Leeds Christmas Charity Fundraiser press release

Christmas celebrations at Teenage Cancer Unit

Christmas comes early for children in the Teenage Cancer Unit at St James Hospital. SkinGenesis swap their clinical uniforms for festive fairy outfits and visit young people who will be spending this Christmas in hospital.

On 22^nd December, staff from SkinGenesis, a Leeds-based clinic which provide effective, affordable, non invasive, safe and natural skin treatment to correct skin flaws, rejuvenate skin and get rid of unwanted hair, will be taking Christmas presents to the children’s ward and helping to put a smile on the children’s faces.

Patients from the Leeds-based clinic have been helping staff to raise funds for ‘santas sack’ via a referral system set up by the clinic.

Emma Parrish, Marketing Director, SkinGenesis: “We are over the moon to have been invited by the staff and young people at Jimmies – we are really looking forward to meeting everyone and seeing them enjoy their party”.

Sue Morgan, St James’ University Hospital:  “The Teenage Cancer Trust Unit would like to thank SkinGenesis for their fantastic efforts to raise money for our teenagers this Christmas.  We all look forward to the Christmas party here, there is a disco, a buffet, Karaoke, and Father Christmas.  It is an opportunity for us to celebrate everything that they have achieved over the year”.

Notes to Editors:

The Teenage Cancer Trust Unit a specially designed service that delivers expert medical, therapeutic, supportive and social care in a ‘home from home’ setting.  The unit has six beds, with future plans to expand and is for young people age 13 - 24 years who need treatment for different types of cancer.  On average there are 50 new patients a year referred from across the region.  Often their treatment can last for many months, and sometimes even years, and, depending on their treatment, can spend a lot of time in hospital.  Macmillan clinical nurse specialist for teenagers and young adults, Sue Morgan:  “It is part of our job to make things as 'normal' as we can for them, and this includes involving their families, carrying on with their education and having a social life by keeping up with their friends.  Patients are provided with information about all aspects of their disease and its treatment, in ways that will be understood by them.  They are encouraged to lead and direct their treatment, aided by professionals.  In essence the service aims to give all these young people a ‘voice’ and a ‘choice’ in their care”.