The All Party Parliamentary Group on Children, Teenagers and Young Adults with Cancer (APPG CTYAC) is a cross-party group which is raising awareness and representing young people who have been personally affected by cancer
The APPG AGM was held on Wednesday 5 December and our young ambassador Laura, was invited to speak and share the impact of being diagnosed with a brain tumour as a child.
She spoke passionately about her own experience and championed the drive for increased support for education for all those affected.
The APPG is supported by CLIC Sargent and Teenage Cancer Trust. The group launched a new report, Listen Up!, in July which explored patient experience and helped to illustrate the challenges faced by young people with cancer.
Speaking about the event, Laura said: “The day was generally exhausting but I felt that I made an impact. I talked about the difficulty of getting a statement for extra educational support; something which has meant that I have been able to progress.
“I also talked about PIP and the DVLA which are really important issues for the brain tumour community.”
Laura spoke powerfully in front of MPs, policymakers and also highlighted her personal experiences to David Fitzgerald (NHS Cancer Programme Director, pictured).
It was a really important day and it is really encouraging that the unique experiences of children and affected by brain tumours are being recognised in this forum at the heart of government.
Our Young Ambassador programme is an important part of ensuring that we help to accelerate change for young people affected by brain tumours.
We couldn’t make such an impact without the support and willingness of our Young Ambassadors, including Laura who regularly speak out on behalf of the brain tumour community so well.
Find out more information about our Young Ambassadors.