The Big Cancer52 Conversation, June 2025

Cancer52 hosted The Big Cancer52 Conversation in Canary Wharf, London on 24th June 2025.

This was the sixth Big Cancer52 Conversation, bringing together a diverse group of patients, leaders, advocates, researchers to spotlight the urgent needs and opportunities in tackling rare and less common cancers. The day was filled with powerful speeches, insightful panels, and meaningful conversations that underscored the importance of collaboration, innovation, and patient-focused action.

Rare Cancers Bill and Cancer landscape

The day started with a stimulating discussion on what had been achieved in parliament this year with the Rare Cancers Bill. Dr Scott Arthur MP, who nominated the private members bill, and Cameron Miller of The Brain Tumour Charity.

Natalie Berry, Senior Adviser to the Chief Executive at The King’s Fund, delivered a thought-provoking keynote that explored the broader health policy landscape.

Panel 1. The National Cancer Plan

This was followed by a superb panel session, chaired by Rachel Downing (Target Ovarian Cancer). This panel brought together Rubina Ahmed (Blood Cancer UK), Richard Davidson (Sarcoma UK), and Tamara Kahn (Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK). The discussion focused on the current National Cancer Plan and its potential in addressing the needs of rare cancer patients.

Networking and ‘Marketplace’

During lunch, attendees enjoyed networking and explored marketplace stalls featuring innovative research, patient support initiatives, and advocacy campaigns. Thank you to members: Anthony Nolan, Myeloma UK, Leukaemia UK, WMUK, Teenage Cancer Trust, Ella Dawson Foundation, Young Lives vs Cancer, Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK, AMMF – The cholangiocarcinoma charity, Melanoma UK and LSN for their role in the Marketplace.

Panel 2: Unlocking Potential Through Research

Chaired by Sophie Castell, CEO of Myeloma UK, this session delved into the transformative power of research. Helen Bennis (Ipsos), Dr Louise Carter (The Christie NHS Foundation Trust), and Dr Jennifer Harris (AstraZeneca UK) shared insights on how data, innovation, and collaboration can accelerate progress. The panel emphasised the need for inclusive clinical trials and the importance of translating research into real-world impact for patients.

Our second keynote speaker, Clive Jones MP, a cancer survivor and the first MP to call for a national cancer strategy, spoke candidly about his own journey and the gaps he encountered in care.

Panel 3: Speaking Up, Shaping Change

We then had the opportunity to focus on the power of patient voices. Judith Neptial (From Me To You – The Art of Survival) and Carys Cox (Teenage Cancer Trust Youth Advisory Group) joined Chair Barbara Fountain (Young Tongues), to share moving stories of resilience and advocacy. The panel highlighted the importance of co-designing services and policies with those who have lived experience, ensuring that progress is truly patient-led.

Cancer52 are grateful to our panellists, participating members, and all those who attended the Big Cancer52 Conversation and made the day such a success.