A message from our Patron – Ken Reid.

I am delighted and honoured to become Leukaemia & Lymphoma NI’s patron, because I passionately believe that the Charity’s research is the key to creating more effective treatments for the thousands of local people like me, who are living with blood cancer. 

The charity’s research helps people with blood cancer to know that whilst there is currently no cure it is possible to treat and enjoy a decent life.  In these troubled times of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is reassuring to know there are people fighting our cause as science and knowledge saves lives.

I passionately believe that the research carried out in Belfast is the key to creating more effective treatments for the 100 people every month that are diagnosed with blood cancer in Northern Ireland.  The research that the Charity supports is prolonging and saving lives. In my case my Leukaemia may be incurable currently but can be controlled.

Covid has really impacted on a lot of people.  Patients like me have to live with frustration and concerns around shielding and what impact it may have on our treatments. However, all we can do is follow the advice from health experts for our good and that of our friends and family.

As well as keeping efforts going to raise funds some of the researchers from Leukaemia and Lymphoma NI have been seconded to work on helping to create treatments and vaccines against Covid.  

Covid has had a harsh impact on the Charity’s efforts to raise funds for blood cancer research. The team has found innovative ways to carry on their efforts to raise funds for blood cancer research from climbing Slieve Donard, doing long walks to baking cakes and exercise challenges all from their own homes. When times are better I may even dust off the football boots!

All of these efforts are greatly appreciated as we find new ways to sustain support for the level of excellence in cancer research in Northern Ireland which is fantastic!