On International Childhood Cancer Day on 15th February, we reflect on the progress of the past 12 months and recognise the urgent work still ahead. Every day, more than 150 children worldwide are diagnosed with blood cancer, making it one of the most common cancers affecting children and teenagers. Our mission remains clear, to raise awareness, and revolutionise treatment for children battling this disease. This day serves as a global call for better treatments and international collaboration to drive meaningful change.
Understanding Blood Cancer in Children
Blood cancer continues to impact the lives of thousands of children each year. In the UK alone, over 500 children receive this devastating diagnosis – equating to four children every single day. Despite advances in research, many young patients still lack access to cutting-edge treatments due to geographical barriers.
The ATICUS Network is leading the charge in changing this reality. As the world’s first global paediatric transplant trials network for children with blood cancer, it aims to provide equitable access to clinical trials and ensure that no child is left behind in the search for life-saving treatments.
A Year of Milestones
One year ago, we announced our vision for The ATICUS Network on BBC Breakfast, alongside Professor Rob Wynn from Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and Matt Gaut, one of our ATICUS Ambassadors, whose son, Harry, tragically lost his life to blood cancer aged 6. This moment marked the beginning of an ambitious plan, the creation of a national clinical trials network dedicated to delivering innovative treatments and improving outcomes for children with blood cancer.
Six months later, Cure Leukaemia officially launched The ATICUS Network, an initiative designed to bridge the gap between pioneering research and the children who need it most. By uniting the UK’s leading paediatric clinicians and research nurses, The ATICUS Network is committed to advancing clinical trials that will redefine treatment practices and improve survival rates for children undergoing stem cell transplants. Operating across major cities, including Manchester, London, Birmingham, and Glasgow, this initiative strengthens the national approach to childhood blood cancer treatment and research.
Currently, access to clinical trials remains inconsistent, often dictated by geography rather than medical need. Many families face the heartbreaking reality of relocating to access the best available care – an additional burden during an already difficult journey. The ATICUS Network seeks to end this postcode lottery, ensuring that every child, regardless of where they live, has an equal opportunity to participate in life-saving trials. The ATICUS Network will cost £1 million per year to ensure its success and sustainability in providing this crucial service for children. The £1 million is essential to drive the network’s mission forward and deliver these life-saving opportunities to every child in need.
A Call for Urgent Funding
Two world-first clinical trials are ready to launch through The ATICUS Network, offering the potential to revolutionise treatment and save lives. However, these trials are currently on hold due to a lack of funding. Without urgent financial support, children across the UK are being denied access to groundbreaking treatments that could dramatically alter their prognosis.
Since launching The ATICUS Network, we have spoken with countless families who have shared their personal struggles. Many have expressed how, if this initiative had been in place earlier, their child’s outcome might have been significantly different. These stories underscore the critical need for investment in research and treatment accessibility.
Join Us in Making a Difference
On this International Childhood Cancer Day, we call on individuals and businesses to take action in support of The ATICUS Network. Your donations will make a direct and lasting impact on children fighting blood cancer. By funding this network, we can transform paediatric cancer treatment – not only in the UK but globally. Every contribution counts in advancing this crucial initiative. If you would like to donate and make a difference, please do so via this link. Your support can help change the future for children battling cancer around the world.
If you would like to learn more about The ATICUS Network and how you can help fund this pioneering network via Club 10, please reach out to Bhupinder Dhillon, our Business Development Manager on bhupinder@cureleukaemia.co.uk
Running 25 marathons in 25 days to raise funds for Cure Leukaemia. Starting on April 27th with the London Marathon and finishing on May 21st in his hometown of Hull, Sam is pushing his physical and mental limits to support life-saving research.
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