RM Magazine - Spring 2023

EMPOWERING PATIENTS

Dr Irene Chong on how MyMarsden enhances the hospital experience

Mentoring the next generation of cancer experts

How our genes hold the key to better treatments

CONTENTS

WELCOME

to the spring 2023 edition of RM, the magazine for our staff, patients, carers and Foundation Trust members.

This spring, we’ll be launching Connect – our new digital health record, powered by software provider Epic – which will replace many of our current paperand computer-based systems with a single electronic patient record system. Alongside this, we’re launching the MyMarsden patient portal and app, and you can read about how the portal will transform the way that patients communicate with the hospital on page 12.

At The Royal Marsden, we combine the latest technology with world-leading cancer experts to ensure patients receive the best treatment possible. On page 18, we hear how two of these consultants are sharing their knowledge by mentoring up-and-coming clinicians, so that patients everywhere can benefit from this expertise.

And on page 22, we showcase our groundbreaking work in genomics, which helps clinicians to personalise patients’ treatment and identify their risk of getting cancer again in the future.

I hope you enjoy this issue.

Dr Irene Chong, Consultant Clinical Oncologist

At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. And when people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That’s why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.

Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive, The Royal Marsden

All photographs taken at The Royal Marsden were shot in accordance with the infection control guidelines in effect at the time

WHAT’S HAPPENING AROUND THE ROYAL MARSDEN

A shining future

THIS SUMMER, the Oak Cancer Centre – the state-of-the-art research and treatment facility at The Royal Marsden in Sutton, built thanks to funding from supporters of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity – will open its doors to patients. The centre will help us diagnose more cancers at an earlier stage and improve the patient experience – with floor-to-ceiling windows, it has been designed to be a bright, peaceful environment for our patients. Inside, the Kuok Research Centre brings together more than 400 researchers under the same roof, enabling specialists in different cancer types to collaborate and share ideas, and helping us develop new treatments more quickly. The building will also provide our staff with the best facilities to conduct their lifesaving and innovative work, so they can transform the lives of cancer patients at The Royal Marsden, across the UK and beyond.

Breast cancer trials success

ROYAL MARSDEN EXPERTS presented positive results from two trials at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December.

Professor Nicholas Turner, Head of the The Royal Marsden Cancer Charityfunded Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research and Professor of Molecular Oncology at The Institute of Cancer Research, London, revealed results from the CAPItello-291 trial, showing that a new type of targeted medicine has remarkable benefits for patients with advanced breast cancer.

The drug capivasertib, when combined with hormone therapy, doubled the time it took for cancer to progress in people with advanced forms of hormonereceptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer.

Professor Stephen Johnston, Head of the Breast Unit, presented new data from the monarchE trial, which was led by The Royal Marsden. The results provided further evidence of the benefits of adding the targeted drug abemaciclib to standard hormone therapy in patients with high-risk HR+ early breast cancer.

A PATIENT’S PERSPECTIVE

“To be diagnosed with breast cancer again almost 20 years after my first diagnosis was a huge shock, but I felt reassured to be in the safe hands of The Royal Marsden.

“The results have been amazing. My future

is still uncertain, but I now have the confidence to live life to the full.

“I’ve felt healthy enough to travel in the UK and abroad, spend time with family and friends and keep fit through cycling and walking.”

Professor Nicholas Turner oversaw the CAPItello-291 trial

Linda Kelly, 65, patient on the CAPItello-291 trial

A PATIENT’S PERSPECTIVE

cancer patients could benefit from the two new studies

STUDY REVEALS SECRETS OF DRUG RESISTANCE

Two trials aim to tackle relapse with liquid biopsies

FIGURING OUT HOW liquid biopsies could be used to predict cancer’s return is the focus of two new studies at The Royal Marsden.

The TRAK-ER trial aims to detect the signs of relapse earlier in oestrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer patients by looking for circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) in the bloodstream.

Patients have a blood test every

What is a liquid biopsy?

A liquid biopsy involves analysing blood samples to detect small fragments of genetic material that tumours release into the bloodstream, known as circulating tumour DNA. A sample can tell clinicians at an earlier stage if a patient is relapsing and can identify genetic mutations that could open up new options for targeted therapy.

three months, for up to three years, and those identified as at risk of relapse will have their treatment altered to try to stop the disease coming back.

Professor Nicholas Turner, Head of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity-funded Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research and the Principal Investigator of the TRAK-ER trial, said: “The risk of relapse for ER+ breast cancer patients is spread out over many years after initial treatment. If the trial produces encouraging results, this could revolutionise how we treat these patients in the future.”

“Being part of something that may be able to give me forewarning of relapse is incredible. Anything that gives me a greater chance of being here for longer, and being well for longer, is amazing.”

Meanwhile, the TRACC part C study will look at whether liquid biopsies could help doctors decide whether to give chemotherapy to patients for stage 2 and 3 colorectal cancer. Testing for ctDNA following surgery can discover whether a patient still has minimal residual disease, and indicate whether or not they need further treatment.

Professor David Cunningham, Director of Clinical Research and the trial’s Chief Investigator, said: “Patients with high-risk colorectal cancer are often over-treated and can suffer long-term neurotoxicity from chemotherapy. This study will help us understand when we can avoid unnecessary chemotherapy for patients who have no disease detected following surgery.”

Want to know more?

To learn more about these trials and find out how to take part, please visit royalmarsden.nhs.uk/trak-er or royalmarsden.nhs.uk/tracc

Man Van heads out on

the road again

MEN IN NORTH and southwest London will benefit from a further 12 months of local health checks after the Man Van was awarded more than £500,000 in funding from NHS England.

The mobile health clinic was developed by The Royal Marsden, The Institute of Cancer Research, London, and RM Partners, and is supported by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. It aims to improve healthcare access for men over 45 who are less likely to receive regular health checks and are at risk of having prostate cancer diagnosed late, when it is more difficult to treat.

Launched last year, the Man Van has visited seven different locations across south London and given health checks to around 600 men. One was Olukayode Dada, 60, who was diagnosed with prostate cancer after using the service in May. He said:

“I think the Man Van is a very good idea. As it was local, it was easy for me to get checked and, if it hadn’t been for the van, I wouldn’t have known I have cancer.”

We now know more about how stomach cancers can dodge the effects of a new experimental treatment, thanks to a study led by The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR), which has furthered our understanding of drug resistance. Researchers found that stomach cancers can develop resistance to a new class of drugs called ATR inhibitors by switching off the activity of two key genes.

Dr Irene Chong, Consultant Clinical Oncologist, said: “We identified how genetic changes allow some stomach cancers to outmanoeuvre the effects of ATR inhibitors, an exciting treatment that may represent an important therapeutic option for these patients.

“This work could lead to a genetic test to predict which patients are most likely to respond to ATR inhibitors and help us overcome resistance through new combination treatments.”

The study was supported by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity and the National Institute for Health and Care Research Biomedical Research Centre at The Royal Marsden and the ICR.

Want to know more?

Visit royalmarsden.nhs.uk/man-van to find out more about the Man Van and how to book an appointment

Elaine Nangle, 41, stage 3 lobular breast cancer patient on the TRAK-ER trial

“This trial could revolutionise how we treat these patients”

LIQUID GOLD Breast and colorectal

GOING MOBILE A patient gets checked in the Man Van

LOCAL SERVICE A visit to the Man Van revealed Olukayode Dada’s cancer

NEW ADVANCES WITH ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE

ON THE BEAM

Dr Anna Kirby hopes the trial will lead to further radiotherapy options for patients

Volunteer voices

At The Royal Marsden, there are more than 425 volunteers who give up their time to support our staff and enhance the patient experience across the Trust. Let’s meet…

Using artificial intelligence (AI) to look at CT scans could help identify the risk of lung cancer returning, according to results from the OCTAPUS-AI study.

The trial, supported by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, used imaging and clinical data from more than 900 non-small-cell lung cancer patients to develop AI algorithms that predict relapse.

Dr Sumeet Hindocha, Clinical Oncology Specialist Registrar (above), said: “We found our model could more accurately identify which patients developed recurrence within two years of completing radiotherapy.

“While still at an early stage, this could mean clinicians will eventually be able to detect recurrence earlier in high-risk patients using this technology.”

Chief Investigator Dr Richard Lee, Consultant Physician in Respiratory Medicine and Early Diagnosis, added: “The Royal Marsden is leading the way in utilising AI technology to diagnose, detect and prevent cancer more effectively.”

First UK proton beam therapy trial for breast cancer begins

RESEARCHERS AT The Royal Marsden are leading the first UK trial of proton beam therapy for certain patients with breast cancer.

Proton beam therapy is a type of radiotherapy that uses protons rather than X-rays to treat cancer and can be targeted more precisely than standard radiotherapy.

The PARABLE trial, which began in January, will compare proton beam therapy with standard radiotherapy for patients who are at greater risk of long-term heart problems after radiotherapy treatment. It will look at whether proton beam therapy can deliver adequate doses

of radiation to breast tissue, while reducing unwanted doses to the heart.

Patients allocated to receive proton beam therapy will be treated at either The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester or University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Dr Anna Kirby, Consultant Clinical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden and the Breast Cancer Radiotherapy Team Lead at The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR), said:

“It has been a monumental collaborative effort between patient advocates and professionals working in breast cancer radiotherapy

research throughout the UK and beyond to develop and launch this trial.

“We hope that the PARABLE trial will help us to further personalise radiotherapy treatments and ensure that people can access the radiotherapy approach that is best for them, regardless of where they live.”

PARABLE is led by researchers at The Royal Marsden working with colleagues from the University of Cambridge and the ICR. It is funded by a National Institute for Health and Care Research and Medical Research Council partnership.

I started volunteering at The Royal Marsden in June last year. I joined as a discharge volunteer, supporting the patient discharge team and ward staff by helping to ensure inpatients who are heading home are discharged smoothly. But I’ve recently started an additional role as a volunteer for the Eat, Drink and Move campaign, which encourages patients to eat well, drink plenty of fluids and stay active.

Like many volunteers at The Royal Marsden, I’ve had family and friends who’ve been affected by cancer. So when I took early retirement,

I looked for opportunities to volunteer here as I wanted to help in any way that I could.

My role involves taking patients their meals, liaising between staff and patients about things like dietary requirements, talking to patients during their meal or helping them to eat or drink as needed. Another part of my role is encouraging patients

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

Teresa helps patients with meals and exercise

to move around. This can include showing them good places to have a quiet walk by themselves or keeping them company while they walk.

I particularly value how volunteers can help shape the role. It’s a new role, and we’ve received great training on what to look out for and how best to help patients. We’ve been encouraged to provide feedback so the programme can be adjusted if needed.

Some volunteers have been here for more than 20 years, which is truly amazing. There have been many highlights since I started, but one stands out in particular. The Royal Marsden recently welcomed therapy dogs into the hospital, and I was lucky enough to accompany a dog named Millie around the hospital. It was fantastic to see how much joy Millie brought to patients and staff.

The best thing about volunteering is that I have the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people –from the patients and their family and friends, to the hospital staff and other volunteers. I would really recommend it – come and join us!

Want to know more?

Visit royalmarsden.nhs.uk/ volunteering-royal-marsden

“I have the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people”

Teresa Barnard Eat, Drink and Move volunteer

IN BRIEF

education, and especially proud that we’ve reached our 20th anniversary.

Q Education has changed a lot over the past few years. How has the School adapted?

EONS recognition

Congratulations to Theresa Wiseman (above), Professor of Applied Health Research, who has received the 2022 European Oncology Nursing Society (EONS) Lifetime Achievement Award. A member of EONS’ Education Working Group, Professor Wiseman has made a huge contribution to nursing and cancer care through research, building capacity and education.

Audit awards

The 2022 Clinical Audit Competition recognised clinical audits and quality improvement projects that led to changes in services at The Royal Marsden.

First prize went to Dr Eirini Konstantinidou for her audit titled ‘Monitoring steroidinduced hyperglycaemia in cancer patients’.

Chelsea art show

The Chelsea Art Society will be holding its 74th Annual Show this summer. The exhibition, which takes place on 14-19 June in the Chelsea Old Town Hall, will comprise around 500 unique works of art. Part of the proceeds from the exhibition will be kindly donated to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Visit chelseaartsociety.org.uk for more details.

CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE 2022 AWARD WINNERS

A The COVID-19 pandemic had a big impact on us. We had to stop teaching in the classroom and quickly find ways to deliver learning content, live group sessions and assessments virtually. Once our academic staff returned from clinical practice, we redeveloped our programmes to ensure most of our courses could continue to be available online. We need to keep up with how education is evolving.

Q&A: THE ROYAL MARSDEN SCHOOL

healthcare professionals for two decades

Q What is The Royal Marsden School? Who can study there?

A The School was initially set up to provide cancer education for nurses at The Royal Marsden. Since then, the range of people coming to learn at the School has expanded to include allied health professionals and healthcare support staff – and not only those from The Royal Marsden, but also other NHS trusts, hospices, private hospitals and primary care settings across London, the UK and beyond.

Q What is unique about The Royal Marsden School?

A One of our unique selling points is that we have specialist clinical staff, scientists and researchers from all over the Trust teach with us. Quality education and the student experience are paramount here. Students really value that our teachers are experts in their field and their knowledge is up to date. I’m proud to lead an incredible team who are passionate about cancer care and

Q How do you see the School developing in the future?

A Currently, the School offers a range of academic courses at undergraduate and master’s level, enabling health and social care practitioners to achieve a cancer specialist qualification. But we’re continuing to expand the range of courses we offer, and I can see us offering doctorates in the future. A key objective is for the academic team to become more active in research, and we aim to deliver a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Applied to Clinical Practice by September this year. We’ll also be working closely with colleagues across the Trust to deliver more study days and seminars. I’m proud that we can share the expertise of The Royal Marsden with other hospitals.

Want to know more? Visit royalmarsdenschool. ac.uk to search courses

THE BEST OF THE BEST Jo

Pursuing Excellence

• Jo Vick, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Lung Unit

• Catherine O’Mara, Senior PR and Communications Manager, Marketing and Communications

• Interventional Radiology Research Unit

• Medical Day Unit, Chelsea

Working Collaboratively

• Dr Roberta Bowie, Clinical Psychologist, Paediatric and Teenage Psychological Support

• Julie Codet-Boisse, Transformation Programme Manager, Transformation team

• Lung Team

• Acute Oncology Service Advanced Nurse Practitioner Team, Private Patients and NHS

Pioneering Change

• Dr Ed Johnston, Locum Consultant Cancer Imaging and Intervention, Interventional Radiology

Celebrating staff success

WE CELEBRATED THE remarkable accomplishments of our incredible staff at the 2022 Staff Achievement Awards in December.

Individuals and teams from across the Trust were nominated in the categories of Pursuing Excellence, Working Collaboratively, Pioneering Change and Showing Kindness. We recognised staff for going the extra mile to transform services, raising the profile and reputation of The Royal Marsden, working together to deliver the best patient care and driving innovation, and demonstrating extraordinary kindness and compassion.

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Consultant Dietitian Dr Clare Shaw, who recently retired following a career at The Royal Marsden of more than 35 years. She received the award in recognition of her work in embedding evidencebased nutrition and dietetics practice across the Trust.

Dame Cally Palmer, Chief Executive, said: “The Staff Achievement Awards are a highlight of The Royal Marsden’s calendar and a wonderful opportunity to recognise colleagues who have gone above and beyond to make an outstanding contribution to their teams and to patient care.”

• Sarah Edwards, Sustainability and Waste Manager, Facilities

• Urology Rapid Diagnostic/ Man Van team

• Monica Ritco-Vonsovici, NIHR BRC Manager, Research and Development

Showing Kindness

• Nicola Percival, Staff Nurse, Medical Day Unit

• Karen Holt, Befriending Co-ordinator, Volunteer Services

• Play House Day Nursery

• West Wing Clinical Research Centre

Lifetime Achievement Award

• Dr Clare Shaw, Consultant Dietitian, Therapy Services

As The Royal Marsden School turns 20, Dr Rebecca Verity, the School’s Director, explains how it has helped to share our cancer knowledge and expertise with

“Quality education and the student experience are paramount. Our teachers are experts in their field”

Vick (above left), Dr Clare Shaw (above) and the Interventional Radiology Research Unit team (left)

WE’RE BETTER CONNECTED

“As a consultant at The Royal Marsden, I know from a professional capacity just how important information about cancer care is for a patient. But I’ve also been a patient here myself, which gives me the perspective to see things from both sides.

“I’ve experienced how it feels to sit in a consulting room and wait for life-changing results (doctors aren’t allowed to check our own test results). I’ve also seen how some of that anxiety can be alleviated with great care and timely communication. That’s why it was so important to me to be involved in the conversation about MyMarsden, and how we use it to support our patients through their care.

“Studies in Sweden – where access to your own medical data is more common – found that many patients felt reassured that they could see their data and test results at any time.

This was the case even when the results weren’t necessarily good news. So we’ve reflected on how we can better empower patients with their own data and provide quicker access to test results.

“Once we’ve launched, we hope to do some research of our own. We’ll speak to patients about how they feel about MyMarsden, what more we can do to support them with the right tools, and how we can make sure their experience is as good as it could possibly be.”

THIS SPRING, we’re going live on our programme to improve the technology we use at the Trust. We’re launching an electronic patient record system called Connect, which will revolutionise the way we deliver patient care. As part of this, we’re also introducing a new patient portal called MyMarsden, which will transform the way patients can engage with our services and how they experience their care. Using their smartphone, tablet or computer, patients can see their Royal Marsden health information – from medications and appointments to letters and after-visit summaries – in one place. They will also be able to see their routine test results, message their healthcare team and invite family members or carers to have access to their health records – among many other features.

Three people working to develop the new system tell us how it will empower patients and enhance their Royal Marsden experience.

Contributor: Jo McGillivray, DHR Communications and Marketing Lead

“My role is to have an overview of all the things that can have an impact on the experience of patients at The Royal Marsden. I think MyMarsden will have an enormous impact – and a positive one at that!

“Those of us who already use smartphones and tech are so used to having information instantly available. Whether it’s the weather or train schedules, every aspect of life now is immediately accessible – we have everything we need in our pockets. MyMarsden will

help to make health information just as accessible and immediate – which is more important than ever, given how central cancer treatment is to a patient’s life.

“Patients often say they get ‘brain wipe’ in a consultation, where the anxiety of the situation means they don’t really take in what they’re told. This app means that, instead of having to carry a notebook, scribble down notes during a consultation and decipher handwriting, patients will have that information available online and on their phone to refer to wherever and whenever they need it, which will make a world of difference. That alone will be a real benefit to a patient’s experience.”

Consultant

As the Connect Digital Health Record goes live, we’re also launching the MyMarsden portal and app to put patients’ health information at their fingertips

“With MyMarsden, we can empower patients with their data and provide quicker access to test results”

“I think MyMarsden will have an enormous impact... It will help to make health information accessible and immediate”

Dr Natalie Doyle Nurse Director –Patient Experience

Dr Irene Chong

Clinical Oncologist and Royal Marsden patient

Diana King

Patient and member of the Patient and Carer Advisory Group

“I’ve been a patient at The Royal Marsden since 2018, and I joined the Patient and Carer Advisory Group to make a difference and help to improve the patient experience. Through that, I’ve been involved in the development of MyMarsden.

“For a patient portal like this to be a success, I believe it needs to be built not just for patients,

“MyMarsden will

but with patients. My role has been to champion the patient and carer perspective, and a fundamental element of this is to appreciate that all patients are different. So I’m delighted that many of the decisions about MyMarsden have taken my contributions into account and that the portal has been coproduced by patients and staff.

“There are so many possibilities with MyMarsden. It can help empower us to have more control over our treatment and care, to be more informed, and to feel less frustrated and anxious.

“However, it’s essential that there are other options available for patients as well. It’s important that MyMarsden improves and adds to, not replaces, the current communication systems and personal contact that is so vital to a patient’s care and wellbeing.

“Overall, I think MyMarsden is a great way to help make access to patient information more timely, clearer, quicker and simpler. Living with a cancer diagnosis is lifechanging and scary. Anything that can reassure patients and reduce the stress is a big step in the right direction.” RM

Introducing MyMarsden

Menu

Click on the menu button to find your way around the MyMarsden app

How to get started

1 Sign up for an account at mymarsden.rmh.nhs.uk and click on ‘sign up now’.

2 Complete your details to register for an account.

Medication

See a list of your current medications

3 You can either access MyMarsden online or download the app.

Visits

A full list of your upcoming and past appointments. Click on the appointment to read a short after-visit summary

Messages

Send a direct message to your healthcare team, and even send photos securely and confidentially

You

Test results

You can see all of your test results here. Some will be automatically available, and others will appear after you have discussed them with your healthcare team

Download the app Search for myChart (created by Epic Systems Corporation) in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store, or scan the QR code below for your device.

Your health information will be visible once MyMarsden goes live on 17 March.

Scan below to download for Apple devices

Newsfeed

Your newsfeed will show your latest MyMarsden updates and activities so you can see at a glance whether you’ve received any new messages, test results or appointments

Scan below to download for Android devices

The MyMarsden App is powered by MyChart® licensed from Epic Systems Corporation, © 1999–2023.

A DAY IN THE LIFE OF PAOLA BEDOYA HEALTHCARE ASSISTANT

WHEN I FIRST joined The Royal Marsden two years ago, I was working on McElwain Ward in the Oak Cancer Centre for Children and Young People, which I enjoyed a lot. I initially joined as bank staff and was later offered a full-time position, which was an amazing opportunity for me.

I now work as a Healthcare Assistant in the Outpatients Department of our Sutton site five days a week, which has clinics for new patients, those receiving treatment and those needing follow-up. Most days, I start my work at 8am or 9am, depending on my shift pattern. I’ll then join our morning team meeting, which includes the matron, sisters and the nurse-in-charge. This is when we’re allocated different locations and tasks for that day.

Keeping busy

My schedule can vary a lot, but I like to help where I’m needed and keep busy. I can be cleaning,

making sure areas are tidy and fully stocked with the right equipment, or bringing patients from the waiting area to their doctor for appointments.

I also complete tasks like taking patients’ blood samples and carrying out observations, such as doing an electrocardiogram (ECG) or taking blood pressure readings. I move around the department a lot throughout the day, but it means I get to know the hospital very well, and the variety makes my role really enjoyable. I’ve definitely gained

further skills during my time working in Outpatients.

I’m originally from Colombia and, as I speak Spanish, I’ve also had times when I’ve been able to help with translation for some of our patients. I love how we

meet people from around the world – I’ve learned so much about different cultures.

A duty to help

The best part about my job at The Royal Marsden is being able to help people – anticipating what they need without them having to ask. It’s really satisfying when you see that patients who you’ve got to know are now recovering, thanks to the hard work of staff at the hospital, and I’m proud of the excellent care we provide in Outpatients.

VARIED ROLE In Outpatients, Paola’s duties include taking patients’ blood samples and carrying out observations

I also really like my team. Everyone has their own duties, but we have autonomy in each of our roles.

I’m so excited to be moving into the Oak Cancer Centre when it opens this year in Sutton. The building looks amazing. I think it will be very helpful for my colleagues and I to be in the same space as other teams – we’ll be in closer contact with the Medical Day Unit, for example. I think we’ll learn a lot more about how other departments work, which helps everyone. RM

“It’s satisfying when you see that patients you’ve got to know are now recovering”

VOICES OF EXPERIENCE

Our expert consultants are helping to shape the next generation by mentoring up-andcoming clinicians at The Royal Marsden. We catch up with two mentors and their mentees to reveal all

Dr John Hardman has been mentored by Professor Vinidh Paleri for four years. During this time, he has learned to carry out robotic surgery procedures and complex research projects.

How did you initially start working together?

When I first came to the hospital in 2017, I was hoping to become an ear surgeon and intended to train here for just a year. However, I then met Professor Paleri and ended up staying to complete a PhD.

Head and neck cancer is a challenging disease to treat surgically as the anatomy is so complex. Speaking and eating, which are fundamental to enjoying life, can be affected too. But robotic surgery has been a game-changer and I wanted to learn more about this innovative technique.

I was delighted John saw the light and decided to stay. For me, it’s important to take time to pass on knowledge so the next generation can build on it. I was mentored, and it taught me how to care for patients and think critically, too.

What have you learned from the experience?

Not only has Vin helped me improve clinically, from the way I interact with patients to my surgical skills, but I’ve also been involved in exciting research projects.

I was the first author on the global RECUT study, which looked at whether transoral robotic surgery – a technique pioneered in the UK by Vin – can improve survival and quality of life for recurrent head and neck cancer patients. This experience taught me to be aspirational in my research goals and how much can be achieved from international collaboration.

VP I have a lot of management and clinical commitments, and fellows like John are instrumental in helping to get things done. He helped me to set up the International Centre for Recurrent Head and Neck Cancer, funded by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity, which is a hugely ambitious project focused on improving outcomes for this patient group globally, as well as EVEREST-HN, which is aiming to transform the NHS referral pathway for people with suspected head and neck cancer. I’ve also learned a lot from John. He is more skilled with IT and programming, which has led to projects becoming more efficient.

RM What’s next?

JH I’ve now returned to complete my clinical training and, after a fellowship in Australia, I should start as a consultant in 2025.

VP Thanks to funding from the Charity, I have four new Clinical Research Fellows starting soon. I’m looking forward to helping them develop.

“It’s important to take time to pass on knowledge”

After joining The Royal Marsden near the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr Justin Mencel supported Dr Naureen Starling to launch a study of liquid biopsies at lightning speed.

RM How did you work together during this challenging time?

NS At the start of the pandemic, [our ability to perform] invasive biopsies was impacted due to their risk of spreading COVID-19 and [reduced] diagnostic capacity. So we developed the PREVAIL trial to see if liquid biopsies, which are tests that can detect cancer in the blood, could be used as a non-invasive alternative.

Justin was an absolute machine and helped me to launch the study within a few weeks, thanks to funding from The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. It normally takes at least six months to get a pilot study off the ground, but we needed to work fast to keep patients safe.

RM Can you explain how your relationship works?

JM Naureen has always treated me as an equal – whenever she gives me feedback, she is honest and constructive. This has really helped me to learn and boosted my confidence.

NS It helps that Justin is fun to be around and we get along very well. It’s wonderful to see how our fellows develop and to support them in achieving their goals.

Justin will leave a great legacy here too, as we secured funding last year to expand and continue PREVAIL. In the future, we hope this research will help reduce the need for repeated investigations for high-risk patients, speed up cancer diagnosis and identify patients for targeted drug treatments.

RM How will you use what you’ve learned from this experience in the future?

JM I’m taking on a consultant role at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, specialising in hepatobiliary cancers, and I was able to draw on so much that I learned here to secure the position. I’m now ready to set up some trials independently, and I hope to continue researching liquid biopsies to ensure that patients are treated with increasingly precise medicines.

JM Before I joined The Royal Marsden, I had trained as an oncologist, but I didn’t have much research experience. Naureen started me off with clinical work and gradually incorporated more research, which then accelerated with PREVAIL.

My skills developed rapidly as I learned to create research protocols, present to ethics committees and how to negotiate and liaise with [the pharmaceutical] industry. You can’t learn this from reading textbooks, so having the opportunity to be mentored by Naureen, who is so well renowned, has been invaluable.

Dr Jaishree Bhosle Director of Medical Education

“There is a misconception that medicine has a highly structured career path but, once you’ve trained, there are many different directions you can go in.

“Becoming a consultant means much more autonomy. Some decide to spend more time doing research, education or management, while many continue to focus on clinical work, too.

“Mentoring supports people in making the transition from junior to senior clinician, helping them to work out what’s right for them and achieve what they want to achieve.

“It’s also beneficial to have someone with more experience as a sounding board, who can provide advice and support. For example, we all face setbacks at work, such as having a grant application declined, and having someone who has been there to provide encouragement is invaluable.”

“It’s wonderful to see how our fellows develop and to support them”

Dr Justin Mencel Clinical Research Fellow

Dr Naureen Starling Consultant Medical Oncologist specialising in gastrointestinal (GI) cancers

WHY MENTORING IS SO IMPORTANT

IT’S ALL IN OUR GENES

GENOMIC TESTING IS a crucial tool in our efforts to understand cancer better. It enables us to identify genetic changes in individual cancers, which means we can offer improved, personalised treatments to our patients. Inherited genetic changes, for example, are passed down to a person from one of their parents, giving them an increased risk of developing certain cancers. For people who already have cancer, their genes can also determine how

the disease will behave and which treatment they will respond to best.

At The Royal Marsden, this work is led by our Cancer Genetics Unit, which aims to promote cancer prevention and early detection, and help with decisions about managing the disease. Our expert consultants and genetic counsellors assess a patient’s personal and family history of cancer to decide whether it is likely that there is a hereditary cause. This assessment is used to decide whether a genetic test might help an individual to clarify their own risk or make recommendations about additional screening.

Genomics also includes somatic testing, which looks for changes in the genes of existing cancer cells. The results can then be used to plan treatment, including the use of targeted personalised therapy and immunotherapy. This takes place in the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Centre for Molecular Pathology (CMP) in Sutton, which houses researchers from The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR).

A PATIENT’S PERSPECTIVE

Jennette Higgs, 61, breast cancer patient

“I was diagnosed with breast cancer 10 years ago. Following treatment, I joined the BOCS gene-testing study at The Royal Marsden and discovered I had the BRCA2 gene mutation.

“These results meant my family were eligible to be tested, too. My sister and I have now had further reconstructive surgery to reduce our risk of getting breast cancer again in the future. “Knowing we have the gene has made such a difference to me and my family. It also means my sons will be monitored for prostate cancer, as the BRCA2 mutation means their risk of getting the disease is higher.”

Calculating risk

Dr Angela George, Consultant Medical Oncologist and Consultant in Oncogenetics, leads The Royal Marsden’s teams across both areas. She is also Clinical Director of Genomics – in a joint role alongside Professor Michael Hubank – and undertakes testing for inherited cancer syndromes in her oncogenetics practice.

“For each different cancer type, there are specific criteria as to who is offered testing to identify whether they have an inherited cancer gene,” Dr George says. “These include any woman under 40 with breast cancer

and patients with bowel cancer who have changes in their tumour that may indicate an inherited alteration. Women with ovarian cancer are offered testing for the BRCA gene alteration.

“Somatic testing for solid tumours and blood cancers is now delivered through a national testing network of seven Genomic Laboratory Hubs [GLHs]. The Royal Marsden is part of the North Thames GLH.”

Test for success

As Clinical Lead for the Cancer Genetics Unit and a Consultant

Our groundbreaking work in genomics helps us identify key genetic changes that can shape patients’ treatment and reveal their risk of getting cancer again in the future

“For each cancer type, there are criteria as to who is offered testing”

TEAM LEADER

Dr Angela George

GENE GENIES Colleagues at The Royal Marsden, including Professor Michael Hubank (above), are making great advances in genomic testing

Medical Oncologist in the Breast Unit, Dr Zoe Kemp is passionate about increasing access to genetic testing in breast cancer patients.

“The best part of my job is where my roles intersect, enabling me to use patients’ genetic information to inform their treatment choices and prevent new cancers,” she says.

“I also delivered the Mainstreaming Cancer Genetics programme in the Breast Unit, where non-genetic clinicians were trained to ask patients’ consent for genetic testing in surgical and oncological clinics.”

Consultant Clinical Geneticist Dr Terri McVeigh takes care of Royal Marsden patients who have a suspected or confirmed hereditary predisposition to cancer, as well as looking after their at-risk relatives.

“My role is always evolving, as genomic profiling becomes broader and more readily accessible,” she says. “I am more likely to care for patients who have already received results from genetic testing, but these can be complex, and we need to decide the next steps to take.

“The rarity of some disorders and inherent complexity of genomic results means that collaboration with colleagues is essential. It’s a privilege to work with, and learn from, expert colleagues working across a variety of tumour types.”

A molecular level

Thanks to the transformative impact of genomics, cancers are increasingly treated due to their genetic changes.

“When looking for molecular or genetic changes, we’re looking for what drives the cancer to grow and spread,” says Dr George. “And if you can turn that driver off, that’s the most effective way to treat that specific cancer. The real benefit is that you can make sure patients are getting the treatment that is most likely to work for them.”

The prospect of personalising treatment is why Professor Hubank, Director of Clinical Genomics (Research) at The Royal Marsden and Scientific Director of the NHS

HELPED ME GET THROUGH IT

abdomen surgery, an orchidectomy [removal of a testicle], stem cell transplants and CyberKnife radiotherapy to precisely target the spread in my brain.

I’m under the care of Dr Alison Reid, Professor Robert Huddart and Dr Liam Welsh. Together, they’re an unbeatable combo who have definitely saved my life. I’ve gone from being seriously ill to now being in a monitoring phase, on no active cancer treatment.

I feel so lucky. I’m riding such an optimistic wave of rejuvenation and want to share my story, so I’m writing a book about my rollercoaster cancer journey.

Dr Alison Reid Consultant Medical Oncologist

“Testicular cancer, even when it has spread, usually responds very well to cisplatin-based chemotherapy. But for some patients, like Alastair, the cancer can prove challenging to treat.

Genomics or genetics?

England North London Genomic Laboratory Hub, is so positive about the potential of genomics. “It’s a very exciting part of oncology,” he says. “My ideal is that, in the future, our tests will guide the treatment of every cancer patient.” RM

Want to know more?

Read more about our Clinical Genomics service at royalmarsden. nhs.uk/royal-marsden-clinicalgenomics-service

Genomics is the study of a person’s complete set of genetic information – the genome – including genes and DNA. It looks at how this information interacts and how that affects us. Genetics looks at how a single gene is passed down through generations and how variations in this gene may influence health conditions such as cancer.

We can ‘read’ a genome more accurately and quickly than ever before, meaning we have more opportunities to use this information to help our patients.

CANCER REALLY CAN sneak up on you, with no warning at all.

In November 2019, I was diagnosed with stage 4 testicular germ-cell cancer. I was 29. I was told that I had a tumour at the back of my abdomen and that the cancer had spread to my liver, both lungs and my brain. I happen to be a specialist dietitian in oncology, so I was treating and supporting patients

with cancer way before my diagnosis. But going through it myself has given me a huge amount of insight and a unique perspective. I’ve seen it as a challenge rather than an illness. Within 24 hours of my diagnosis, I was at The Royal Marsden starting treatment.

I’ve since had around 230 infusions of chemotherapy, two brain operations, open

It’s incredible to think about how far cancer research has progressed. Walking past the Oak Cancer Centre in Sutton with my dog Pluto makes me wonder what miracles will be happening in there in the future.

The love I have for the staff at The Royal Marsden is difficult to put into words. Being treated somewhere with such worldrenowned specialists is so reassuring. Without this hospital, I don’t think I’d still be here. RM

Want to know more?

Find Alastair on Instagram @alastairlynn

“Cancer is unique to every individual, which is why it was so important for our multidisciplinary team to develop a personalised treatment plan for Alastair. Specialists from multiple teams meet weekly to ensure that patients receive the best care at every stage of their treatment.

“Alastair meets every challenge with a positive attitude. He has been a support to other patients, and his personal motivation to live as well as he can has been instrumental in his tolerance of the intensive therapy he has received.”

“Patients are getting the treatment that is most likely to work for them”

Dr Zoe Kemp

Alastair Lynn, 32, testicular cancer patient

“I feel so lucky.

I’m riding such an optimistic wave of rejuvenation”

SEEING MY CANCER AS A CHALLENGE RATHER THAN AN ILLNESS

Every gift matters

BON ANNIVERSAIRE, LE CURE!

THIS YEAR MARKS the 10th year that Le Cure has supported The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. Every August, an intrepid band of cyclists known as ‘Curistas’ take on Le Cure, a cycling challenge that involves tackling some of the Tour de France’s toughest Alpine climbs to raise money for breast cancer research at The Royal Marsden. The pioneering research aims to

transform the lives of breast cancer patients by changing clinical practice and improving treatment options.

The incredible efforts of these cyclists have raised more than £2.4 million since their first ride took place in 2014, including £400,000 last year.

Among those who took part in the 2022 ride were The Royal Marsden’s Professor Nicholas Turner, Head of the Charity-

March with us again this May

THERE’S STILL TIME to sign up for the 2023 Banham Marsden

March and join the supporters walking five or 15 miles between our Chelsea and Sutton hospital sites on Sunday 14 May.

The Banham Marsden March at Home also returns, giving walkers the chance to take on the challenge in their local area. We are thrilled that our event sponsor, Banham, has extended

Picture this...

funded Ralph Lauren Centre for Breast Cancer Research, and Professor Ian Smith, Consultant Medical Oncologist in the Breast Unit.

We are extremely grateful to all the Curistas for their support and we look forward to following their efforts once again in 2023.

Want to know more?

Go to lecure.org

Gifts in Wills make a huge difference to people affected by cancer, like Louise Broadbelt (above).

Louise was referred to The Royal Marsden in 2021 for cervical cancer treatment. She’s taking part in an immunotherapy trial in the West Wing Clinical Research Centre, which was originally funded through gifts in Wills to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. She said: “All the staff are amazing. I feel really lucky to have this opportunity. Taking part in this trial could help other patients like me in the future.”

Want to know more?

Visit royalmarsden.org/wills

Winter wonders

THIS FESTIVE SEASON, two of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s most popular fundraising events returned.

Celebrate a Life saw thousands of gold stars (above) displayed on the Christmas trees outside our hospitals, each one dedicated to someone special. The stars raised a fantastic total of more than £117,000.

Our special Celebrate a Life events, held at our Chelsea and Sutton hospital sites, were led by The Royal Marsden’s reverends and featured local choirs as well as live bands, who performed a selection of Christmas carols and songs. Meanwhile, visitors to the the Ever After Garden in Grosvenor Square were invited to dedicate an illuminated rose

in memory of a loved one while making a donation to the Charity, which raised more than £200,000. These events make a vital difference to the lives of cancer patients.

Want to know more?

Visit royalmarsden.org/star or royalmarsden.org/ ever-after-garden

Spruce up

ALL SMILES

Walkers at the finish line of last year’s March

our partnership to 2025, and will be the title sponsor for both the in-person and virtual events again this year.

Whether you plan to walk in celebration or in memory, together we’ll walk to transform the lives of cancer patients.

Want to know more?

Sign up at march.

royalmarsden.org

OUR LONGSTANDING PARTNER Ralph Lauren unveiled The Ralph Lauren Giving Tree for Bond Street in aid of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity at its flagship store over the festive season (left).

Visitors to the store at 1 New Bond Street in London had the opportunity to donate to the Charity and dedicate a personalised star ornament to be featured on the tree in honour of someone special.

Ralph Lauren also supported the Charity with its Holiday Fundraiser, featuring music from the Kingdom Choir and a holiday raffle.

An online art auction featuring works by worldrenowned artists including David Hockney, Tracey Emin and Grayson Perry raised almost £70,000 for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s Oak Cancer Centre Appeal. The auction – which included this print by Mali Morris (above) – was organised by the David Adams Leukaemia Appeal Fund, which was set up in memory of the late David Adams, who was treated at The Royal Marsden for two years after being diagnosed with leukaemia. During this time, he raised thousands of pounds towards the Charity’s work, and his efforts have since been continued by his loved ones.

Want to know more?

Visit davidadamsleukaemia appeal.org

PEDAL PALS

Professors Nicholas Turner and Ian Smith took on Le Cure in 2022

Treatment pairing drugs could offer patients new options.

BREACHING CANCER’S DEFENCES

Researchers have shown that an experimental drug combination could help break a tumour’s resistance to immunotherapy

THE IMMUNOTHERAPY DRUG

pembrolizumab has been successful in treating a range of solid tumours. But cancers can develop resistance to the drug, and some patients who initially benefit from it will eventually see their disease worsen.

Now, in a study supported by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) at The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London (ICR), researchers have shown that combining pembrolizumab with the experimental drug guadecitabine may reverse a cancer’s resistance

to immunotherapy – making it sensitive to treatment again. Guadecitabine is a DNA hypomethylating agent, which means it works by removing methyl groups from DNA. Methylation of cancer DNA is thought to play a role in cancer’s ability to suppress the immune system and therefore evade the action of immune checkpoint inhibitor drugs such as pembrolizumab.

Researchers at The Royal Marsden and the ICR found that 37 per cent of patients who received the drugs in tandem had their cancer kept in check for 24 weeks or more. The combination treatment could be a new option for patients

with lung cancer or other tumours whose disease has progressed and become resistant to immunotherapy.

“Immunotherapy has shown amazing promise over the past decade, but it doesn’t work well in all cancers, and cancers can often become resistant,” says study lead

Dr Anna Minchom, a NIHR BRC Clinical Scientist in the Oak Drug Development Unit and a Consultant Medical Oncologist at The Royal Marsden, who is funded by The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

“It was interesting to explore the guadecitabine–pembrolizumab combination in this study, as it could have the ability to reverse a resistance to immunotherapy and potentially benefit a large number of patients.”

Professor Johann de Bono, Director of the Oak Drug Development Unit at The Royal Marsden and the ICR and the study’s Chief Investigator, adds:

“If these effects are confirmed in other patient groups and future studies, in the long term, guadecitabine and pembrolizumab could help to tackle some of the resistance to immunotherapy we see in too many types of cancer.” RM

What is the Biomedical Research Centre?

The National Institute for Health and Care Research-funded Biomedical Research Centre for cancer is a partnership between The Royal Marsden and The Institute of Cancer Research, London. It supports the rapid translation of leading-edge cancer research from the laboratory into a clinical setting. Find out more at cancerbrc.org

CHANGES ON THE BOARD

WE ARE DELIGHTED to announce that The Venerable Liz Adekunle is set to join The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust’s Board as a Non-Executive Director.

Liz brings more than 20 years’ experience in ministry to the role. She served as Archdeacon of Hackney until August 2021 and is now a Chaplain to His Majesty the King. You may also have heard her presenting Thought for the Day on BBC Radio 4.

Liz holds a number of academic and board-level roles. She is on the board of STRIDE, the Metropolitan Police’s strategy for inclusion, diversity and engagement, and is a member of the National Police Chief’s Council. She also chaired the Monuments

and Plaques Committee at St Paul’s Cathedral.

Liz replaces Mark Aedy, who stepped down from his role as Non-Executive Director after nearly seven years in post.

During his time at the Trust, Mark chaired the Remuneration Committee and was a member of the Audit and Finance Committee. He also generously sat on The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity’s Investment Committee, providing valuable

Dates for your diary

Council of Governors Meeting 22 March, 11am-1pm

Board of Directors Meeting 29 March, 10.30am-12.30pm

Council of Governors Meeting 3 May, 3pm-5pm

Board of Directors Meeting 24 May, 10.30am12.30pm

To attend any of these meetings, email corporate governance@ rmh.nhs.uk

additional support to help manage the organisation’s investments portfolio.

Dame Cally Palmer, the Trust’s Chief Executive, said: “We are extremely fortunate to have Liz join our Board. I very much look forward to working with her for the benefit of both our staff and our patients.

“We also bid farewell to Mark, who brought invaluable strategic and commercial insight to The Royal Marsden, encouraging us to go further and faster in improving care for patients worldwide.

“Mark will be very much missed by us all. He always has a wise opinion and is a wonderful supporter of The Royal Marsden and all our staff.”

Keep in touch Call 020 7808 2844 or email trust. foundation@rmh. nhs.uk. Contact your Governor by email at governors@ rmh.nhs.uk Become a member

To sign up and become a member, visit royalmarsden. nhs.uk/ becomeamember or call 020 7808 2844 to request a membership form

A WINNING COMBINATION

Right: Dr Anna Minchom

We welcome The Venerable Liz Adekunle to the Trust and bid a fond farewell to the long-serving Mark Aedy

“We are extremely fortunate to have Liz join our Board”

LEADERSHIP ROLES The Venerable Liz Adekunle (above) succeeds Mark Aedy (above left)

PRIZE CROSSWORD

THE TEAM COMMENT, LIKE, SHARE SUDOKU

The lucky winner of our prize crossword will receive a £50 John Lewis & Partners gift card.

Send your crossword with your name and contact details to RM, PR and Communications Team, The Royal Marsden, Fulham Road, Chelsea, London SW3 6JJ. The entry closing date is 2 June 2023. See below for prize draw rules.

Winter 2022 crossword solution

Across 1 Bull Terrier 6 Lip 7 Unlined 8 Roach 9 Radar

11 Alder 13 Abyss 15 English 16 End 17 Embroidered

Down 1 Baler 2 Lapland 3 Truth 4 Ruler 5 Rider

10 Daywear 11 Adele 12 Rhino 13 Aphid 14 Sided

Congratulations to Stephen Lamb, the winner of the winter 2022 issue’s crossword prize.

SPRING 2023 PRIZE CROSSWORD ENTRY FORM

Fill in your details below when sending in your crossword competition entry. See above for details of our address.

NAME ADDRESS POST CODE TELEPHONE

Try

tricky numbers puzzle – it’s just for fun

CROSSWORD CLUES

Across

1 Marine mollusc (5)

4 Material to write on (5)

6 Rope used to raise or lower a sail (7)

8 Chess piece (4)

9 Portable toilet (5)

12 Wife left after death of husband (5)

13 Sparkling wine (4)

15 Ginger-haired person (7)

17 Structures at entrance or exit (5)

18 With sorrow (5)

Down

1 Green energy (4,5)

2 Gave or bequeathed something to someone (7)

3 Large brown seaweed (4)

4 Indian cheese (6)

5 Small vegetable (3)

7 Profession concerned with teeth (9)

10 Hang freely (7)

11 Confectionery (6)

14 Probability expressed as a ratio (4)

16 Small mark, as in a full stop (3)

PRIZE DRAW TERMS AND CONDITIONS

1. The Prize Draw is open to all readers of RM except employees of the Press Office at The Royal Marsden and Sunday, who produce RM magazine.

2. The closing date for receipt of all entries is 2 June 2023. Only one entry per person per draw.

3. Responsibility cannot be accepted for entries that are incomplete, illegible or not received. Proof of posting is not proof of receipt. No cash alternative is available and prizes are not transferable. Value of prize is correct at time of going to press.

4. Winners will be notified by post within 14 days of closing date.

FOR THE ROYAL MARSDEN

Rachael Reeve Director of Marketing and Communications

Sonya Cullington Head of PR and Communications

Catherine O’Mara

Senior PR and Communications Manager

Francesca Vitale

Senior Stories Officer

Georgia Tilley

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Ella Crumpton

Senior PR and Communications Officer

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FOR SUNDAY

Marc Grainger Editor

Robert Hearn Lead Creative

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Toby Smeeton Managing Director RM magazine is published by The Royal Marsden in partnership with Sunday: wearesunday.com

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Join the conversation on Twitter @royalmarsdenNHS

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5. The Promoter’s decision on any aspect of the promotions is final and binding. No correspondence will be entered into.

6. The Promoter reserves the right to substitute a prize of equal or greater value should circumstances make this necessary.

7. Entry implies acceptance of rules.

8. The winner of the crossword prize of a £50 John Lewis & Partners gift card will be the first correct entry drawn out of the bag.

9. The Promoter is The Royal Marsden, Fulham Road, London SW3 6JJ.

I’m at the @royalmarsdenNHS for my second dose of the IV chemo Paclitaxel. An unexpected treat was seeing a very unusual dancing visitor in the main lobby! [right]

Rahul Jena @Gleason_Score

First clinic wearing my new @NHSEnglandLDN badge with @CahillDeclan at @royalmarsdenNHS. Starting to see what makes this place so #legendary

Danny Clifford @DannyClifford 3 years ago, I was diagnosed with a rare, incurable blood cancer. I was told I had 6

CONTACT US

CALL THE ROYAL MARSDEN, CHELSEA 020 7352 8171

CALL THE ROYAL MARSDEN, SUTTON 020 8642 6011

VISIT US ONLINE royalmarsden.nhs.uk

months to 2 years. I am very happy to sail past their predictions. Thank you @royalmarsdenNHS

Mark Ryan @Mark_Ryan85

First Cyberknife treatment completed today – all seemed to go well. Extremely grateful to have access to this incredible technology.

Undergoing treatment at the Chelsea Royal Marsden... all staff are absolutely amazing... so caring, compassionate and I have a fantastic lymphoma team looking after me. Thank you all xxx

Tracy Izzard-Johnson

The only reason I’m still alive is because of The Royal Marsden. I will forever be in their debt.

Elizabeth Spencer

What a wonderful hospital. All the staff are so caring going well beyond what they need to. Considering the needs of the patient and their families. Nothing is too much bother. Thank you.

Instagram

Alison Hancock @hancock_alison

I am in awe of Ms Nobbenhuis & her surgical team! She is an amazing surgeon, & person, & I owe her so much! [above]

Frances Howarth @frances_stadlen

The kindest people you could ever come across

© The Royal Marsden 2023. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without prior permission of the Editor. The Royal Marsden and Sunday accept no responsibility for the views expressed by contributors to the magazine. Repro by F1 Colour. Printed by Geoff Neal Group.

WANT TO WORK AT THE ROYAL MARSDEN? Visit jobs.royalmarsden.nhs.uk

READ RM MAGAZINE ONLINE royalmarsden.nhs.uk/ rm-magazine

CONTACT THE ROYAL MARSDEN HELP CENTRE

For confidential chat, support and information, call 0800 783 7176 or visit royalmarsden.nhs.uk/ your-care/royal-marsdenhelp-centre

For general feedback, compliments, concerns or complaints, send us a message royalmarsden.nhs.uk/ contact-us/get-in-touch

STAY IN TOUCH WITH THE ROYAL MARSDEN CANCER CHARITY

CALL US 020 7808 2233

EMAIL US charity@royalmarsden.org

VISIT US ONLINE royalmarsden.org

Registered Charity No. 1095197

CONTACT THE FRIENDS OF THE ROYAL MARSDEN, CHELSEA

CALL US 020 7352 3875

EMAIL US friendsroyalmarsden @gmail.com

VISIT US ONLINE formc.uk

Registered Charity No. 222613