Celebrities back Teenage Cancer Trust’s ‘Stop Cancer Destroying Teenage Lives’ appeal

The stars posed for pictures bearing the appeal slogan at a recent event, where they also met young people who had been supported by Teenage Cancer Trust and talked about the importance of ensuring that crucial age-appropriate care is available for young people with cancer.  

The current healthcare crisis is impacting young people with cancer. Cancer waiting times across the board are at an all-time high and getting a diagnosis is taking longer.  

These delays - combined with external pressures such the cost-of-living crisis - can have devastating long-term impacts on young people’s physical and mental health, if they do not receive the right care and support from the moment they are diagnosed. 

Actor Charlotte Ritchie, who stars in shows including Ghosts and You, said: “I think Teenage Cancer Trust is an unbelievable charity supporting so many young people going through not only being a teenager, but having to face cancer too.” 

DJ and producer Joel Corry said: “I support Teenage Cancer Trust because my mum was diagnosed when I was 15 years old, and my best mate had cancer when she was a kid. So it feels like a charity that’s always been close to my heart.  

“It’s so important the work the team does for young people, to make sure they have that support system in place. I remember when I grew up, I was so lucky to have you an amazing experience and when I’ve talked to people who have gone through what they’ve gone through, I can’t believe they’ve done it and they’re so strong. So it’s so important the team at Teenage Cancer Trust can support them through that difficult time.” 

Emmerdale star Eden Taylor-Draper said: “I support Teenage Cancer Trust because they changed my family’s life. My little sister was diagnosed with cancer and Teenage Cancer Trust were amazing. I truly think the reason our family stuck together through that horrific time is all down to that, 100%. So please join me in supporting this amazing charity and together we can make sure that no young person has to face the trauma of cancer alone.” 

2,600 young people a year are diagnosed with cancer, with this number set to rise. Cancer rates in young people in the UK have gone up by a quarter since the early 1990s. By 2030, it’s projected that the number of young people living with a cancer diagnosis will be 65% higher. 

Each young person who is diagnosed with cancer will need specialist age-appropriate nursing care and support to get them through it. Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to meeting this vital need. 

With more young people being diagnosed with cancer, combined with current healthcare challenges, the ‘Stop Cancer Destroying Teenage Lives’ fundraising appeal comes at an important time. 

Money raised from the appeal will help to provide tailored care and support designed specifically for young people with cancer. 

Paul McKenzie, Director of Engagement at Teenage Cancer Trust, said: “It is an increasingly difficult time for teenagers and young adults who are diagnosed with cancer in the UK today. 

“Young people with cancer are navigating a complex healthcare system while grappling with economic challenges. They need specialised care now, more than ever, to prevent a future crisis. 

“Support from Teenage Cancer Trust ensures that young people have someone in their corner who understands their individual needs, both medically and personally.” 

As part of the appeal, people who have been supported by Teenage Cancer Trust have been sharing their experiences, highlighting the impact that receiving specialist care has had on their lives.  

They will also talk about the potentially devastating consequences if this care and support was not available. 

To donate to the appeal, click here.