Essential cancer trials (From Western Telegraph)

Essential cancer trials

Essential trials are being carried out at Withybush Hospital, in the on-going battle against breast cancer.

The Welsh Cancer Trials Network, which began in February, is a joint initiative funded by the National Assembly and Cancer Research UK.

These crucial trials, the first of their kind in Pembrokeshire, will offer invaluable results that will lead to improved and refined treatment for cancer patients.

Statistics produced by Cancer Research UK, suggest that around 41,000 women are diagnosed with breast cancer each year, and that one in nine women will be affected by the disease during their lifetime.

Carol Thomas, a research nurse, who is working on the trials at Withybush Hospital, said: "I think the trials are important for advances and further care, to give patients the opportunity to have access to those treatments now."

Mrs Thomas, who worked as a ward sister for 12 years, has a vital part to play in the trials. The most rewarding part of her job is being with the patients and being able to offer which ever level of support they require.

"Everyone is different and it is my role to meet their needs and be there to support them at all times," she said. It is her constant source of comfort in trying to alleviate any fears they may have that has been a crucial part of the treatment.

Karen Davies, press officer for Cancer Research UK, said: "When you meet Carol you immediately feel the warmth that she gives to all her patients. She is an inspiring lady."

One patient who has taken advantage of the trials is 52-year-old former midwife, Mrs Anne Jenkins.

Mrs Jenkins, from Roch, was diagnosed with breast cancer in November 2002, and has been taking part in the TACT (Taxotere as Adjuvant Chemothe-rapy) breast cancer trial, which will recruit a staggering 3,340 patients over the next two-and-a-half years. "I took the trials because, as I used to be a member of the nursing profession, I understood the advances being made and you want to profit from that," Mrs Jenkins told the Western Telegraph.

Although Anne Jenkins completed her treatment a couple of weeks ago, she will continue to have follow-up treatment and will maintain a close bond with Carol for years to come. "I've found that it has been a nice back-up to have Carol there. I know that she is at the end of the phone if I need her and just knowing that there's someone there is so important."

CANCER Research UK is launching a pink-themed fundraising drive and is urging people across Wales to Get in the Pink next month.

The campaign, which is for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, is an essential way of raising funds in the fight against breast cancer.

This year alone, Cancer Research UK has provided a staggering £304,734 for essential trials, and has promised further funding until November 2004. Mrs Anne Jenkins knows only too well the importance of Cancer Research UK and is proud to support this crucial campaign.

"It is something I've always believed in, even before I had cancer, I've always been a big supporter of cancer research. "If there was not the funding, advances would not be made. Through fundraising it gives a better life span and better opportunities."

For more information on how to Get in the Pink, contact Cancer Research UK fundraising office on 02920 224386, or you can visit their website at www.cancerresearchuk.org/breastcancer.