Emotional TV brain cancer plea leads to meeting with PM
Scottish athlete, Archie Goodburn, who was diagnosed with three inoperable brain tumours two years ago, met Andy Burnham after an appeal for more investment into brain cancer resea
By BBC News
Scottish swimmer Archie Goodburn has met Prime Minister Andy Burnham after making an emotional television appeal for greater investment in brain cancer research.
Goodburn was diagnosed with three inoperable brain tumours at the age of 22. He later used an appearance on BBC Breakfast to call for faster progress in research and better access to new treatments.
The meeting took place at Downing Street and also involved Health Secretary Yvette Cooper.
Following the discussion, the Government announced an immediate review of progress in brain cancer treatment and research since 2018. The review will be led by Professor Anthony Chalmers and is expected to report within three months.
Ministers also said a national action plan would follow, with the aim of moving promising treatments from laboratories to patients more quickly.
A national clinical lead for brain cancer is also due to be appointed by the Department of Health and Social Care. The role will be responsible for helping drive the work forward.
Goodburn welcomed the announcements, saying patients and families had been calling for change for years.
The swimmer’s campaign has focused on improving outcomes for people living with brain tumours and ensuring they can benefit from clinical trials and new treatments.
The review led by Professor Chalmers is the next confirmed step in the Government’s response.