Editor’s note…

Welcome to the 2009 International edition of Contact. The aim of this issue is to raise awareness of children’s cancer around the world and support the aims of International Childhood Cancer Day on February 15th.

Articles have again reached us from around the globe this year… in fact there is so much going on in the world of childhood cancer that we’ve included a special two-page spread on pages 4-5. The obvious commitment of so many people to improve the outlook for children with cancer never ceases to amaze and humble me.

However, we have also had very sad news this year – the childhood cancer community lost one of its greatest supporters, Geoff Thaxter, just a few months ago. Geoff and his family’s determination to help all children with cancer, after losing their own daughter Lisa to the disease, is truly extraordinary - indeed, Contact would not exist without the support of the Lisa Thaxter Trust. Geoff is sorely missed by all who knew him, and the thoughts of all of us on the Editorial Board are with Gill and her family.

I hope you enjoy this edition of Contact. Your comments and ideas for future international issues are always welcome. If you wish to be added to the mailing list for future issues please email me.

Very best wishes for 2009 from Contact Editorial Board.

Anthea Martin, Editor
Email: info@cclg.org.uk