Ask the Expert: Tom Fletcher
Tom Fletcher, specialist paediatric exercise therapist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital
Tom Fletcher, specialist paediatric exercise therapist at Sheffield Children’s Hospital
Supershoes is a national charity that helps children and young people become active again after a cancer diagnosis. Its founder and CEO, Sarah White, tells us how it provides young patients with a pair of specially crafted shoes designed to encourage them to move.
Cyclists Fighting Cancer (CFC) supports children and young people living with and beyond cancer in the UK by giving them new, lightweight bikes, specially adapted trikes and cycling equipment. Liz Pharoah, CFC trustee and cancer exercise specialist, tells us more.
‘Make a Move!’ is a dedicated sports and activities day organised for children and young people who have been treated for cancer and blood disorders, under the care of Bristol Children’s Hospital. Kate Millar, paediatric physiotherapist at Bristol Royal Hospital for Children, tells us more.
Kat Earley's son Cohen was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma, aged four. She writes about how staying active wherever possible played a crucial role in his wellbeing both during and after treatment.
Brainbow is a specialist rehabilitation service for children with brain tumours based at Addenbrooke’s Hospital in Cambridge. Becca Knowles, specialist paediatric physiotherapist, tells us about its pilot project employing a PE teacher within its hospital school.
Emma Cooper’s daughter Madeleine was diagnosed with a germ cell tumour aged four. She tells us how Madeleine’s love for gymnastics helped her both physically and mentally during treatment.
Jake Heasman was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was two years old, leaving him visually impaired. He tells us how his experiences of cancer helped drive him on to sporting success.
Dr Peter Wright, Hayley Marriott and Dr Alba Solera-Sanchez, researchers at Oxford Brookes University, explain the benefits of staying physically active during and after treatment and explore how we can work collaboratively to improve physical activity pathways and support for children and young people.