rm magazine, autumn 2013

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Life demands excellence magazine – autumn 2013 Drug innovations for our young patients Royal support for the charity Sir William Rous Unit: five years on How The Royal Marsden’s clinical research teams are developing the latest personalised treatments for cancer patients Research matters

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The Royal Marsden's magazine for staff, patients, carers and Foundation Trust Members.

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Page 1: RM Magazine, autumn 2013

Life demands excellence

magazine – autumn 2013

Drug innovations for our young patients

Royal support for the charity

Sir William Rous Unit: five years on

How The Royal Marsden’s clinical research teams are developing the latest personalised treatments for cancer patients

Research matters

RM16_PG01_Cover_FIN.indd 1 02/09/2013 16:21

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RM magazine

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.

RM16_PG02-03_Welcome_FIN.indd 2 23/08/2013 15:34

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RM magazine 03

Executive notes

Welcome to the autumn 2013 edition of Rm, the magazine for our staff, patients, carers and Foundation Trust members.

in this issue, we look at the next phase of the research strategy, which sets out our key priorities for the next five years (page 12). The Royal marsden has an outstanding reputation for research and development, specifically in translational research – transferring laboratory-based innovations into a clinical setting.

This reputation is built on years of world-leading developments as a result of working with our academic partner The Institute of Cancer Research (ICR). The next phase of the research strategy increases our focus on personalised medicine, including more sophisticated forms of immunological treatment that hold out real promise of prolonged disease control and cure for patients.

another area of work that has seen real patient benefit is our dedicated cancer diagnosis and treatment facility at Kingston Hospital (page 22). Over the past five years, the Sir William Rous Unit has been a hugely successful partnership and one that underlines The Royal marsden’s high standards of treatment and care for cancer patients.

Finally, we review some of our exciting charity projects (page 26), including the Audi Polo Challenge with HRH The Duke of Cambridge, at which The Duke – who is also The Royal marsden’s President – made his first public appearance following the birth of his son, Prince george.

i hope you enjoy reading this issue of Rm.

WelcomeContents 12 Research focusThe next phase of the research strategy takes personalised treatment to the next level

18 A clearer pictureNIHR Biomedical Research Centre status has allowed The Royal Marsden to employ advanced scanning techniques

20 A day in the lifeSenior Clinical Trials Co-ordinator Galina Petrikova and Senior Research Nurse Liz Barquin work hand in hand

22 Collaboration successFive years on at the Sir William Rous Unit, our dedicated daycare facility at Kingston Hospital

04 Hospital news 25 The Friends26 Fundraising 28 Foundation news 30 Puzzles & prizes

Regulars

Cally Palmer CBe, Chief executive, The Royal marsden

Cover photograph: Professor David Cunningham, Director of Clinical Research, and Dr Rowena Sharpe, Biomedical Research Centre Assistant Director

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Pioneering drug develoPment for children’s cancers

he Royal marsden’s paediatric drug development team has

been making major strides in improving the outcome for young patients with poor prognoses.

The team, based at the Oak Centre for Children and Young People, has increased the number of clinical trials from five in 2008 to 29 this year.

more recently, it opened 10 ‘first-in-child’ studies, with drugs targeting the molecular drivers of cancers in neuroblastoma (a cancer of specialised nerve cells), glioma (a type of tumour that starts in the brain or spine), rhabdomyosarcoma (a common soft-tissue sarcoma in children) and high-risk leukaemia.

Professor andy Pearson, who leads the team, said: “The cancers we focus on are those which account for the majority of childhood cancer deaths.

“We are working closely with The Royal marsden’s Centre for molecular Pathology, to ensure our patients receive the best drugs most likely to benefit them. We believe this will accelerate the progression of these drugs into front-line therapy for newly diagnosed

patients and greatly improve the chances of a long-term cure.”

The Royal marsden is also the leading international site in the BeaCOn-neuroblastoma Trial. This study aims to determine the best ‘backbone’ treatment for relapsed neuroblastoma, and will form a network of

european sites to undertake such research. it will open in 24 sites in eight countries.

Kay Puddington’s son Reece, 10, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma in 2008, when he was five. after chemotherapy, the cancer returned. He is now participating in The Royal marsden’s ridaforolimus trial.

Kay said: “We were offered the chance to go on the Phase i trial and, for six months, it has kept Reece’s condition stable.

“i must admit it was scary as we are entering the unknown, but he is doing really well and just takes three little tablets a day. He can ride his bike and play his games console just like any boy his age. i am grateful it has given us extra time and we live in hope that they will find a cure. i would advise any parent to explore all the options available to them, like we did.”

I am grateful it has given us extra time and we live in hope they will find a cure kay puddington, mother of 10-year-old drug trial patient reece

T

hosPital news

this photograph and below: research in the paediatric drug development ‘hot lab’ reece Puddington

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Hospital news

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while being as effective in identifying women at low risk of their cancer recurring.

The test also categorised more patients as having a high risk of their breast cancer returning within 10 years and fewer as being at intermediate risk than the other two tests. The researchers said the Pam50 could therefore be more cost-effective, while providing doctors with more information for determining which breast cancer patients would benefit most from chemotherapy.

Professor mitch Dowsett, Head of Biochemistry at The Royal marsden and Professor of Biochemical endocrinology at the iCR, said: “Chemotherapy is often used to reduce the risk of a patient’s breast cancer coming back, but side effects are significant and some women will not see any benefit. While the current test helps patients and clinicians decide whether chemotherapy is needed, it’s expensive and not available locally.

“Our study found that Pam50 is more effective than other methods at providing the information to exclude breast cancer patients from unnecessary chemotherapy, and has the potential to be carried out more quickly.”

New test helps womeN avoid chemotherapy

new genetic test for one of the most common forms of breast

cancer will help better identify those women who should be considered for chemotherapy, and those who can avoid it.

Researchers from The Royal marsden, The institute of Cancer Research (iCR) and Queen mary, University of London, found that the Pam50 test produced better long-term information than current methods of determining if a patient’s cancer would return.

The test identifies more women with the highest risk of their breast cancer returning, and fewer at intermediate risk. it could therefore help doctors identify, with greater certainty, the women who are most likely to benefit from chemotherapy, while letting others avoid unnecessary treatment.

Breast cancer is diagnosed in 50,000 women every year, with 80 per cent of cases caused by oestrogen-receptor positive (eR+) disease. Women with this type of breast cancer can be

treated with hormone therapy, but for some, the risk of their cancer coming back within 10 years means they are also given chemotherapy.

Currently, a test called Oncotype DX (1) can assess the likelihood of a patient’s breast cancer returning, but it costs more than £2,000 per patient. The new Pam50 test provides doctors with more long-term predictive information than both the Oncotype DX and iHC4 (a test developed by Breakthrough Breast Cancer),

The PAM50 test helps us exclude breast cancer patients from unnecessary chemotherapy Professor mitch dowsett, head of biochemistry at the royal marsden

A

Breast cancer

the test better identifies women who

are at high risk of their breast cancer returning and who would benefit from further treatment

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Hospital news

ImprovIng health servIces beyond the bedsIde

he Royal marsden has been awarded funding for pilot-site status to

redesign and test new care pathways to support patients when they leave hospital.

With advances in diagnosis and treatment, some cancers can now be managed as a chronic disease. it is vital, therefore, that there are pathways in place to ensure a seamless transition of care from hospital into the community.

Funding from macmillan Cancer Support and Prostate Cancer UK means that The Royal marsden has achieved pilot-site status to remodel the pathways that support patients.

This funding is part of work being carried out in the area of health services research at the Trust. The work aims to develop new services and research programmes that improve care for those living with and beyond cancer in the community.

Three Royal marsden staff members are part of the Department of Health/macmillan Consequences of Cancer and Treatment Collaborative (CCaT). They are Dr Theresa Wiseman, Strategic Lead for Health Service Research; natalie Doyle, nurse Consultant, Living With and Beyond Cancer; and Dr isabel White, Clinical Research Fellow in Psychosexual Practice.

The Trust is part of a Survivorship action Partnership (aSaP), a Prostate Cancer UK network that offers expertise in improving care and support for prostate cancer survivors.

Other health services research includes studies to improve the assessment and management of radiation bowel disease; pain and sexual morbidity; family and psychological support; and rehabilitation, including diet, exercise and relaxation.

in addition, Dr natalie Pattison, Senior Clinical nursing

Research Fellow, is conducting a study exploring the use of patient diaries after critical care admission to minimise psychological distress. She is also about to begin a study examining decision-making during critical care outreach.

These studies, along with research into the appropriateness of treatment and end-of-life care, will also ensure that we provide the best quality of care for patients across all the different pathways.

Leading the way in clinical researchThe Royal Marsden is spearheading the rise of clinical research in the NHS, according to a league table from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Clinical Research Network.

The table shows the number of studies done by each NHS Trust in the past year, and the number of patients who took part.

Research ultimately improves treatment options, and there is evidence to show that patients do better in hospitals that conduct research, even if they are not part of a study themselves.

The Royal Marsden increased its studies from 159 in 2011/12 to 187 in 2012/13, and it is the top trust in England in the acute specialist trust category for the number of studies it conducted last year.

Professor David Cunningham, Director of Clinical Research at The Royal Marsden, said: “I am delighted that this league table shows the important role we are playing in leading the national clinical research agenda. We are very proud of our trials and the benefits they bring.”

Find the league table at www.crncc.nihr.ac.uk/nhs-performance and more about clinical research at www.nhsresearch.org

The Royal Marsden has pilot-site status to remodel patient-support pathways

T

159 2011–12

187 2012–13

the number of trials conducted at the royal marsden has increased by 28

dr natalie pattison, clinical nursing

research Fellow

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he results of a trial of a new potential cancer drug at The Royal

marsden have been presented at the annual meeting of the american Society of Clinical Oncology (aSCO) in Chicago.

The potential drug, called Bmn 673, is designed to be effective in tumours with faulty BRCa genes and has shown impressive responses in an early-stage clinical trial.

Dna repair in cancer cells is targeted by the drug, which specifically attacks tumours that have been left vulnerable by genetic mutations.

Professor Johann de Bono, Honorary Consultant in medical Oncology at The Royal marsden

and Professor of experimental Cancer medicine at The institute of Cancer Research, announced that the study found the drug was well tolerated by patients and showed “excellent anti-tumour activity”.

BRCa mutations reduce cells’ ability to repair their Dna and, when inherited, substantially increase the risk

of developing a range of cancers, including breast, ovarian and prostate.

no targeted treatments have yet been approved specifically for use in patients who have inherited BRCa mutations.

Researchers now plan a larger, Phase iii clinical trial of Bmn 673, to further explore its potential effectiveness.

Life-extending new treatment for prostate cancer A prostate cancer drug that was trialled at The Royal Marsden is now available for use in the UK.

Enzalutamide is the latest in a new generation of drugs that can prolong and improve life for men with incurable, advanced prostate cancer.

The granting of the UK licence for enzalutamide follows the submission of data from the AFFIRM multinational study.

Professor Johann de Bono, Honorary Consultant in Medical Oncology at The Royal Marsden, and global chief investigator of the trial, said: “Enzalutamide is a much-needed development in prostate cancer treatment and will provide an important new option for the increasing number of men with advanced prostate cancer in the UK.

“It has already demonstrated a positive impact on quality of life, while increasing the lifespan of patients with this common disease. Its use will bring significant benefits, establishing it as a key component of advanced prostate cancer treatment.”

Enzalutamide is a once-daily, oral treatment that is administered without the need for product-specific, routine monitoring.

This study found the drug showed excellent anti-tumour activityprofessor johann de bono, honorary consultant in medical oncology at the royal marsden

T

New poteNtial caNcer drug aNNouNced

professor Johann de Bono, Honorary consultant in

Medical oncology

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Hospital news

pecialists in treating the side effects of radiation therapy are

using an unusual method of treatment for some patients at The Royal marsden – sessions in a pressurised diving chamber, wearing an oxygen mask.

Hyperbaric treatment, as it is known, can produce good results, as the experience of one Royal marsden patient demonstrates.

andrew Delf, a 47-year-old hospital porter, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2010 and underwent radiotherapy to treat it. His treatment was successful, but six months later, he experienced heavy rectal bleeding due to the

radiotherapy having damaged blood vessels in his bowel.

“i would come home after work and crash out,” said andrew, who lives in Suffolk with his wife, Clare. “i had to stop running as i just didn’t have the energy.”

andrew was soon referred to Dr Jervoise andreyev, Consultant gastroenterologist in Pelvic Radiation Disease at The Royal marsden.

“Treatment for cancer can be so successful now, and survival rates have rocketed, which is fantastic,” said Dr andreyev. “However, this means that there are some people who are cured of their cancers but are now living with the side effects

of radiotherapy treatment. The Royal marsden is the only hospital that has a specialist unit to treat these side effects.

“We offered andrew hyperbaric treatment, which has been around for a while. i’ve treated patients with it for the past 13 years and have seen very good results.”

it is thought that increased oxygen levels trigger the release of stem cells from the bone marrow. These have the ability to change into any cell of the body, so can aid healing.

andrew had the treatment for two hours a day over eight weeks. “i noticed halfway through the course that the bleeds became less frequent,” said andrew. “Since finishing the treatment at the beginning of april, i haven’t had any. i feel great and have even started running again.”

The Royal marsden has just completed a study, led by Professor John Yarnold, into the benefits of hyperbaric treatment. The results will be published early next year.

Diving chamber treatment for pelvic raDiation DiseaseS

Dr Jervoise andreyev (left), consultant gastroenterologist

in pelvic radiation Disease

professor John Yarnold

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RM magazine 09

programme that aims to lay the foundations for anyone with cancer to

have access to genetic testing is being led by The Royal marsden and The institute of Cancer Research (iCR).

The programme will put in place a new patient pathway for cancer gene-testing so that more genes can be tested in more people. it aims to develop the laboratory, analytical, interpretative and clinical capabilities required to make cancer predisposition gene testing information routinely available in the clinic.

mutations in some genes, known as cancer predisposition genes, greatly increase the likelihood that a person will get cancer. Recent advances in methods for reading the genetic code mean that looking for gene mutations is now faster and more affordable than ever before. There is now an opportunity to transform cancer gene-testing and to improve the health outcomes of many people with cancer, and their families.

The research component of the programme is funded by the Wellcome Trust, and is called the mainstreaming Cancer genetics (mCg) programme.

It is important to know if a mutation has caused a person’s cancer Professor NazNeeN rahmaN, head of the caNcer geNetics cliNical uNit at the royal marsdeN

Professor Nazneen Rahman leads the investigation

The clinical testing will be undertaken in TgL Clinical, the laboratory that has been established at the iCR with support from The Royal marsden Cancer Charity.

Professor nazneen Rahman, Head of the Cancer genetics Clinical Unit at The Royal marsden and Head of genetics at the iCR, is lead investigator of the programme. She said: “it is very important to know if a mutation in a person’s genetic blueprint has caused their cancer. it allows more personalised treatment. it also improves the information available for relatives about their own cancer risks.”

The new model is being piloted, in the first instance, in women with breast or ovarian cancer at The Royal marsden. By the end of the three-year programme, the team aims to have developed a ‘toolkit’ that will cover the full process involved in testing any cancer predisposition gene. This could then be used throughout the nHS, so that anyone with cancer can benefit.

A New geNetic testiNg model

A

Cancer genetics

Congratulations to TRH The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge on the birth of their son, HRH Prince George of Cambridge, from everyone at The Royal Marsden.

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Hospital news

London Cancer Alliance makes great progressIn 2011, the London Cancer Alliance (LCA) was established as the integrated cancer system across west and south London. It works collaboratively with 17 NHS provider organisations, including The Royal Marsden, to provide comprehensive, integrated cancer patient pathways and services to drive improvements in patient experience and outcomes for the population it serves.

The LCA has now established 20 pathway and project groups, focusing on different tumour types and aspects of the patient journey, including chemotherapy closer to home and radiotherapy.

Pathway groups are producing clinical guidelines for use across all LCA provider organisations, with the first to be published focusing on acute oncology services, breast cancer and lung cancer. These are due out in September.

Clinicians from The Royal Marsden are involved across all pathways, and four are chairs: Dr Julia Chisholm co-chairs Children and Young Persons; Dr Alexandra Taylor chairs Gynaecology; Mr Satvinder Mudan chairs Hepato-pancreatic-biliary; and Ms Natalie Doyle co-chairs Survivorship.

he specialist Teenage Cancer Trust Unit at The Royal marsden

in Sutton celebrated its first birthday by creating a special piece of art at a graffiti workshop.

graffiti artist Ben mcKay visited the unit, based in the Oak Centre for Children and Young People, to work with current and former patients.

They created a first-birthday-themed piece of art, which has been mounted in the unit.

The unit was officially opened in may 2012 by Teenage Cancer Trust patron Sarah, Duchess of York, her daughter Princess Beatrice and The Who frontman Roger Daltrey CBe, who is also a long-standing patron. The 13-bed unit has

Teenage CanCer TrusT uniT marks iTs firsT birThday

seen more than 130 young people from across Sussex, Surrey and Kent receive treatment for cancer, and nine complex bone marrow transplants have been performed there.

The unit is a bright, vibrant ‘home from home’, and has been uniquely designed to support young people aged 16 to 24. Unlike any ordinary hospital ward, it has a kitchen, where parents and partners can store food and prepare simple meals; a dedicated cook, who provides all snacks and meals to patients; and an outdoor roof terrace. There is also a chill-out area, divided into areas for relaxation, music and entertainment, and an education room, enabling patients to keep up with their studies and take their gCSe, aS and a2 exams while receiving treatment.

Having this unique and special unit at The Royal marsden has helped support young people undergoing early-phase clinical trials and particularly helped them to achieve their goals during palliative and end-of-life care.

T

The Teenage Cancer Trust unit was

opened in 2012 by sarah, duchess of

york, roger daltrey and Princess beatrice

Graffiti artist Ben mckay (left) with

young patient alex gaunt

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RM magazine 11

Respected artists Susan Ryder and Diana Calvert will judge a painting competition for The Royal Marsden’s Arts Forum. Also on the judging panel will be Dr Jacqueline Filshie, who is a founder member of the forum.

The four winning paintings will be exhibited and then kept permanently at the hospital, while a shortlist of 30 paintings will be hung in an exhibition at the hospital in February 2014, and available to purchase.

Entries are now open – thanks to a benefactor, the

first prize will be £2,000, second £1,500, third £1,000 and £500 for fourth.

You can enter up to two paintings per person. The maximum size, including frame, is 1m x 1m, and all work must be varnished or under Perspex for cleaning purposes.

We are unable to accept portraits for this competition and entrants should ensure that their subject matter is suitable to be exhibited in a hospital environment.

There is no entry fee, but entrants are welcome

to contribute a donation to The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity in lieu of a fee. You can donate at www.royalmarsden.org/donate

The deadline for submissions is 30 November. If you would like to enter, or have any questions, please send an email, with images of your painting attached, to [email protected]

For anonymity in the judging process, please do not include your name in the image attachments.

Entries open for Arts Forum painting competition

eflexology has been introduced for patients at The Royal marsden

following a research study.massage with essential oils

has been used at the hospital since 1988, to help patients manage painful symptoms and aid sleep, but reflexology has never before been available.

Following a request from the patient and carer representatives on the integrated Care Working group for the complementary therapy team to consider introducing reflexology, a randomised control research study was carried out. This was to compare massage with reflexology and establish the benefits to patients.

The results from the 115

patients who took part showed that both groups (massage and reflexology) gained clinical benefit from the therapies and that reflexology was as good as massage in effectiveness.

in general, both aromatherapy massage and reflexology may be helpful in symptom management – to reduce physical discomfort, including muscle stiffness and pain; to assist those feeling fatigued, breathless or nauseous, or having difficulties sleeping; and to promote relaxation and help reduce anxiety. Therapists help patients decide which therapy is most suitable for them.

massage and reflexology are available from members of the complementary therapy

team. Outpatients need to book an appointment through the rehabilitation unit secretaries; inpatients are referred via the ward or rehabilitation staff; and day cases can be seen within the medical Day Units. The service is free for nHS patients.◆ Chelsea Rehabilitation Secretary: 020 7808 2811◆ Sutton Rehabilitation Secretary: 020 8661 3005

Reflexology may help manage symptoms such as pain, fatigue and nausea, and promote relaxation

R

Reflexology Now available foR Royal maRsdeN patieNts

Congratulations to Professor Mitch DowsettThe Royal Marsden’s Professor Mitch Dowsett, Head of the Academic Department of Biochemistry and Professor of Biochemical Endocrinology, has joined the Fellowship of the Academy of Medical Sciences.

Professor Dowsett is one of 44 newly elected Fellows, who are chosen for excellence in medical research, innovative application of scientific knowledge or their service to healthcare.

Professor Martin Gore, The Royal Marsden’s Medical Director, said: “Mitch has a huge international reputation for his work. His main contribution has been to evaluate the role of hormones in breast cancer and he has been a true pioneer in this regard. Many thousands of patients have benefited from his contribution.”

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s part of europe’s largest comprehensive cancer centre, The Royal marsden – together

with its academic partner, The institute of Cancer Research (iCR) – is continuing its groundbreaking work on the latest cancer treatment and technologies.

Taking personalised cancer treatment to the next level is one of the main focuses of our research strategy, which will encompass the Trust’s key priorities for the next five years, according to Professor David Cunningham, Director of Clinical Research: “This strategy will help us prioritise the new phase of our research. Focusing on key areas will ensure patients benefit from the latest advances in cancer treatment.”

The Royal marsden, together with the iCR, has been a world leader in personalised cancer treatment for many years, and this strategy will continue this work. Together, we are the only national institute of Health Research (niHR) Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) dedicated to cancer. The BRC facilitates the translation of scientific findings in genetic and molecular causes of cancer into improved treatment tested in national trials.

Professor Cunningham says: “We need to focus in order to be successful. it’s an exciting time as we’ve seen so many advances in the past five years, in areas

such as lung and gastrointestinal cancers and melanoma. This is mainly due to the revolution in molecular diagnostics, which allows us to classify tumours into different subtypes, each of which responds best to different treatments.

“i strongly believe the research strategy will spread knowledge and expertise across all departments and ensure we are optimising our strengths. For example, if we have the lung team researching a drug for a genetic mutation, another tumour type may benefit from that research, and vice versa.

“We need to build on the success we have achieved and ensure different departments are working together, achieving best practice. Historically, clinicians worked within a specific tumour type, but we are moving towards a more integrated system and the strategy reflects that.”

With the appointment of Professor Cunningham as Director of Clinical Research, a dedicated core team is driving changes within the Trust that are needed to deliver the research strategy. One of its first actions was to appoint a Clinical Unit Research Lead for each of the 16 tumour types (see right). each is responsible for ensuring that the quality and breadth of research within their unit fits with the strategy and seeks to develop research in areas of need. ➜

spotlight on ReseaRch

A commitment to groundbreaking

researchThe Royal marsden’s newly formed Clinical Research executive team is embarking on the next phase of the

research strategy. We examine how this promises to build on the Trust’s reputation for advancing cancer treatment

a

Dr Rowena sharpe, Biomedical Research centre assistant Director (right)

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RM magazine 13

Research focus

Clinical Unit Research Leads

Drug Development unit Dr udai BanerjiBreastprof stephen Johnstonurology Prostate prof Johann de BonoRenal Dr James larkinOther Dr robert Huddartgi anD lympHoma Dr ian Chaulung Dr sanjay popatHeaD anD neCk prof Christopher nuttingskin Dr James larkinsarComa prof ian JudsonHaemato-onCology Dr Faith DaviespaeDiatriCs prof andy pearsonneuro-onCology Dr Frank sarangynaeCology Dr susana BanerjeeanaestHetiCs Dr shaman Jhanjipalliative Care Dr Joy rossHealtH serviCe researCH Dr theresa WisemangenetiCs Dr Clare turnbull

RM16_PG12-17_Research_FIN.indd 13 02/09/2013 11:37

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it will also be important to harness the potential of emerging developments. The use of newer immunotherapy treatments for solid tumours is showing early promise and has generated new research streams within the BRC. These drugs may lead to lasting anti-cancer responses and even cure.

The Trust also has plans to complement the aims of the research strategy with building projects to create a research community.

Dr Rowena Sharpe, Biomedical Research Centre assistant Director, says: “We currently have research teams scattered around the hospital, which is not ideal, as they don’t benefit from peer networks and the sharing of best practice. Our new developments will bring teams together, reducing the time it takes to set up new trials, ensuring patients can start benefiting from trials more quickly.

“The niHR is focused on increasing the speed and delivery of research, while maintaining its quality.”

Behind the scenesSpeeding up the research set-up processThe Clinical Research and Development Department focuses on helping investigators take the right steps along all parts of the clinical research pathway, from concept to closure. The department is also responsible for supporting the Committee for Clinical Research (CCR), which grants sponsorship approval for clinical research studies.

“We have brought in Danny Walker as Performance metrics and Data Co-ordinator, who ensures that the time it takes to set up research is as short as possible,” says Rachel Turner, assistant Director of Clinical Research. “Danny also runs the Trial Set-Up meeting, chaired by Dr naureen Starling, associate Director of Clinical Research, which ensures that the right people – the investigator, pharmacy, radiology, finance and contracts – are gathered weekly to discuss new trials to be run in the hospital. This helps to quickly resolve issues that would usually delay the set-up of trials.”

inspiring clinicians Dr Ian Chau explains what makes research work so rewarding One of the most rewarding experiences of clinicians’ work at The Royal marsden is getting involved with our drug

development programme. many clinicians juggle busy clinics with their research interests to improve outcomes for as many of their patients as possible.

Dr ian Chau has been a consultant at The Royal marsden for six years, specialising in gastrointestinal cancers and lymphoma. “One of the major dilemmas for consultants is to make time for research,” he says. “managing patient clinics is demanding, but we must find time in our day for research. i think once you experience your first excitement of getting your work published, you get hooked.”

Dr Chau can be involved in more than 20 trials at any one time and puts his dedication down to being a research fellow for Professor David Cunningham early on in his career.

He says: “i learned a lot about setting up clinical trials and analysing data. it put me in touch with national and international experts in the field. it really opened doors for me.

“i find research incredibly satisfying. it requires different skills to treating patients. Research changes all the time, and we are lucky at The Royal marsden to have an excellent infrastructure to support our work. The whole team makes it possible, from trial co-ordinators to nurses.”dr ian chaU, consUltant Medical oncologist

professor david cUnninghaM, director of clinical research

We are lucky to have an excellent infrastructure to support our work

It’s an exciting time. We’ve seen so many advances in the past five years

Professor David Cunningham, Director of Clinical Research

Dr Ian Chau, Consultant Medical Oncologist

RM16_PG12-17_Research_FIN.indd 14 28/08/2013 10:57

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Research focus

RM magazine 15

Lung cancer researchPersonalised treatment optionsThe Royal marsden is one of a handful of centres in the world that can offer every lung patient a personalised approach to treatment, thanks to our successful research programmes. Testing for genetic mutations, as part of The Royal marsden’s involvement with Cancer Research UK’s Stratified medicine Programme, has now become the standard approach that lung cancer patients can expect at the hospital.

Patients with non-small cell carcinoma would have been treated in the same manner as other lung cancer patients five years ago. now, they can receive therapies that will target the specific mutation that drives the cancer, making it grow and spread, says Dr Sanjay Popat, Consultant medical Oncologist: “We work closely with our molecular diagnostic team and test patients for five genetic mutations, involving the genes egFR, KRaS, BRaF, aLK and DDR2. if a patient tests positive, we can select the drug to target the mutation.”

The Royal marsden joined the Stratified medicine Phase i study just over two years ago, and from the first month onwards was the highest-recruiting hospital for lung

CASE STUDY: Tom McKinley, 36

“I was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer in september 2011 and told I had six months to live without treatment, or 18 months to three years with it.

“I am fit and have a young family, so to say it was a shock is an understatement. I thought my back pain was caused by over-exercising.

“On my first visit to The royal Marsden, Dr sanjay Popat was convinced I had a genetic mutation, as it’s not common for someone my age to get lung cancer. My test came back positive for the aLK mutation, which about three per cent of lung-cancer patients have. external lifestyle choices do not trigger it; it’s in my genes.

“Dr Popat told me he had a trial drug called crizotinib that targeted my gene mutation and said it may give me a few more months with my family. I didn’t need any time to think about it; anything was worth a try.

“I’ve been on the drug for 14 months now and it has given me a quality of life I never thought I’d have. It has given me time with my family and put the clock on pause for now.

“I know it will eventually stop working, but all I can do is live for the moment and believe that, when it does stop working, there will be something else available that I’m eligible for. This drug has let me believe other treatments will come along and keep me in the fight.

“The Royal Marsden is a special place and, thanks to this drug, my life is relatively normal. I’m back exercising and at work. My wife and family have been pillars of strength. Without their support, I might not have been here to say so.”

cancer. This approach was so successful that Cancer Research UK decided to dedicate Phase ii to lung cancer patients.

“We now treat lung cancer patients using treatments that are much more appropriate to their individual cancer. This way, patients will have better outcomes,” says Dr Popat. “We are moving away from treating a tumour type and towards a more integrated approach with colleagues. We now use drugs that target mutations as well as the location of the tumour in the body. if one of my patients tests positive for BRaF, i can start them on a trial drug that is also used for melanoma patients, called dabrafenib.

“We could run one drug trial for a genetic mutation that crosses over three tumour types. This united approach to treatment is embedded in our research strategy as it encourages clinicians and scientists to work together, to the benefit of our patients.” ➜

DR Sanjay POPaT, COnSulTanT MeDICal OnCOlOgIST

This united approach to treatment is embedded in our research strategy

Dr Sanjay Popat, Consultant Thoracic Medical Oncologist,

talks to a patient

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16  RM magazine

Patient and Public involvementHelping to shape future research The Royal marsden has a patient forum to give the public an active role in deciding the Trust’s future research projects.

The Patient and Public involvement (PPi) group – entitled the Patient and Carer Research Review Panel – gives patients and the public an active role in shaping the Trust’s future research projects.

Dr natalie Pattison, Trust Lead for Patient and Public involvement, explains that it’s important to hear the views of the people the research will potentially affect, to ensure the patient is at the heart of the decision-making process.

“PPi is about empowering individuals and communities so that they can play a greater role in shaping healthcare research,” she says. “as the only Biomedical Research Centre for Cancer in the UK, we need to demonstrate how our PPi impacts on the research we do. it helps us identify what’s important to patients and the public, and how we can improve the way we run clinical trials.”

The panel was set up in 2011 and has already improved research projects being carried out at The Royal marsden. The panel of up to 20 people meets four times a year to discuss research ideas presented by investigators and to discuss priorities. They also undertake email reviews of documents to make patient information more comprehensible for laypeople.

natalie says: “The panel’s advice was invaluable in a study that’s currently under way, using bedside diaries – written by staff and families – to help patients piece together their Critical Care Unit stay.

“We were able to determine the best time to approach families and patients, and the panel also suggested undertaking a content analysis of the diaries. We wrote the protocol to reflect this and successfully gained ethical approval.”

Dr Natalie Pattison, Trust Lead for Patient and Public Involvement

dr natalie Pattison, trust lead for Patient and Public involvement

Individuals can play a greater role in shaping healthcare research

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Research focus

RM magazine 17

An eye on the future Supporting clinicians in research studies inspiring the future generation of researchers through training is a key aim of the strategy. The Royal marsden prides itself on encouraging clinicians to develop their skills and dedicate time to research.

Plans are under way to expand the Trust’s already outstanding training programmes for clinical staff, to ensure they have the support and guidance they require to further their research portfolio, or learn how to start.

Dr naureen Starling, associate Director of Clinical Research and the Trust’s Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Training Lead, says: “The Royal marsden and the iCR, individually and in partnership through the BRC, are instrumental in developing the current and future oncology-research workforce, which will play a key role in translating advances in translational cancer research into the clinic and across the nHS for the benefit of patients.

“many of our researchers in training take up posts elsewhere across London

and the rest of the UK, hence our training programmes have a wide-reaching impact. We’re looking to develop these further and create niche and bespoke programmes to be accessed locally and across the niHR infrastructure.

“BRC research training opportunities extend not only to doctors but also to the wider research community, including allied health professionals, statisticians and scientists in experimental medicine.”

The Royal marsden currently holds courses for research and trial-awareness training programmes; support for allied health professionals to undertake research taster courses; and drop-in clinics to support the development of clinical studies. The BRC will also be expanding its training programme, which is focused on areas of translational research by enhancing its targeted cancer treatment course and its imaging and radiotherapy programmes.

Professor Cunningham says: “We must inspire the future generation to use their knowledge and skills for research.” rm

Professor DAviD CunninghAm, DireCtor of CliniCAl reseArCh

We must inspire the future generation to use their knowledge and skills for research

Dr Naureen Starling (second from right) is the Trust’s Biomedical

Research Centre Training Lead

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18  RM magazine

See future editionS of rM for More coverage of the reMaining Seven Brc theMeS and their leadS:

CanCer TherapeuTiCs prof Johann de BonoBreasT Dr nick TurnerprosTaTe prof David DearnaleyCliniCal sTuDies prof David CunninghamCanCer GeneTiCs prof nazneen rahmanMoleCular paTholoGy prof Mitch DowsettraDioTherapy prof Kevin harrington

cancer iMaging

Providing a clearer picture

as the UK’s sole niHR Biomedical Research Centre for Cancer, The Royal marsden and The institute of Cancer Research receive

funding to support our pioneering work. Here, we look at how advanced cancer-imaging techniques are helping us to better understand tumours

Our status as the only national institute for Health and Research (niHR) Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) for Cancer in the UK has been instrumental in supporting research that we carry out. We initially received the prestigious niHR BRC award in 2006, and were re-awarded the status in 2011.

a total of £62 million in funding is being provided over five years and will be shared among eight research themes. One of these is Cancer imaging, which is at the heart of every patient’s treatment plan at The Royal marsden and makes a valuable contribution to the research carried out in our BRC.

Patients are regularly scanned to ensure that they are given the best available treatment, whether they receive conventional care or care as part of clinical trials. The BRC funding is allowing the Cancer imaging team to research advanced scanning techniques, helping to identify tumour structure and behaviour much more accurately than before.

Dr Dow-mu Koh, Consultant Radiologist in Functional imaging and BRC Cancer imaging theme lead, says: “The sole purpose of the BRC is to support the translation of research from The institute of Cancer Research to The Royal marsden, which will ultimately have a positive impact on patient outcomes. The advanced scanning techniques we apply in studies go above and beyond the conventional scanning we do day-to-day, which generally measures the tumour size.

“The outcome for patients can be greatly enhanced by the research we do, as we no longer need to rely purely on tumour size, but can also look at other biological properties. These can demonstrate a change in the behaviour of a tumour well before its actual shape or size changes.

“in addition, tumour size is not always a sensitive measurement parameter, as some new treatments can be effective without a change in tumour size. We can tell a lot about the behaviour of a tumour by examining the blood flow and by measuring vascularity [the appearance of the blood vessels around the tumour] and cellularity [how the tumour behaves on a molecular level].

“Understanding the properties of a tumour can also give us a clearer idea of how well a particular drug may work earlier in a treatment plan, and our colleagues can then tailor treatment accordingly. For example, if a tumour is deprived of oxygen, we know it is less sensitive to radiotherapy.”

The Cancer imaging team has two new mRi scanners (funded by The Royal marsden Cancer Charity) in Chelsea and has three state-of-the-art machines in Sutton. There are also three PeT-CT machines across both sites. Colleagues work closely with the niHR-funded imaging Clinical Research Facility and the CRUK-funded Cancer imaging Centre to ensure that all funding is put to best use.

“Our work allows us to have an overall picture of the disease across the body and provides reliable information to enable the clinicians to decide on the best course of treatment,” says Dr Koh. “i’m really pleased the Trust acknowledges the importance of imaging as one of the BRC themes.” rm

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Hospital news

RM magazine 19

Dr Dow-Mu Koh (left) with a patient in The Royal

Marsden’s imaging suite

Biomedical Research Centre

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20  RM magazine

Liz Barquin, Senior reSearch nurSe

Galina Petrikova (top left) is a Senior Clinical Trials Co-ordinator, and works alongside Senior

Research Nurse Liz Barquin (bottom right). Together, they ensure that clinical trials are

beneficial to research and patients alike

A highlight of the job is seeing patients respond to treatment on our studies

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Staff profile

RM magazine 21

Galina: making trials compliantas Senior Clinical Trials Co-ordinator for the Sarcoma Unit, i’m responsible for ensuring that each trial complies with strict regulations; this requires constant monitoring and updating for the duration of the study. The goal during the trial process is to protect the patients’ interests, while making certain that studies generate valuable and reliable data for final analysis and publication.

Sarcoma is interesting in that it is a rare group of diseases with different treatment approaches. Due to its rarity, we usually have smaller numbers of patients on our trials compared with other cancer types. On clinic days, i make sure all the patient information sheets and consent forms are up to date so Liz and the other nurses have everything they need, including sample collection kits for taking blood. There is a wide pool of information for trial co-ordinators to keep on top of, and we need to ensure that the consultants, trial sponsors, nurses and, above all, patients are happy. i usually don’t meet our patients, but i know their histories, stories and the different challenges they face off by heart.

We have about three monitoring visits a week, during which a representative from a particular clinical research organisation or pharmaceutical company comes to the unit to verify all the data we’ve been recording. During the monitoring activities, we spend a reasonable amount of time discussing and clarifying any queries that arise during the data recordings.

at the moment, there are 11 studies in the Sarcoma Unit that are actively recruiting. each week, research nurses and co-ordinators have a meeting with consultants, research fellows and, when possible, registrars, to discuss the progress of every patient on every study.

Liz: working with sarcoma patientsmy focus is mainly the patients. a key part of my role is to ensure that they understand what they are getting into when agreeing to take part in a trial. We often spend a long time talking about this during their first appointments. as trials offer a new drug that isn’t available elsewhere, patients come from all over the country to The Royal marsden, some travelling long distances on a regular basis. There are also possible side effects of the drugs to warn patients about.

a big part of my day is taking phone calls from patients – we encourage them to call and let us know how they are. Sometimes, even the smallest symptom can be significant to research.

We have about four clinics a week. i see patients, both with consultants and on my own, to run through any symptoms they might have, monitor responses to treatment and assess whether they need their treatment doses adjusted. i take a blood sample and then run it down to the tissue-processing room so it can be sent to a central lab for further analysis.

it’s a highlight of my job to see patients respond to treatment on our studies. rm

Senior Clinical Trials Co-ordinator Galina Petrikova

Senior Research NurseLiz Barquin

a day in the life

Trial co-ordinators and research nurses work hand in hand to ensure the smooth running of clinical trials, though their focus is different

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22  RM magazine

Sir William Rous Unit

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RM magazine 23

five years on

Working together to provide better careThe Royal marsden’s Sir William Rous Unit at Kingston Hospital has earned an excellent reputation among patients during its short history

t’s been five years since The Royal marsden, along with Kingston Hospital nHS Foundation Trust and macmillan

Cancer Support, opened the Sir William Rous Unit. a dedicated cancer diagnosis and treatment facility based at Kingston Hospital, the unit has gone from strength to strength since it opened in 2008, with excellent feedback from both patients and staff. Providing first-class specialist services to local people, the unit has also treated more patients than was first anticipated.

Cally Palmer, Chief executive of The Royal marsden, says: “Since opening in 2008, the Sir William Rous Unit has been a successful and unique joint partnership between ourselves, Kingston Hospital and macmillan Cancer Support, which has ultimately benefited many cancer patients. i am very proud that The Royal marsden has played such a key role in this partnership.”

The unit was commissioned and built not only to maintain service excellence, but also to provide better healthcare closer to home and widen the choices regarding where patients could receive their treatment.

Services for patients include outpatient and diagnostic clinics, featuring mammography and ultrasound, where patients can have investigations and receive their results from Royal marsden and Kingston consultants. Support services are provided by macmillan. ➜

i

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24  RM magazine

the friends

Sir William Rous Unit

the unit, and 100 per cent of patients felt that the different people caring for them were working closely together to provide the best care possible.

One patient treated at the Sir William Rous Unit says: “When i started my chemotherapy, i was very worried as i knew that i had six months of treatment to go through. i quickly became more comfortable at the unit as the staff supported me so well and took special care of me. The compassionate and kind way i was looked after made me feel strong enough to endure the chemotherapy. The Sir William Rous Unit is a huge asset.”

Clinical lead Dr Parton says that The Royal marsden is proud to have the highest standards of treatment and care for cancer

Chemotherapy is provided by Royal marsden consultants and nursing staff, who travel from The Royal marsden to Kingston to care for their patients.

The unit is led by Royal marsden Consultant medical Oncologist Dr marina Parton, matron Lorraine Hyde and Service manager Scott mitchell. They attend monthly operational meetings with their Kingston Hospital counterparts to ensure that the unit is functioning at its best and maintaining its excellent standards of treatment and care.

Lorraine says: “The partnership at the unit works well because there is a shared vision of how the service should be delivered. Services are structured with the patient at the heart of everything we do. The relationships of the staff that manage the services are embedded in mutual respect and a strong sense of pursuing clinical excellence.”

The results of a Picker institute patient survey revealed that 100 per cent of patients felt they were treated with dignity and respect while receiving treatment at

Left: Consultant Medical Oncologist dr Marina Parton (far left) is the clinical lead in the sir William rous Unit. Below: dr Parton meets a patient

patients: “We know that we can also deliver this to the patients in collaboration with their local trusts, not just at The Royal marsden. all patients should feel like a Royal marsden patient and that they will receive the same excellent quality of care, but with the added bonus of being able to walk to a centre for their treatment.”

Kate grimes, Chief executive of Kingston Hospital nHS Foundation Trust, says: “Five years on and the Sir William Rous Unit at Kingston Hospital has continued to build on its partnership with The Royal marsden nHS Foundation Trust and macmillan Cancer Support.

“The unit successfully brings cancer care and outpatient chemotherapy treatment under one roof and closer to home for our patients. it is a fantastic facility, and both my chairman and i have been hugely impressed by the expertise and compassion shown by all the staff who work there. The strength of the partnership is clear in the way the staff work together to care for our patients and i hope the unit and its services continue to grow.” rm

Kate Grimes, Chief exeCutive of KinGston hospital nhs foundation trust

The strength of the partnership is clear in the way staff work together

RM16_PG22-25_Rous_groups_FIN.indd 24 23/08/2013 16:02

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RM magazine 25

Hospital groups

The Friends oF The royal Marsden, chelsea

The Friends

This June, for the first time in almost 25 years, the Friends of The Royal marsden, Chelsea, held a Flag Day.

Volunteers Charlotte Duthie and gina Blair organised the very successful charity collection day and, together with more than 80 volunteers, raised more than £5,300, all of which went to The Royal marsden. Feedback about the charity collection was very encouraging and positive.

The Friends have also sponsored the new tables in the Outpatients Department at Chelsea. This provides patients with a more comfortable seating area while they wait for appointments, and the tables are colour co-ordinated to match the hospital’s branding.

Jacquie gulbenkian, Chairman of the Friends of The Royal marsden, Chelsea, said: “The new tables give the area a spacious and more up-to-date look, with a separate area for people to enjoy drinks and snacks from The Friends Café.”

Operation Flag Day

Following a successful year’s trial, The Friends of The Royal Marsden, Sutton, are to continue funding yoga classes at the hospital. The feedback from the classes has been so positive that The Friends will support them for another year.

Juliet Barker, a qualified yoga therapist and former breast cancer patient, holds the weekly sessions for a maximum of six patients at a time. She said: “It is a real privilege to teach at The Royal Marsden in Sutton and

to share what worked for me when I had cancer.”

Most of the patients participating are women, but Jessica Dodwell, Chairman of The Friends, Sutton, was pleased to see two men taking part in the session when she visited. The patients she met commented on how empathetic Juliet was, and that she gave participants individual attention, making everyone feel welcome.

Overseeing the project is Carolyn Moore, Superintendent Physiotherapist at The Royal Marsden. She said: “Patients have benefited

from the gentle stretches and breathing control practised in yoga. This has been helpful in coping with both physical and anxiety-related symptoms, and is also a gentle way to encourage patients to take up regular exercise in the community.”

For more information on the classes, contact 020 8116 3028. No experience is necessary, just medical approval and the ability to get down on the floor and up again. There is a limit of six sessions per patient.

The classes will also be extended to Chelsea, thanks to The Friends of The Royal Marsden, Chelsea.

The day saw 80 volunteers raise more than £5,300, all of which went to The Royal Marsden

The Friends’ Flag day raised

more than £5,300 for The royal Marsden

Sutton Friends to fund yoga classes

Juliet Barker teaches yoga to cancer patients in sessions funded by The Friends

RM16_PG22-25_Rous_groups_FIN.indd 25 23/08/2013 16:02

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Get your walking shoes on for The Marsden March 2014The Marsden March 2014 will take place on Sunday 16 March, with even more supporters than ever before, all walking with a common goal: to raise as much money as possible for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

Five thousand people in total will be taking part in the 14-mile or five-mile walk.

Amanda Heaton, Community Fundraising and Development Manager, said the event was going from strength to strength: “For the past three years, we’ve raised over £1 million, which is going towards scientists searching for cures, world-leading treatments for patients and first-class care, allowing us to excel in our cancer provision.

“All the walkers and volunteers contribute towards the special atmosphere of The Marsden March, which shone through this year despite the grey weather. I hope we have many returning walkers next year, as well as new faces, to experience this great event.”

Registration for the 2014 event opens in October. To reserve places and avoid the disappointment of missing out on a great day, visit www.royalmarsden.org/march

Right: On Sunday 17 March 2013, more than 4,500 supporters, staff, family and friends came together to take on cancer

26  RM magazine

The ROyal MaRSden CanCeR ChaRiTy

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A new campaign chaired by movie star Samuel L Jackson is helping to raise funds for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity.

The actor (pictured below) is Chairman of One For The Boys, a campaign focusing on male cancer awareness. Funds raised by the campaign are being donated to our appeal for a new Diagnostic Imaging Centre at The Royal Marsden in Chelsea. Proceeds from two events to be held in 2014 – a comedy night at Wembley and a fashion event supported by the British Fashion Council – will also contribute.

One For The Boys is the idea of Mr Jackson’s publicist, Sofia Davis. “I was inspired to create this campaign after seeing a friend’s personal tragedy and feeling that such losses could be avoided if men were tested and screened more regularly,” she said. “After visiting The Royal Marsden and seeing the amazing work the staff do for cancer patients, I decided that was the place I wanted to help.

“The proceeds will enable The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity to buy two new MRI scanners, which will allow The Royal Marsden to remain at the forefront of cancer diagnostic imaging.”

RM MAgAzIne 27

Fundraising

Superstar chairs campaign to boost scanners appeal

RH The Duke of Cambridge, The Royal Marsden’s President, has taken part in a charity

polo match in support of The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity – his first public event following the birth of his son, Prince George, on 22 July.

The Audi Polo Challenge was held on 3 August at Coworth Park, Ascot. This year was the fourth time that it has supported the charity.

Cally Palmer, Chief Executive of The Royal Marsden, who attended the event, said: “We were delighted to be one of the beneficiaries, along with Skill Force, of the Audi Polo Challenge. The Duke of Cambridge is so supportive of The Royal Marsden: he has a really hands-on presence at the hospital and takes a particular interest in the children that we treat.

“The support from both The Duke and The Duchess of Cambridge has

been extremely generous, and the spotlight they bring to the hospital and the charity draws more attention to our work to find better ways to diagnose and treat patients.”

TRH Prince William and Prince Harry both played on the Audi Quattro team, which narrowly beat the Audi Ultra team during the tournament. Celebrity guests included actress Gemma Arterton, singer Katherine Jenkins, actor Dominic Cooper and model Lily Cole.

H

Royal support in polo challenge

Above: TRH The Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry either side of polo players Luke and Mark Tomlinson, with Martin Sander, Managing Director of Audi UK (centre)

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28  RM magazine

foundation news

understanding imaging and the research process

he Trust held a members’ event on 22 July, which was hosted

by Chief Operating Officer Dr Liz Bishop and focused on ‘The Future of imaging and Research’.

members learned more about the process for research studies at The Royal marsden in a section led by Dr Theresa Wiseman, the Trust’s Lead for Health Service Research. attendees heard about the importance of patient engagement in each research study and the variety of studies undertaken, as well as the development of new service models through evaluating the role of volunteers

in the medical Day Unit. Dr gina Brown, Consultant Radiologist, then presented on how imaging is changing patient care. members also had an opportunity to tour the new Diagnostic imaging Suite.

The presentations from the event are available to view online at www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/membership

members’ events are free to attend and open to everyone. if you are interested in attending future events, please contact Rebecca Hudson on 020 7808 2844 or freephone 0800 587 7673, or email [email protected]

What Members say about our events...

It is the best way to engage with The Royal Marsden and what is going on in the hospital Anthony SykeS, MeMber

Excellent presentations. I will make every effort to attend future events. It is a privilege to be a MemberJohn Futter, MeMber

T

this photograph: members had the

chance to see the new diagnostic imaging

suite. Below: attendees learn about imaging at

the royal marsden

RM16_PG28-29_Foundation_FIN.indd 28 02/09/2013 15:56

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Foundation news

RM magazine 29

November members’ eveNt The Trust will be holding a Members’ Event in November 2013 at our Sutton site, focusing on the views of patients, carers and the public in research. Members who have indicated that they would like to attend events will receive an invitation nearer the time.

For further details, please visit www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/membership or email Rebecca Hudson at [email protected]

Having served for eight years as a Patient governor, anita gray stepped down from the Council of governors earlier this year.

anita has made an invaluable contribution during her time on the Council and passionately represented the interests of patients. She will continue to support the Trust as a member and is a vice-chair of the Trust’s Patient and Carer advisory group (PCag).

anita said she has enjoyed her time as a governor. She added: “it was great seeing the members who you represent at events. i have always been a keen advocate of patient interests and am proud to continue this support through PCag.”

Farewell but not goodbye

AnnuAl GenerAl MeetinGWednesday 25 September, 5pm

Julian Bloom Lecture Theatre, The Royal Marsden Conference Centre,

Stewart’s Grove, Chelsea

If you would like to attend, please email [email protected]

or call 020 7811 8126

Dates for your diary

Council of Governors Meetingthursday 12 September, 10am–12pm, Board room, the royal Marsden, Fulham road, ChelseaBoard Meeting (Public)Wednesday 25 September, 2pm–4.30pm, Board room, the royal Marsden, Fulham road, ChelseaTo attend, please contact the Foundation Trust Office.

Keep in touchBecome a member or contact your governor:

Freephone 0800 587 7673, telephone 020 7808 2844, email foundation.trust @rmh.nhs.uk or visit www.royalmarsden.nhs.uk/membership

Council by-election: the results are inFollowing the by-election at the end of July, we are delighted to announce that three new Governors have been elected to join our Council.

The new Staff Governors are Dr Claire Dearden, Consultant Haematologist, who will represent doctors; and Maureen Carruthers, Palliative Care Matron, who will represent nurses. The new Patient Governor for Kensington & Chelsea and Sutton & Merton is Colin Peel.

Thank you to the nominees and to all the Members who voted. We look forward to working with the new Governors during their first term to ensure that the views of patient and staff Members continue to be represented at the highest level in the Trust.

RM16_PG28-29_Foundation_FIN.indd 29 02/09/2013 12:05

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30 RM MAGAZINE

Test your witsComplete our crossword and you could win £50 in John Lewis vouchers

PRIZE DRAWS & STAR LETTER TERMS & CONDITIONS: 1. The Prize Draws and Star Letter are open to all readers of RM except employees of the Press Offi ce at The Royal Marsden and Sunday, who produce RM magazine. 2. The closing date for receipt of all entries is Friday 25 October 2013. 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 prizes is correct at time of going to press. 4. Winners will be notifi ed by post within 14 days of closing date. 5. The Promoter’s decision on any aspect of the promotions is fi nal and binding and 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 Star Letter prize of £50 in John Lewis vouchers is the sender of the best letter selected by RM magazine. 9. The winner of the crossword prize of £50 in John Lewis vouchers will be the fi rst correct entry drawn out of the bag. 10. The Promoter is The Royal Marsden Hospital, 203 Fulham Road, London SW3 6JJ.

The lucky winner of our prize crossword will receive £50 in John Lewis vouchers. We also welcome your thoughts on RM magazine and love to hear about your experiences at the hospital. The Star Letter wins £50 in John Lewis vouchers.Send your crossword or letter with your name and contact details to RM, Press Office, The Royal Marsden, Fulham Road, Chelsea, London SW3 6JJ. The closing date for entry is Friday 25 October 2013. See below for prize draw rules.

Win!SUDOKU

PRIZE CROSSWORDAcross 2 Item of clothing (9)6 Levy (3)7 Greatly surprising (7)8 Treasured (6)9 Holds water (4)11 Carriers (4)12 For threading a lace (6)16 Not enhanced (7)17 Religious lady (3)18 Valises (9)

Down 1 Arrangement (3-2)2 Bird (7 )3 Picture (5)4 Public transport (4)5 Constricting (5)10 Rectangles (7)11 Loud noises (5)13 Shouts (5)14 Cares for (5)15 Member of the armed forces (1-1-1-1)

Congratulations to Mrs M Pepper, who won last issue’s crossword prize.

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

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Star LetterDear RM, I have been a patient at The Royal Marsden under the care of Professor Christopher Woodhouse since 2009, when I had my bladder removed due to bladder cancer. I was an inpatient for seven weeks and could not fault any of the staff. I had complications following surgery, but under the care of Professor Woodhouse I always felt safe. He took the time and trouble to explain things to me – I had never experienced such a bedside manner.

I wanted to wish Professor Woodhouse a very happy retirement. He will be sadly missed by all, but I am sure The Royal Marsden will continue to have the best, most caring people working there. Annie Sloan

12

PUZZLES & PRIZES

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Page 31: RM Magazine, autumn 2013

in the next issueRM brings you the latest hospital updates, research news, inspiring

stories and exclusive interviews. The winter 2013 issue is coming soon…

For the royal Marsden

Rachael Reeve – Director of Marketing and Communications Elaine Parr – Head of PR and Communications Naomi Owen – PR and Communications Manager

Belinda Lock – Senior Press Officer Catherine O’Mara – Senior Press Officer Sukhie Deol – Press Officer

For sundayLucy Ryan – Editor Marc Grainger – Deputy Editor Ian Dutnall – Art Director Bryony Bromfield – Senior Account Manager Matt Beaven – Creative Director

Toby Smeeton – Managing Director

RM magazine is published by The Royal Marsden in partnership with Sunday: sundaypublishing.com

© The Royal Marsden 2013. 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 Pureprint.

● Spotlight on lung cancer

● Junior doctors: their training and education

● Molecular diagnostics: how we are leading the way

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Page 32: RM Magazine, autumn 2013

Get involved

December 2013

Celebrate a LifeName a star for a loved one and give a gift to all cancer patients. Request your star at www.royalmarsden.org/star

4–10 November 2013

Winter Fine Art & Antiques FairEnjoy a day out at this prestigious London event and raise money for the charity. Visit www.royalmarsden.org/art

8 December 2013

Santa RunJoin our team and don a Santa suit for this fun-filled 5km or 10km run. Register by 29 November at www.royalmarsden.org/run

16 March 2014

The Marsden MarchWalk with us to take on cancer. Register from 7 October at www.royalmarsden.org/march

6 April 2014

Brighton MarathonWe have guaranteed places, so join our team. Register by 28 February at www.royalmarsden.org/run

26 May 2014

Bupa London 10,000We have guaranteed places, so join our team. Register by 25 April at www.royalmarsden.org/run

June 2014

Jump for usTake part in a memorable parachute jump. Visit www.royalmarsden.org/jump

13 April 2014

Virgin Money London MarathonHave you got your own place? Why not run for us? Visit www.royalmarsden.org/run

2013

2014

Have fun and raise money for The Royal Marsden Cancer Charity. To find out about all

the ways you can get involved and help make a difference to people with cancer, please visit www.royalmarsden.org/do-something

January 2014

My Marsden MarchOrganise your own Marsden March any time, anywhere: www.royalmarsden.org/mymarch

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