“BCRT has demonstrated what many other charities lack or lose and that is respect and recognition of those affected by cancer, and provides a voice and a chance to make a real difference.” That’s what one visitor thought about this year’s BCRT Conference. It’s just one of the positive feedback comments we received following a well-attended and vibrant event. The theme of this year’s conference was delayed diagnosis, something which many young bone cancer patients experience. It was extremely interesting, therefore, to hear from GP Dr Bob Grant about the research being done in this area.

There was also a presentation from prosthetist Carl Elliott on amputee rehabilitation; a talk about fertility issues for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiotherapy by expert Dr Allan Pacey; and updates about medical developments into the treatment of primary bone cancers, as well as information about research being funded by the BCRT.

The conference is a great opportunity for patients and their families to meet other people in similar situations. As well as break-out sessions, when parents, patients and medical professionals divided into smaller groups to discuss topics such as ‘Coping with Loss’, “Life after treatment’ and ‘Ewing’s Sarcoma – current issues’, there was also chance to chat to speakers and delegates over lunch and coffee breaks. As one patient told us, coming to the conference gave them “the realization that I am not alone.”

We were delighted that patients also accepted our invitation to speak, including former osteosarcoma patient Hannah Millington. Hannah came to our 2007 conference while she was still undergoing treatment, so it was fantastic to see her looking so well as she took to the floor to tell her moving story.

Also making her conference debut was little Holly Hurst – who at just eight months old – accompanied her mum, Sally Hurst. Sally, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma in 2005, was told she was infertile following cancer treatment, but she gave birth to Holly in October 2007 against the odds.

There’s no doubt that this year’s conference was a great success – both in highlighting the fundraising and research activities of the BCRT, and in enabling patients and families to share experiences. As one delegate said,

“Thank you to everyone who organised the event and to all who took part. Your input was very empowering and encouraging to us.”

So come along to our next conference and experience it for yourself!