Striking a blow to Cancer

A DEVON scientist is rallying people to Stand Up To Cancer and help save lives. Professor Willie Hamilton, who has been working on early cancer diagnosis for over 20 years, is based at the University of Exeter.

He donned a pair of bright orange boxing gloves to encourage men and women to strike a blow against cancer by raising money for vital research. He is pictured here with legacy manager Stuart Amey, who is raising funds himself by taking part in an amateur boxing match this winter. Every hour, around 90 people are diagnosed with cancer in the South West*.

Professor Hamilton, who is funded by Cancer Research UK is urging everyone to join him and Stand Up To Cancer, to support life-saving research. Stand Up To Cancer unites scientists, celebrities and communities.

It’s supported by a host of stars including Davina McCall, Edith Bowman, Alan Carr, Joel Dommett and Kirsty Allsopp with a live show going out on Friday 26 October on Channel 4. Money raised for Stand Up To Cancer helps take developments from the lab and transform them, quickly, into brand new tests and treatments for cancer patients.

He said: “Research is cancer’s number one enemy. Stand Up To Cancer helps fund clinical trials and research projects which pack a punch in the fight against the disease. “This research is crucial, but also very expensive. That’s why I’m calling on the county’s fundraisers to get fighting fit and help doctors and scientists speed through breakthroughs for the benefit of cancer patients in Devon and across the UK.” Since it was launched in the UK in 2012, Stand Up To Cancer has raised over £38 million to support life-saving research.

This includes the development of the ‘chemo-package’ to deliver treatment at the best time for the patient; investigations into whether exercise can prevent cancer from returning and using MRI to turn radiotherapy into a more precise, personalised and powerful anti-cancer weapon. Professor Hamilton added: “When it comes to cancer we need to box clever.

By boosting funding right now, the best research teams will be able to develop innovative new treatments, bring cures faster and save more lives.” Alison Birkett, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Devon, said: “It’s time to make a stand and get payback on cancer for all the people whose lives have been cut short by this devastating disease.

“There are lots of fun ways to join the fight. You can get creative in the kitchen, get sponsored to stand out in orange at work or school or take part in a sponsored wax or head shave. A free fundraising pack is available, full of fun and creative ways to conjure up crucial cash.” She continued: “We are in a ‘golden age’ for cancer research and every pound raised by Stand Up To Cancer takes us a step closer to beating the disease. We will never throw in the towel. We believe this is a fight that we can win.”

People in Devon can also show their support for the campaign in style as a fun range of clothing and accessories for men, women and children is available now online and at Cancer Research UK shops from late September. Stand Up To Cancer will culminate with an unforgettable night of live television on Friday, October 26. To get involved visit standuptocancer.org.uk