Two lymphoma patients from Leicester are set to share their touching bond as part of a series of emotive TV adverts for Cancer Research UK this Christmas.
The two mums struck up their friendship whilst receiving treatment at the Leicester Royal Infirmary. Their relationship is captured in a short film as part of the charity’s ‘Right Now’ campaign, which aims to highlight the reality of cancer for patients, their family and friends.
Jude Price, a former primary school teacher and mum of two from Loughborough, was diagnosed in March this year with a rare form of lymphoma. After intense chemotherapy and a stem cell transplant in September, she is now in remission but needs a further transplant in the New Year.
Jude said: “It was all very bizarre. I was recovering from my stem cell transplant on the ward when a film crew came in and asked if they could film me chatting to a friend.
“In the middle of something so dark and bleak, to be able to do the film and have a laugh and a giggle was the absolute highlight of my time in the Bone Marrow Unit. Every single day small steps are made by researchers in the fight against cancer. Those small steps will create big changes.”
Mandie Stace, from Melton Mowbray, was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma in May. She received three rounds of standard chemotherapy before having to undergo more aggressive treatment.
Mandie said: “We’re both really proud to be part of the Cancer Research UK’s Right Now campaign. The advert captures a little moment from our cancer experience. We hope it will move people and make them smile, as well as inspiring them to take action to help fund vital research.”
The short, documentary-style films are made up of real life moments in the lives of real patients and hope to encourage a call to action from supporters.
Jane Redman, Cancer Research UK spokesperson for Leicestershire, said: “We’re so grateful to Mandie and Jude for their sharing their story.
“Cancer Research UK’s doctors, nurses and scientists are working hard to find new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease. We hope these films will inspire people to take action, right now, and play their part in helping to beat cancer sooner.”
One in two people in the UK will be diagnosed with cancer at some stage in their lives. The ‘Right Now’ campaign is part of a wider range of activities to raise awareness and support for Cancer Research UK.
Jane added: “There are so many ways to get involved. From signing up to Race for Life, donating items to one of our shops or giving time to volunteer. We’re calling on people in Leicestershire to show their support and help even more people survive.”
Jude and Mandie’s film will be aired from 26 December to 22 January 2017 and they will also appear on a range of posters displayed on roadside billboards across the UK from 2 – 15 January 2017.
By Jennifer Morris
