PROJECT TITLE: Twin-based models for more effective treatment of childhood leukaemia LEAD INVESTIGATOR: Professor Alex Thompson INSTITUTION: University of Nottingham AWARD: Approx. £95,000 (funded by The Little Princess Trust and administered by CCLG)
Andy Calvert’s daughter Keira was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2022 aged 14. Andy tells us how the Ellen MacArthur Cancer Trust has supported both her and her younger siblings, Hayley, Aden and Andrew, with their sailing and adventure trips.
Gill Thaxter's daughter, Lisa, was diagnosed with osteosarcoma when she was 10 years old in 1992 and sadly died aged 12. Here, Gill tells us about the impact this had on Lisa’s sister, Rebecca, and how communication has been key to supporting each other.
The Joshua Tree supports the whole family of a child or young person diagnosed with cancer, during and after treatment. Here, Rich Driffield, CEO at The Joshua Tree, explains why it recognises that brothers and sisters, like Phoebe, 23, whose teenage brother was diagnosed with cancer, need care, understanding and space too.
Jude Solley was diagnosed with mixed-phenotype acute leukaemia (MPAL) in 2021 aged 16. Now, 21, he explains how this caused him to struggle with body image issues, why he decided to reach out for help, and why he advises others to do the same as soon as possible.
Dr Nicola O'Donnell is a health psychologist and a researcher at the University of York. Here, she tells us about her research into the impact of retinoblastoma treatment on survivors’ body image and how her team is taking it forward to help those treated for other childhood cancers.
Dr Rebecca Mulholland is Senior Clinical Psychologist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital. Here, she explains how a child or young person might feel about changes to their appearance due to treatment, and how you can support them.
Kira Noble was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2014 aged 11. Now 22, she explains the impact hair loss had on her during treatment, and how her experiences have shaped her choice of career.
The North Star Cancer Collective is a system-wide movement, bringing together people and organisations to improve cancer care for children, young people and their families. Guided by evidence, the North Star Cancer Collective works across the system – not just within individual organisations – to create a better future.
