An emotional and inspiring evening unfolded at the Cure Leukaemia Leeds ATICUS event this week, as families, clinicians, and supporters came together to champion a bold new initiative to transform treatment for children with blood cancer.
The evening was marked by powerful stories —all in support of the ATICUS Network, a pioneering new clinical trials infrastructure aimed at improving outcomes for young blood cancer patients.
Dr Beki James, from Leeds Children’s Hospital, took to the stage to explain the importance of the ATICUS network, which is set to deliver world-first clinical trials for children. Speaking passionately about the urgency of the work, she said:
“It’s not an underestimate to say that the network will improve outcomes for children.”
The power of clinical trials was brought to life by Jo and Jude Hawkridge, whose story moved many in the room. Jude, diagnosed with blood cancer in 2020, was given a second chance through access to a trial.
“Jude is living proof that clinical trials work, they do save lives,” Jo shared, as she described their family’s journey through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
In one of the night’s most emotional moments, Natalie Sadler spoke with bravery and grace about her daughter Arabella, who tragically lost her life to blood cancer earlier this year. Her heartfelt testimony brought home the critical need for progress.
“I know Arabella would want us to support this and be there and do what we can do to support,” Natalie said. “And if it means that another child doesn’t die in the future, then that’s a fitting legacy for Arabella.”
Cure Leukaemia’s Chief Executive James McLaughlin underlined the urgency of funding the network, revealing that two world-first trials are ready to open for children, thanks to the ATICUS infrastructure. He spoke of how the charity’s Club 10 initiative is driving the funding behind this essential work.
As the event came to a close, one message rang clear: the ATICUS network represents real hope—not just for better treatments, but for survival. It will only become a reality through continued support.
Businesses and individuals who are inspired to be part of this life-changing mission and help give hope to children and families facing blood cancer are encouraged to reach out to Bhupinder Dhillon to find out how they can get involved.
Chief Executive James McLaughlin is lacing up his trainers once more for one final run, taking on his toughest test yet—running over 10 marathons in 14 days for a total of 270 miles with no rest days, running through 29 blood cancer centres across the UK where the charity supports through clinical trials networks
George Lineker, entrepreneur and long-time supporter of Cure Leukaemia, will once again take on the epic London 2 Paris cycling challenge this June, marking a decade since he first completed the ride in 2015, raising vital funds for Cure Leukaemia.
