This marks the first episode of the 2024 'Not Just NE Cancer' podcast series. Host Catherine Bouvier and guest Peter Gwilliam reflect on the last 21 years of Neuroendocrine Cancer UK. Peter, the Chair Trustee of Neuroendocrine Cancer UK and co-founder, shares insights into the organisation's evolution.
In the late '90s, after Peter's wife Liddy received a diagnosis, their journey unfolded. Liddy, a Comedy Director known from 'Drop the Dead Donkey,' faced a turbulent diagnosis of neuroendocrine cancer, then known as Carcinoid. Recognising the lack of information and experiencing the isolation of an uncommon cancer diagnosis, Peter, Liddy, and a small group established a support network, envisioning a close-knit community offering mutual support.
Following Liddy's passing, Peter was determined to carry on their work. In 2006, Peter met with two neuroendocrine cancer patients, Andy Geech and Catherine Kalamis, along with Catherine Bouvier (now Neuroendocrine Cancer UK's CEO). At the time, Catherine was a specialist neuroendocrine (NET) nurse. This meeting led to the creation of the charity then known as NET Patient Foundation.
In this episode, Catherine and Peter offer a glimpse behind the scenes, unraveling the history of Neuroendocrine Cancer UK. They emphasise the role and significance of charity trustees, tracing the journey from the inaugural support group meeting in Birmingham in 2002 to a helpline receiving a handful of calls to now supporting the entire nation with over 200 support groups.
Twenty-one years later, despite numerous achievements, challenges persist in achieving earlier diagnosis and awareness. Catherine and Peter delve into some exciting projects and campaigns planned for 2024.
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