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GUINEA PIG MATTHEW Parents urged to join Matthew’s lead
HELPING RESEARCH: KGH nurse Sonia White with Matthew and his mum Tracy, from Wellingborough. A 13-YEAR-OLD Wellingborough boy and his mum are taking part in clinical trials to assist in a national campaign promoting health research. And they are hoping their example will encourage others to join them. Matthew Letts, a patient at Kettering General Hospital (KGH) has a kidney disorder called nephrotic syndrome, which can cause a build-up of fluid in his body. At KGH,
a campaign is being driven by the hospital’s first-ever paediatric research nurse, Sonia White. Matthew, and his mum Tracy Englefield, are taking part in a clinical trial which involves extended treatment in the hope that it will reduce the number and duration of the occasions when his body has relapses. Tracy said: “About a year ago, Matthew started to de-
velop swelling in his legs and around his eyes. We visited our GP and found out it was nephrotic syndrome. “When we found out about the chance to help with the research we were happy to help so that better treatments for the disorder can be found in the future.” Matthew added: “I think it’s good to do what you can to help with research. Since I was diagnosed I have been on the internet re-
searching my illness, chatting with lots of people in America and Europe with the condition. It makes you feel better to know that you are not alone and that things are being done to improve treatments.” Matthew is a patient of consultant paediatrician Dr Harsha Bilolikar, who said: “Matthew is involved in a two-year research project to see if a more intensive treatment and monitoring regime can reduce the frequency and duration of any relapses he might have with the illness. “As a result, his mother will do daily monitoring tests which will help us discover how effective this style of treatment is and if it should be recommended to others. Close monitoring and prompt treatment should also benefit Matthew’s health and well-being.” Nurse Sonia White added: “Clinical research is a vital part of the work of the NHS. It provides evidence about what works so that treatments for patients can be improved.”
ISSUE 35 6 September - 20 September
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FOR THE LOVE OF CHELSEA Birthday tribute from cancer victim’s sister A TEENAGER from Irthlingborough is shaving her head in memory of her little sister Chelsea, who lost a battle with cancer aged three. Thirteen-year-old Shannon Knighton is hoping to raise more than £1,000 for the Chelsea’s Angel’s charity – set up to increase awareness of childhood cancer, as a tribute to little Chelsea. The headshave takes place on Monday, September 9, which would have been Chelsea’s eighth birthday. It takes place at Through The Looking Glass Hair Salon in High Street, Irthlingborough, at 4.30pm. A family spokesman said: “This is a brave act from a young lady who has seen first-hand what cancer does to people, especially little children.” Chelsea lost her brave battle with rare childhood cancer neuroblastoma in August 2009. The family set up the charity to help children diagnosed with the condition and other rare cancers. Supporters are being encouraged to give £2, by texting ‘SHAZ13 £2’ (or change the amount to whatever you wish to donate) to 70070.
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