December 2021 Newsletter

There are fewer pages in our Newsletter this time, because our dedicated research team at St George’s have produced their own update on the research they’ve carried out over the last 12 years or so.
There’s a copy enclosed, which we hope you will find informative. Some of it is “technical”, but it shows the extent, complexity and variety of the work they’ve undertaken and the number of people involved. The paragraph headed “Future Research” gives details of an exciting new potential treatment for pancreatic cancer and we look forward to updating you next year. None of this research could have been carried out without your generosity as we couldn’t do what we do without you! Many thanks from all the Trustees.

You’ll see several photos of Ella in the St George’s update. In this photo, that’s her second from the right, with Androulla on her left alongside Virginia Bates and Les Biggs at a recent Trustees’ Meeting. Androulla, who heads the research, and Ella work extremely well together and we’re fortunate to have such a great team with a good rapport. But it’s difficult to retain experienced, ambitious researchers like Ella. We’re working hard to generate funds to keep Ella with the team beyond July 2022, as she will be seeking a post which enables her to achieve a PhD (a doctoral research degree and the highest level of academic qualification available). A PhD takes around three years and costs around £120k. If we can keep Ella with us for that time working alongside Androulla, it will really help to move our research forward and at the same time give Ella a platform to get her PhD. We’re not in the habit of making direct appeals to our donors but feel this is worthy of being brought to your attention.

Once again, a quick mention of Amazon Smile. Many thanks to those of you who
signed up and nominated our Charity. We’ve had regular donations from the Amazon Fund and it’s a good way to generate funds without it costing you money! Our Fund is registered with AmazonSmile and can be selected as your chosen Charity on the checkout page of their website.

And in case you’re not aware, Virgin Money Giving has ceased operations and will no longer take donations, now that they no longer sponsor the London Marathon.

Best wishes to all of you for the festive season and a healthy and happy New Year. Please stay safe and once again, many thanks for your support.
The Trustees.
December 2021