Improving and prolonging life after Cancer.
Late Effects Research
I started working for the NHS in July 1997, 20 years ago. Over the last 10 years I have been
employed by Sheffield’s Teaching Hospitals as a Health Care Scientist, Chief Audiologist and during
this time I have become aware of the fantastic work that the Sheffield Charitable Trust carries out.
My Brother Simon Bowes was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in 1991. In 1992, I
gave my brother Simon a bone marrow transplant, some 25 years ago. Without any doubt, the NHS
saved my brother’s life. The doctors, nurses and specialists through the years have performed
medical miracles to enable Simon to have the life he has today.
Although his treatment was such a long time ago he has suffered from the late effects of his
treatment for over 20 years. During this time Simon has received outstanding care from Professor
Greenfield and Professor Snowden. Without their research, little would be known about the side-
effects that can occur months or even years after many cancer treatments. I feel that if I can help
improve awareness of ‘late effects’ by informing healthcare professionals, and friends and family
members of cancer patients, this could make a difference to people’s lives. Being able to raise
money for Professor Greenfield and Professor Snowden to further their research, no matter how
small, will also make a significant difference to their work.
Seeing the challenges my brother faces every day, inspires me to challenge myself. From the 14th of
July to the 16th of July I will cycle 150 miles, off road, which will make this a real challenge. Being 6ft
4inch, and 17 stones, getting fit has taken its time… I will be doing the bike ride with my brother in-
law Daniel Pearce and Paul Exton. We also have a support driver who is my father in-law Roy
Pearce. I have found that motivating myself has been easy, as the cause and challenge is a very
personal one. Many times, over the years I have observed Simon’s health struggles and have not
been able to do anything. Hopefully by doing the coast to coast, raising both awareness and money
could help him and many others in the future and ultimately will improve and prolong people’s lives
after cancer.