Cure Leukaemia’s launches the ATICUS Network in Manchester

On Wednesday evening, the ATICUS Network in partnership with Cure Leukaemia was officially launched at the PwC offices in Manchester, in an event attended by businesses, clinicians along with a number of patients and their families. The event marked a pivotal moment in the charity’s mission to revolutionise treatment options for children with blood cancer across the UK, following the announcement of the eleven hospitals that will form the ATICUS network.

The network aims to accelerate access to life-saving and less harmful treatments for children suffering from blood cancer, and this launch event brought together some of the most passionate voices in the fight against the disease. Throughout the evening, attendees heard from medical experts, advocates, and families who have been directly impacted by blood cancer, each underscoring the importance of Cure Leukaemia’s work and the promise of the ATICUS network.

21 Years of Progress: A Reflection from Professor Charlie Craddock CBE

One of the evening’s highlights came from Cure Leukaemia co-founder Professor Charlie Craddock, who reflected on the charity’s 21 years of pioneering work in blood cancer treatment. Professor Craddock discussed the major strides that have been made in treatment options and how Cure Leukaemia has facilitated access to groundbreaking clinical trials across the UK. He emphasised that ATICUS represents the next phase in this journey, with the network designed to ensure children have access to potentially life-saving treatments as early as possible.

“The ATICUS network is a transformative development that builds on our past successes,” Craddock stated, “but it also opens the door to future breakthroughs in treating childhood leukaemia. With more hospitals involved and better coordination, we can speed up the delivery of advanced therapies to children who need them the most.”

Professor Rob Wynn: Bringing Hope to Children with Blood Cancer

Professor Rob Wynn from Manchester Children’s Hospital also spoke passionately about the significance of the ATICUS network. He highlighted how this initiative will provide children with access to clinical trials and cutting-edge treatments that are both more effective and less harmful than traditional methods.

“By establishing this network,” Professor Wynn explained, “we are not only increasing the survival rates of children diagnosed with blood cancer but also improving their quality of life during and after treatment. This is about giving children access to the best possible care and giving families hope.”

Emotional Testimonies from Families

The evening was made even more impactful by the emotional testimonies shared by families who have been affected by childhood blood cancer. Craig and Jess Tanser, parents of three-year-old Willow, who was diagnosed with blood cancer, gave a heartfelt speech about their journey. They spoke about their fears, hopes, and how the establishment of the ATICUS network gives them a renewed sense of optimism for the future of treatment for children like Willow.

Rowan Marriott, who’s son Jack was diagnosed with blood cancer aged 12, shared his passionate story of seeing his son go through the gruelling treatments available, and how Jack beat blood cancer through a treatment on a clinical trial.

Matt Gaut also took to the stage to share the devastating story of losing his son Harry to blood cancer. Matt’s powerful words underscored the importance of research and the urgent need for networks like ATICUS, which give children a better chance of survival. “I’m incredibly proud to support the ATICUS network, because it represents hope – hope that no other family has to go through what we did.”

An inspiring appearance from Hughie Higginson and his best friend Freddie Xavi. Hughie, a young blood cancer survivor, has become a symbol of resilience and determination, inspiring many with his fundraising efforts to support children affected by the disease. Together, Hughie and Freddie have raised thousands for Cure Leukaemia and continue to advocate for better treatment options for children. Their appearance was a reminder of the real impact that Cure Leukaemia and initiatives like the ATICUS network can have on young lives.

A Call for Crucial Funding

As the night drew to a close, attention turned to the immediate challenge facing the ATICUS network: funding. With two world-first clinical trials ready to launch, the network is poised to deliver life-saving treatments for children across the UK – but it urgently needs financial support to make this a reality.

In a video message shared during the event, football legend and Cure Leukaemia Patron Gary Lineker emphasized the importance of securing the funding required to open the network. Lineker voiced his support for the charity’s Club 10 initiative, which aims to raise £1 million annually through businesses in the cities linked to the ATICUS network. By pledging £10,000 per year, companies can help unlock these groundbreaking trials and give children with blood cancer access to the treatments they so desperately need.

“It’s incredibly important that businesses step up and support the ATICUS network,” Lineker said. “The difference this network can make for children facing blood cancer is immense, and through initiatives like Club 10, we can give these children a fighting chance.”

 The evening was closed by Cure Leukaemia CEO James McLaughlin, who had just completed his awe-inspiring Run The Nations challenge, where he ran 224 miles to raise awareness and funds for the ATICUS network. McLaughlin delivered a powerful message to the business community, urging them to act now to support the network.

“We should not be waiting for children to be diagnosed before we start fundraising. It’s wrong that we wait until the problem arises before doing something about it. The ATICUS network is a solution ready to go—it just needs the funding to make it happen. Together, we can change the future for children with blood cancer.”

The launch of the ATICUS network represents a major leap forward in the treatment of childhood blood cancer. By connecting hospitals across the UK and increasing access to clinical trials, Cure Leukaemia is ensuring that more children can benefit from cutting-edge therapies that can save lives and reduce the long-term side effects of treatment.

The event at PwC’s Manchester offices was a powerful demonstration of how collaboration between hospitals, businesses, and advocates can lead to life-changing progress.

Cure Leukaemia’s commitment to research, innovation, and care continues to offer hope to families facing the most challenging of diagnoses, and the ATICUS network stands as a testament to the charity’s relentless pursuit of a cure for blood cancer.

To find out more about how you can support the ATICUS network and to join Club 10, click here.