The Yorkshire Stars campaign from Yorkshire Cancer Research launched in Leeds yesterday evening with a stunning visualisation of stars projected onto the front of the Thackray Museum of Medicine.
The stars represent the 600 people who are diagnosed with cancer each week in Yorkshire alone, and highlight the pioneering medical research being funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research in the region.
The campaign gives people the opportunity to dedicate a star to anyone affected by cancer or who has been a part of their cancer experience, whether that be a researcher, a nurse or a supportive friend.
Each star can be dedicated with a personal message and will be hosted in an online gallery as well as displayed on a Christmas tree in the Yorkshire Cancer Research shop in Harrogate. Stars can also be printed out to display at home or to give to a loved one.
The campaign launch was attended by Dr Kathryn Scott, Chief Executive at Yorkshire Cancer Research. She said:
“This campaign gives people the opportunity to celebrate someone who has recovered from cancer, thank those who have shown their support, recognise someone going through treatment, or remember a loved one who is sadly no longer with us. It’s an opportunity to recognise them at what is traditionally a reflective and celebratory time of year.
“We’re looking forward to running the campaign again, shining a light specifically on the essential research being carried out in Leeds to help prevent, diagnose and treat cancer. This research is possible thanks to the funding generated by supporters across Yorkshire through campaigns just like this one, which will help save lives in Yorkshire.”
Richard Foster, a deputy head teacher from Leeds, knows first-hand how important this pioneering research can be. He was invited to a lung screening funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research which led to his diagnosis with cancer.
Richard said:
“I can’t overstate the impact that Yorkshire Cancer Research and the Leeds Lung Health Check project has had on my life. Without a doubt, it saved my life.”
Luckily, the cancer was found early when it was easier to treat, and Richard had surgery to remove it. The Yorkshire Stars campaign aims to shine a light on the importance of continued research to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer to help more people like Richard.
Professor Mat Callister, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and Honorary Professor at the University of Leeds, said: “Without funding from Yorkshire Cancer Research, the Leeds Lung Health Check programme simply would not have been possible. Thanks to the support of people across Yorkshire, we’ve not only had the opportunity to save lives in Leeds by finding lung cancer early, but we’ve also played a key role in changing lung cancer care nationally by providing the evidence needed to bring lung screening to people across the country.
“We’re looking forward to supporting the charity’s Yorkshire Stars campaign this Christmas by paying tribute to all those affected by cancer and thanking all the people who have helped support vital research in Yorkshire. The Leeds Lung Health Check demonstrates the direct impact the charity’s work is having on patients living right here in the region.”
To dedicate your own Yorkshire Star and support lifesaving research, please visit: ycr.org.uk/yorkshirestars
