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Grandfather's Plea: Childhood Cancer Needs Urgent Funding
3 Feb
Summary
- Gyles Brandreth's grandson was diagnosed with a rare cancer at 15 months.
- Childhood cancer treatment often uses drugs developed decades ago.
- GOSH Charity funds vital support and research for pediatric cancer.
Gyles Brandreth recently shared the profound shock his family experienced when his grandson, Kitt, was diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma at 15 months old in April 2017. This rare soft tissue cancer affects fewer than 60 children annually in the UK. Kitt underwent extensive treatment, including chemotherapy, at Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH).
Brandreth described the long journey, noting his previous misconception that cancer primarily affected older individuals. He emphasized the reassurance provided by GOSH's world-class reputation and the exceptional care from the medical team. During treatment, Kitt developed a life-threatening condition affecting his liver, highlighting the slow pace of scientific advancement in some areas of pediatric oncology.
Kitt received the all-clear in November 2017 and has been in remission for eight years, with yearly check-ups. Brandreth is now supporting GOSH Charity's campaign for a new Children's Cancer Centre, aiming to fund more advanced and kinder treatments, as many current therapies were developed in the 1970s.
