Helen's message | Christmas Star Appeal 2024

"Research is essential. We want to give young people every opportunity to participate in research, and it's donations to Weston Park Cancer Charity that make these vital clinical trials possible."

Tell us about your role and working with young cancer patients.

My role is focused on supporting teenagers and young adults affected by cancer, being treated at Weston Park Cancer Centre, by offering them the opportunity to take part in relevant research studies and clinical trials.

I love working with young people and I love working with families as well. It’s always been a real privilege.

Young people tend to be very interested in research – they are aware of advancements and clued up on what’s going on in the world. They’re also very generous, and many are keen to take part in studies and trials to help people in the future.

Why is it important for young people to consider taking part in clinical trials?

We know there is a link between taking part in clinical trials, improved outcomes and improved quality of life so we speak to young people about the opportunity taking part in studies affords, with the aim of improving outcomes for them.

Some of our young adult patients have rare and less common cancers, so it’s important we research those specifically.

Many of the treatments provided today have come from research study results. In the past, cancer patients used to have all their treatment within hospital, but nowadays many are outpatients.

Thanks to the research we've conducted here in Sheffield, we've been able to transition some treatments to outpatient care, allowing us to offer targeted therapies, newer medications, and infusions. This means lots of young cancer patients get to spend Christmas at home with their families, rather than in hospital.

Your message to people donating to Weston Park Cancer Charity this Christmas

Thank you for considering Weston Park Cancer Charity this Christmas. We need your help to fund vital research that leads to life-saving trials. With your support, we can give more families the chance to celebrate many Christmases together in the future.

“Our young people will be able to go on to live longer lives and have families of their own because of the studies and trials we undertake here at Weston Park.”

Cancer changes everything, but this Christmas so can you. Your generosity will help support clinical trials in Sheffield.