More than 100 people attended an online event on 2nd March 2021 for patients, carers and those affected by cancer across the East of England.
‘Let's Talk About Cancer’ was the first virtual event of its kind hosted by the East of England Cancer Alliances.
In an opening address, Nick Hulme, chair of the North Cancer Alliance and Chief Executive at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust, spoke of his personal and professional insights into cancer and emphasised the importance of time, and of listening to what matters most to cancer patients.
Key speakers were renowned cancer expert and author, Professor Robert Thomas (pictured), consultant oncologist at Bedford and Addenbrooke's Hospitals, and cancer survivor Dr Daksha Trivedi, a scientist, academic and lecturer at the University of Hertfordshire, who now works to support cancer patients and to reach more diverse groups.
NHS colleagues and partner organisations, including Macmillan, ran a number of breakout sessions to engage with patients on subjects including reducing inequalities and talking with children about cancer.
Marion Foreman and Ray Anderson, Co-Chairs of the Cancer Alliance Patient Advisory Board said: "The event aimed to listen and hear the voices of patients.
"They have told us it worked well so we hope it will be the start of many more opportunities for the Cancer Alliances to reach and engage with more culturally diverse groups and listen and act upon the voices of patients from across our communities."
Some of our videos from the event are provided below: