group, Brewood Women’s Institute, Wednesfield in Bloom and Gabrielle Blackman-Sheppard played a huge role, with the latter knitting 200 hearts on her own!”

 

Nigel Swift, Phoenix UK’s Deputy Chief Executive, added his support: “This is a cause very close to my own heart and fits perfectly with the company’s desire to support the good causes and local communities we operate in.

“We were delighted to have made our contribution and helped Inco Contracts smash its targets on chemo comfort bags and radiotherapy water bottles. The difference these will make is huge.”

 

Inco Contracts is not stopping there and has added its name to the refurbishment of the children’s garden at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton.

The £35,000 project will bring a tired space back to life with a full redecoration, the build of a large pergola, installation of festoon lights and an outdoor cinema projection screen to provide much-needed outdoor entertainment for poorly children.

Tim continued: “Working with our supply chain partners, we’ve agreed to provide all the painting and electrics for the lights and cinema for free. Families are going through a very difficult time and this outdoor space can provide some welcome relief and distraction – it is  an honour for us to take part.”

Inco Contracts’ Tim Lewis (centre) with colleagues and representatives from the Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Charity and the craft groups.

 

Amanda Winwood, Charity Development Manager at The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust Charity, concluded: “We’ve just taken delivery of our first 400 ‘chemo bags’ and staff on the ward are delighted, as they know what a difference they’ll make. Just having some activities for people to do, little hearts to show people care and the notepad and pen so they can make notes ahead of their next meeting with the consultant.

“The water bottles are such a big thing too. It means we know exactly how much water radiotherapy patients are drinking and we’re not running around filling cups up all the time. It does actually make the treatment go quicker for everyone.”

 

She concluded: “Tim and the company have not stopped there, throwing their weight behind the children’s garden DIY SOS, which will start in earnest in February.

“With Inco donating the labour, paints and the big projector, it means we can spend all the £35,000 raised on making the space the best it can be with an outdoor climbing centre, sound wall, mud kitchen, music kitchen, sensory flowerbeds and new flooring – the latter meaning we can roll out hospital beds too.”

 

For further information, please visit www.incocontracts.co.uk or follow @incocontracts on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Cancer

Cousin Of Tv Presenter Michelle Dewberry Reveals Cancer Ordeal And For Central Register Of Buildings With Asbestos Amid New Campaign On The Issue

A former pharmacy worker who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos at work has said hundreds of thousands of people could die from exposure in Britain’s buildings.

Susan Farrall spoke about her ordeal to her cousin Michelle Dewberry in her show on GB News.

Her comments come amid a major new campaign by the Daily Mail on the issue.

Speaking to GB News Ms Farrall, 56, who is dying from the mesothelioma said:

“I was diagnosed with mesothelioma two years ago. I was told it’s terminal lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure, something which I didn’t think I’d ever gone through.

“I was told to probably have about nine to 12 months to live. My diagnosis came after six months of investigations, being treated for post COVID infections. I was coughing and breathless. I had fluid on the lung, which was drained three times – all classic symptoms of mesothelioma, as I know now.

“When I asked why it had taken so long to diagnose despite these classic symptoms, I was told by my consultant that they weren’t looking for it with me. I was a 56 year old female in previous good health, and I didn’t fit the demographic.

“So asbestos was banned in 1999 but it still fills our schools and hospitals, our leisure centres and our shopping centres. As these buildings deteriorate, the risk of asbestos exposure will increase.

“It’s the scourge of modern society. It’s a national scandal, and we’ve all been hoodwinked into thinking that because it’s banned, it’s safe.

“I had a career in pharmacy for 25 years. My exposure came from just going to work in a high street pharmacy.

“For decades, government policy has been to leave it in situ, box it off, paint it over until it’s too late. We need a central register of where the asbestos is and a programme to remove it.

“There’s a long road. At the moment, the government policy is just to leave it there. I’d love to see change. I hope I can leave that as my legacy. That’s what I would love to happen, and I really hope it does happen.

“I’ve made it a bit of a mission to raise awareness and raise funds for research into mesothelioma. All I did was go to work and it shouldn’t be happening. My life is kind of on fast forward now.

“Some people like to sit in a corner and maybe dwell on it. My life’s on a fast forward. I wanted to see my son get married, I want to see certain parts of the world.

“A lot of people [with mesothelioma] tend to have problems going uphill, whereas some people can walk on a flat. If you’re breathless going uphill, and just the severity of it and if it keeps on, just persevere. My GP, all he wanted to do was give me antibiotics for a post COVID infection, just persevere.”

Cancer, Charity Events, Events, FInance

Maggie’s and Swansea Building Society Host 5th Anniversary Celebration for Cancer Support in Cardiff

Maggie’s Cancer Charity and Swansea Building Society are collaborating to host a memorable event commemorating the 5th anniversary of the Maggie’s Centre opening in Cardiff. The exciting 5th Birthday Ball will be held on May 17th at Dyffryn Springs near Wenvoe, bringing together supporters and beneficiaries for an evening of reflection and hope.

Swansea Building Society has pledged its support as the event sponsor, continuing its steadfast commitment to Maggie’s as its official charity for the third consecutive year.

Since its inception, Maggie’s Cardiff has provided invaluable support to over a thousand visitors each month, offering practical, emotional, and social assistance to individuals and families navigating the challenges of cancer.

The centre, situated in Velindre Road, Whitchurch, works in harmony with conventional cancer therapies, offering a nurturing environment where visitors can access support, information, and practical advice. From financial and benefits guidance to complementary therapies and nutrition workshops, Maggie’s Cardiff plays a pivotal role in enhancing the quality of life for those affected by cancer.

Supporting the charity over recent years, Swansea Building Society has organised a diverse range of successful fundraising activities, including dress-down days, raffles, and sponsored events like dog walks and open water swimming. These initiatives have resulted in an impressive cumulative fundraising total exceeding £60,000, providing vital resources to empower Maggie’s in delivering its essential services.

Richard Miles, Area Manager / Head of Savings & Marketing, Swansea Building Society, said:

“As proud sponsors of Maggie’s for the third consecutive year, Swansea Building Society is honoured to support such a vital cause. Our ongoing commitment to Maggie’s reflects our dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by cancer. We are delighted to be part of the 5th Birthday Ball celebration and look forward to continuing our partnership with Maggie’s to ensure their important work can thrive for years to come.”

Rachael Davies, Fundraising Manager at Maggie’s, added:

“We’re incredibly grateful that Swansea Building Society has sponsored our 5th Birthday Ball. Sponsorship of our events is so important, and we can’t thank everyone at Swansea Building Society enough.”

Cancer, Charity & CSR, Children and Childcare, News

South London family supports Children with Cancer UK following son’s diagnosis

A family from South London is supporting leading childhood cancer charity, Children with Cancer UK, to help raise awareness following son Stanley’s cancer diagnosis.

Stanley Thompson, from Welling, London, was diagnosed with low-risk neuroblastoma,  a type of cancer that develops in early nerve cells, in December 2022, when he was just one-year-old.

One week before his first birthday, Stanley’s parents, Victoria and Bryan, noticed that Stanley was showing signs of mobility issues. After being advised that it could be a viral infection and his mobility continued to decline, Victoria and Bryan took Stanley to the hospital where he spent first birthday having tests.

An MRI detected a tumour on Stanley’s spine and within 12 hours, Stanley underwent surgery to relieve some of the pressure on his spine and was diagnosed with low-risk neuroblastoma.

Victoria comments: “You never believe any child, let alone your child, will be diagnosed with cancer. Our whole world was turned upside down when we heard that our little boy had been diagnosed with cancer just one day after his first birthday. Stanley’s diagnosis all happened so quickly, which has been incredibly hard to process, but for somebody so little, he has shown more strength and resilience than any person we know.”

Neuroblastoma is a cancer which develops from nerve cells, called neural crest cells, which are involved in the development of the nervous system and other tissues. It mostly affects babies and children under the age of five, and around 100 children per year are diagnosed in the UK.

After four intense rounds of chemotherapy and additional surgery to have his central line removed, Stanley rang the end of treatment bell in June 2023 Stanley will continue to have MRIs every three months to monitor his health.

Children with Cancer UK is sharing the inspiring story of Stanley as part of its new awareness feature on neuroblastoma.

The charity’s ‘12 Groups of Cancer’ campaign which launched earlier this year is a new series of short films which aim to help raise awareness and understanding of the 12 groups of childhood and young adult cancer types. The videos give a unique insight into the cancer type, and the information and support parents need when their child has been diagnosed.

Victoria continues: “Stanley has been through so much and we’re incredibly proud of how strong he’s been and the recovery he has made. Since having his central line removed, Stanley is now able to enjoy all the things a little boy should be able to like swimming and is now able to attend nursery which he loves.

“As a family, we continue to worry every day and will always pray for positive news when we visit the hospital every few months. We’re sharing our story in the hope that it raises awareness and the understanding of childhood cancer, and highlights the importance of new scientific research to help beat this devastating disease.”

Children with Cancer UK is one of the leading national children’s charities working towards a world where every child survives cancer.

Christiana Ogunbote, Head of Research at Children with Cancer UK, added: “We would like to thank Stanley’s family for sharing their inspirational story, and helping us to increase understanding of the profound impact it can have on young people and their families.

“As a charity, it’s our mission to fund vital research into cancers affecting children and young adults, support families and raise awareness. Our new 12 Groups of Cancer films are an important part of our ongoing awareness work, and we hope they help parents feel better prepared and informed during their child’s cancer journey.”

Survival rates for children’s cancers are improving. Fifty years ago, three-quarters of children diagnosed with cancer did not survive; today more than 8 in 10 children diagnosed with cancer in the UK survive. However, around 4,200 children and young adults are diagnosed with cancer each year in the UK, and cancer is one of the leading causes of death for young people.

To watch Children with Cancer UK’s ’12 Groups of Cancer’ campaign film on neuroblastoma, visit Children with Cancer UK – YouTube

For more information about Children with Cancer UK, go to www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk

Cancer, Healthcare, News

Children with Cancer UK supports new siblings programme from Beads of Courage UK

Leading childhood cancer charity, Children with Cancer UK, is supporting the Beads of Courage UK Siblings Programme, which will provide help and guidance for children whose siblings have been diagnosed with cancer.

Children with Cancer UK is supporting the new Siblings Programme, which launches this month, as part of its five year partnership with Beads of Courage UK.

Beads of Courage UK has supported over 14,000 children and families across the UK following the diagnosis of a serious, chronic, or life-threatening illness. Its new Siblings Programme is designed to support children whose siblings are going through cancer treatment, and give them the courage to cope with challenging situations.

The pilot scheme of the Siblings Programme will launch in the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust in the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital and Sussex NHS Foundation Trust this March, and will roll out to further hospitals across the UK over the next year.

The scheme has launched with the support of ambassador Isabel Cork, aged 10 from Hampshire. In a special film, Isabel and her mum Sarah explain how the Siblings Programme has helped Isabel during her brother Thomas’ cancer treatment, allowing her to feel supported and understood. Thomas was diagnosed with a rare cancer type in October 2020.

Amar Naher, CEO Children with Cancer UK, said:

“We’re so pleased to support this important programme from Beads of Courage UK as part of our ongoing partnership. When a family receives the diagnosis that one of their children has cancer, their siblings can often feel like they have become less of a focus. The Siblings Programme is designed to give those children the support they need and remind them of their important role within the family, and how they can be a part of their sibling’s cancer journey.

“The Beads of Courage packs provide vital mental health support for children as they navigate the challenges of a cancer diagnosis and we’re delighted that the programme is now extended to siblings, so that every young person can be given the hope, guidance and encouragement they need during such a difficult and confusing time.”

Children taking part in the Siblings Programme will receive a Beads of Courage pack with each bead representing a powerful animal, alongside a collection of stories, helping the child to process and communicate their feelings in their own way – either on a one-to-one basis with a parent or as a shared activity with their sibling.

Once a sibling has been enrolled on the programme, there will be opportunities to participate in quarterly bead challenges to accrue an extra bead, so keep an eye out on the Beads of Courage UK Facebook page for such events. Each extra bead represents key milestones including birthdays, events and completing treatment such as chemotherapy and captures the moments they have shared together.

John Drummond, co-founder of Beads of Courage UK, said:

“Our goal is to shine a light on the childhood trauma that often impacts the siblings of a child diagnosed with cancer. Through our new Siblings Programme, we hope that we can support the mental health and wellbeing of every young cancer patient and their sibling, one bead at a time. Together with Children with Cancer UK, our aim is to give every young brother or sister the courage they need to move forward, and the tools to help them thrive.”

Children with Cancer UK is the leading national children’s charity working towards a world where every child survives cancer.

Amar Naher adds:

“As a charity, it’s our mission to fund vital scientific research into the causes of cancer, support families and raise awareness. Our continued partnership with Beads of Courage UK will help us to support thousands of young children and their families in hospitals and oncology wards across the UK, and we’re so proud to work together on this important initiative.”

Survival rates for children’s cancers are improving. Fifty years ago, three-quarters of children diagnosed with cancer died; today more than 8 in 10 children diagnosed with cancer in the UK survive. However, with around 4,200 new cases each year in the UK, it is still one of the leading causes of death for children and young people.

To watch the Children with Cancer and Beads of Courage UK campaign film, featuring Isabel’s story, visit: Beads of Courage UK | Siblings Programme | Children with Cancer UK

For more information about Children with Cancer UK, go to www.childrenwithcancer.org.uk and to find out about Beads of Courage UK, visit www.beadsofcourageuk.org