From its inception, Topic of Cancer has been driven by passionate individuals dedicated to making a difference in the lives of cancer patients and advancing groundbreaking research. Here’s a look at our journey:
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Our History
2009: The Beginning
Nigel Lewis-Baker, diagnosed with incurable prostate cancer in 2004, approached his friend and cancer patient, John Blackburn, with the idea of creating a support network for cancer patients and their families. Together, they established successful support groups in Bookham, Edinburgh, Dorking, and Guildford.
2013: Official Registration
Topic of Cancer was officially registered as a charity. The focus expanded to fundraising for Professor Hardev Pandha's research team at the University of Surrey, which was pioneering work in the then-emerging field of immunotherapy.
2015: Loss and Legacy
John Blackburn, co-founder, passed away from multiple myeloma. His legacy continued to inspire the charity's work and mission.
2017: ToCFit Fitness Classes Introduced
Fitness classes for cancer sufferers started in Guildford, led by specially trained coaches. These classes, which began with two sessions a week, expanded to five, including Pilates, and are now run by ThriveFit in partnership with ToC.
2017: ToCVoices Choir Created
ToC took over the Guildford Tenovus choir, rebranding it as ToCVoices. This choir, consisting of around 30 members affected by cancer, supports immune health and emotional well-being through the power of singing.
2018: New Chairperson
Anne Powell-Evans joined as a trustee and became the chair, bringing her leadership and vision to the charity.
2019: New Leadership
Nigel Lewis-Baker stepped down, making way for new leadership and ideas. He remains proud of his role as a co-founder and was awarded an MBE for his services to people with cancer.
2019-2021: Kim Ronaldson’s Chairmanship
Kim Ronaldson chaired Topic of Cancer with remarkable energy and enthusiasm until his unexpected death in April 2021. His innovative ideas and positive spirit significantly benefited the charity.
2022-2023: New Trustees
Professor Adam Frampton, James Thurlow-Craig, Anna Hunter and Dave Chuter joined as trustees, bringing fresh perspectives and renewed energy to the charity.
2024: Sad Passing
The charity mourns the loss of co-founder Nigel Lewis-Baker in 2024. His dedication and vision continue to inspire our mission.
Our Mission
The Future of ToC
We are committed to paving the way for the development of even more effective therapies in the future.
Our long-standing investment in fundamental research of the immune system has led to considerable advances in cancer immunotherapy. Researchers continue to explore new strategies to outsmart cancer cells and bolster the immune system’s ability to combat them.
The present generation of cancer immunotherapies has shown promising results, but our research continues, paving the way for the development of even more effective therapies in the future.
Get Involved
Join our fight
Donate Today!
For as little as the cost of a coffee each week, you can help us get one step closer to a cure. Every donation powers life-saving research and provides vital support for cancer patients. Together, we can make a real difference.
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A huge thank you to the support our partners continue to give us.
