Cancer Research UK (CRUK) shared a post on LinkedIn:
“After 20 years working at Cancer Research UK, in April 2019 Lucy faced a personal diagnosis: breast cancer.
Shortly after her diagnosis, Lucy joined our Personalised Breast Cancer Programme (PBCP), which uses a special genomic testing technique to ‘read’ cancer cells like barcodes to determine the most appropriate treatment for individual patients. In Lucy’s case, this was a combination of chemotherapy and a targeted drug called Herceptin, which our researchers helped develop.
After six months of treatment, Lucy had surgery to remove her remaining tumour and a few nearby lymph nodes, followed by three weeks of radiotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
“I was one of the lucky ones who had a complete pathological response to chemo – meaning no discernible cancer cells after surgery,” Lucy explained. By seeing her GP immediately after discovering a lump and then receiving targeted treatment, this contributed to Lucy having a smaller operation.
Lucy’s story shows the potential of targeted, personalised cancer therapies. However, access to personalised cancer treatment varies and the Government’s upcoming National Cancer Plan for England must ensure that has everyone access to the best possible treatment, regardless of where in the country they live.
Thank you Lucy for sharing your experience and helping us drive progress through your work.”
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