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Susan's story

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Susan's story

30 Jul 2025 Share this article

Susan talks about her father, his diagnosis and why she fundraises for SGCUK

Salivary Gland Cancers

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about 2 days ago 💻 Join our monthly Salivary ‘Stop by’ sessions on Zoom! Running in 2025 – no agenda, just drop in and chat with people who get it. 🗓️ 4 Aug, 1 Sep, 6 Oct, 3 Nov, 1 Dec (7–8 pm). Email [email protected] to get your link. These informal drop-ins are a chance to ask questions, share, or just listen. We’d love to see you there 💙 #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #SupportSessions #Community @SGCancerUK

For professionals navigating the complexities of salivary gland cancer, ensuring comprehensive patient support is paramount. Beyond clinical treatment, peer-to-peer connection offers invaluable emotional and practical benefits.

Salivary Gland Cancer UK is committed to providing this vital layer of support. Our monthly "Salivary 'Stop by'" Zoom sessions offer a unique, informal space where patients and carers can drop in, share experiences, gain insights, and find solidarity with others who truly "get it." These sessions are unscripted and designed for open dialogue.

We encourage healthcare professionals to signpost patients to this free and accessible resource. It's a powerful way to augment the care you provide, helping your patients build resilience and feel connected within a supportive community.

Scheduled for 2025 (all 7-8 PM BST):
🗓️ August 4th, September 1st, October 6th, November 3rd, December 1st

To receive the Zoom link and learn more about how these sessions can benefit your patients, please email admin\@salivaryglandcancer.uk.

#SalivaryGlandCancer #PatientAdvocacy #OncologyCare #PatientResources #SupportNetworks
@sgcanceruk

about 7 days ago A little reminder of hope, even in difficult moments. If today is tough, hold onto the small lights. You’re not alone 💙 #SGCUK #CancerSupport #Hope #OscarWilde #MentalHealthMatters @SGCancerUK

about 10 days ago In this heartfelt video, Susan Morrison shares her personal story of losing her father to Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma, a rare form of salivary gland cancer first diagnosed in 2012. She speaks with love and honesty about the man her dad was, the impact of his illness, and why she now supports Salivary Gland Cancer UK in his memory. Susan continues to raise funds and awareness so that others affected by this rare cancer feel seen, supported and better understood. We are so extremely grateful to her for sharing his story and standing with us. Watch the full video on our YouTube: #SalivaryGlandCancer #SGCUK #AdenoidCysticCarcinoma @SGCancerUK

about 13 days ago Stay informed and connected with Salivary Gland Cancer UK. Sign up to our email newsletter and be the first to hear about events, support, research news and ways to get involved. Join our network today: #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #CancerCommunity #Newsletter @SGCancerUK

📬 Stay connected with Salivary Gland Cancer UK

Our email newsletter keeps healthcare professionals, researchers, patients and advocates informed about the latest in salivary gland cancer.

Be the first to hear about:
✅ Upcoming events
✅ Research updates
✅ Support initiatives
✅ Collaboration opportunities

Whether you're working in oncology, head and neck care, rare cancer research or patient advocacy, we welcome you to be part of our growing network.

Sign up today:
https://lnkd.in/eeJ5zEYe

#SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #RareCancer #OncologyCommunity #CancerResearch #ProfessionalNetwork #CancerAwareness #HeadAndNeckCancer #Newsletter @sgcanceruk

about 16 days ago An inspiring story 💙 This survivor shares how focusing on small goals and positive thoughts helped during recovery from adenoid cystic carcinoma. These stories remind us how much strength lives in the people behind the diagnosis. Read more: #SGCUK #AdenoidCysticCarcinoma #CancerSupport #PatientStory @SGCancerUK

about 17 days ago Lace up your running shoes for an incredible cause! 🏃‍♀️🏃‍♂️ We're inviting you to take on The Big Half Marathon on Sunday, September 7th, 2025, and help us raise vital funds for Salivary Gland Cancer UK! This vibrant, inclusive half marathon celebrates the diversity of London, taking you through Tower Hamlets, Southwark, Lewisham, and Greenwich, starting at iconic Tower Bridge and finishing by the Cutty Sark. No entry fee – just commit to fundraising! It's a fantastic opportunity to challenge yourself, experience London, and make a real difference for those affected by salivary gland cancer. Ready to run for a reason? Sign up today and join our team! Every step, every mile, helps us support patients and fund crucial research. ➡️ EMAIL now to secure your spot and start your fundraising journey for Salivary Gland Cancer UK - [email protected] #TheBigHalf #LondonHalfMarathon #RunForACause #SalivaryGlandCancerUK #CharityRun #Fundraising #CommunityRun #CancerAwareness #ChallengeYourself #LondonEvents @SGCancerUK

about 21 days ago 🧬 Pathologists at the The University of Sheffield have provided an overview of the new RCPath dataset in the journal Diagnostic Histopathology. Professor Ali Khurram, one of the lead authors, offers insights into new classification challenges and what this means for diagnosis and treatment. 👉 Read more about this major advance in our new article: @shefunihealth #SalivaryGlandCancer #CancerResearch #Pathology #RareCancer #RCPath #TargetedTherapy @SGCancerUK

about 23 days ago Did you know some treatments for salivary gland cancer can affect our ears and hearing? Hearing difficulties can occur during radiotherapy or as a late-onset side effect some months or even years after treatment. Not everyone who has radiotherapy in the head or neck will experience problems with their hearing. The dose and type of radiation therapy used, as well as the location of the tumour site are all factors that affect how likely it is that hearing loss develops. Learn more about how treatment affects our ears and hearing: #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #HeadAndNeckCancer #CancerAwareness #tinnitus @SGCancerUK

The UK's Royal College of Pathologists (RCPath) has updated its guidance for reporting salivary gland cancers following publication of the 5th edition of the World Health Organisation (WHO) classification of Head and Neck tumours.

The WHO has classified 15 types of benign tumours and 21 types of malignant tumours of the salivary glands. These classifications are crucial for standardising cancer reporting methods and advancing diagnosis and treatment.

Pathologists at the The University of Sheffield have provided an overview of the new RCPath dataset in the journal Diagnostic Histopathology. Expert Pathologists across the country contributed to these guidelines, led by Professor Ali Khurram.

👉 Read more about this major advance in our new article:
https://lnkd.in/eYKAcsDc

#SalivaryGlandCancer #CancerResearch #Pathology #RareCancer #RCPath #TargetedTherapy #hnc @sgcanceruk

about 29 days ago 📣 Want to help raise awareness of salivary gland cancer? Our shareable resources make it easy to spread the word and support our work. From social graphics to info sheets, you can help amplify the message in your community and online. Every post shared makes a difference. Explore and download: #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #CancerAwareness #GetInvolved @SGCancerUK

Some treatments for salivary gland cancers can affect your ears and hearing.

Hearing difficulties can occur during radiotherapy or as a late-onset side effect some months or even years after treatment.

In many cases where some hearing loss occurs, symptoms begin to develop in the first two years after treatment ends.

Not everyone who has radiotherapy in the head or neck will experience problems with their hearing. The dose and type of radiation therapy used, as well as the location of the tumour site are all factors that affect how likely it is that hearing loss develops.

Learn more about how treatments for salivary gland cancer can affect the ear and hearing:
https://lnkd.in/eVnQTEYf

#SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #HeadAndNeckCancer #RareCancer #Oncology #CancerAwareness #MedicalEducation #ENT #Pathology #HealthcareProfessionals #tinnitus @sgcanceruk

about a month ago To celebrate world head and neck cancer day on July 10th, we will be holding a webinar about Mucoepidermoid Carcinoma (MEC). 🗓 When: Thursday 10th July 2025, 4-5pm UK time 💻 Where: Online via Zoom – join from the comfort of your home! 👥 What to Expect: ✨ Friendly and informal presentation and discussion ✨ A chance to connect with others who understand ✨ Helpful resources Email [email protected] to join. #MucoepidermoidCarcinoma #SGC #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancerAwareness #CancerSupportCommunity #CancerAwarenessCampaign @SGCancerUK

about a month ago Exciting news from the University of Queensland, where researchers have secured major funding for a 3-year study to develop a new treatment strategy for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). Investment in new treatment strategies is crucial, especially for rare and under-researched cancers like salivary gland cancer. Every breakthrough starts with research like this. We welcome continued global efforts to improve outcomes for people affected by cancer and look forward to seeing where this work leads. Read more: #CancerResearch #SalivaryGlandCancer #SGCUK #MedicalResearch #CancerCare #InnovationInHealth #adenoidcysticcarcinoma #acc @SGCancerUK

about a month ago Thank you so much Suzie Morrison for all your support. It was amazing to finally meet you in person at our last gathering🥰. @SGCancerUK

about a month ago It's National Patient Data Day Today we’re recognising the power of patient data to drive real change in healthcare. For rare cancers like salivary gland cancer, patient data is especially important. It helps researchers understand patterns, improve treatments, and highlight where support is most needed. At Salivary Gland Cancer UK, we believe in the value of evidence, the importance of collaboration, and the power of every patient story. To learn more about how patient data can shape the future of care, visit: 🔗 www.usemydata.org.uk #NationalPatientDataDay #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #PatientData #DataSavesLives #CancerAwarenes @SGCancerUK

about a month ago Hosting something social? Make it count for Salivary Gland Cancer Day 💙 Not into sports or big physical challenges? That’s completely fine. There are so many fun and meaningful ways to get involved just by bringing people together and that's the most important thing about Salivary Gland Cancer Day. Think movie night, karaoke, bake sale or a games evening with friends. Whatever you enjoy doing, you could even turn it into a fundraiser that supports vital research, awareness and care. It’s your event, your way, all for a good cause. Get inspired and find out how to get involved: #SGCDay #SalivaryGlandCancerDay #SGCUK #CancerAwareness #FundraisingForHope #SupportSGCUK #DoItYourWay #MakeADifference @SGCancerUK

about a month ago Promising News in Cancer Treatment! Royal Oak Hospital is piloting Proton Arc Therapy, a new type of treatment that could offer more precise and less harmful care for people with cancer. This approach uses a sweeping arc of proton radiation to better target tumours while protecting healthy tissue. For people with rare and complex cancers like salivary gland cancer, treatments like this could help improve outcomes and quality of life. It's encouraging to see innovation focused on patient-centred care. We’ll be following this closely. #CancerInnovation #ProtonTherapy #ProtonArc #SalivaryGlandCancer #SGCUK #CancerResearch #PatientFocusedCare @SGCancerUK

🔬 New Research Blog: Tracheal Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma (ACC)

Why does studying tracheal ACC matter? And how can biobanks help researchers make progress in such a rare and understudied cancer?

Our latest blog explores the importance of understanding tracheal ACC, the role of tissue donation, and how research can lead to better care and outcomes for patients.

For rare cancers like this, every sample and every study counts.

📖 Read the full update:
https://lnkd.in/e9jzzM-8

#SalivaryGlandCancer #ACC #TrachealCancer #RareCancer #SGCUK #CancerResearch #Biobanks #ResearchMatters #adenoidcysticcarcinoma @sgcanceruk

about 2 months ago Take on Swim Serpentine for SGCUK! 🏊‍♀️ There are places still available! Ready for an unforgettable challenge in the heart of London? Join Team SGCUK at this year’s Swim Serpentine and help us raise vital funds for research, awareness and support for those affected by salivary gland cancer. 🏊‍♀️ Choose your distance 📍 Swim in the iconic Serpentine, Hyde Park 💙 Be part of something meaningful Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or looking for a new challenge, we’d really love to have you on board. 🗓️ Event date: 14 September 2025 Find out more and register today: #SwimSerpentine #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #FundraisingChallenge #CharitySwim #MakeWavesForChange #CancerAwareness @SGCancerUK

Take on Swim Serpentine for SGCUK! 🏊‍♀️
There are places still available!

Ready for an unforgettable challenge in the heart of London? Join Team SGCUK at this year’s Swim Serpentine and help us raise vital funds for research, awareness and support for those affected by salivary gland cancer.

🏊‍♀️ Choose your distance
📍 Swim in the iconic Serpentine, Hyde Park
💙 Be part of something meaningful

Whether you’re a seasoned swimmer or looking for a new challenge, we’d really love to have you on board.

🗓️ Event date: 14 September 2025
Find out more and register today:
https://lnkd.in/eahuntjj

#SwimSerpentine #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #FundraisingChallenge #CharitySwim #MakeWavesForChange #CancerAwareness
@sgcanceruk

about 2 months ago Looking Back On ESMO Rare Cancers 2025 💙 What a fantastic and productive conference #ESMORareCancers25 was earlier this year! Dr Metcalf delivered an excellent mini oral presentation on behalf of our UK Salivary Gland Cancer Research Working Group (UKSGCRWG), titled: “Advancing Salivary Gland Cancer Research: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Addressing the Unmet Clinical Need.” We were also proud to present a second piece of work by another UKSGCRWG member: “Clinical Trials for Patients with Salivary Gland Cancers: A Systematic Review of Worldwide Registers and an Evaluation of Current Challenges.” It was a privilege to connect with colleagues across Europe and the US, and to share our vision for collaborative, multidisciplinary progress in salivary gland cancer research. Events like ESMO Rare provide an invaluable platform for sharing knowledge, exploring new therapies, and driving forward meaningful change in rare cancer care. We’re already looking forward to what 2026 brings. #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #RareCancers #CancerResearch #Oncology #UKSGCRWG #ESMO #ESMORareCancers25 #CollaborativeScience #ClinicalTrials #HeadAndNeckCancer #ResearchMatters @SGCancerUK

It's National Patient Data Day on June 24th, recognising the power of patient data to drive real change in healthcare.

At the inaugural event in Leeds, hosted by use MY data, Emma will be leading a panel to discuss 'How can we establish a UK-wide data environment to help in the research of less common diseases, where a multi-nation view is essential?'. She will be joined by LifeArc's Rebecca Cosgriff and Jo Gumbs from Ocular Melanoma UK for what promises to be an insightful and productive session.

For rare cancers like salivary gland cancer, patient data is especially important. It helps researchers understand patterns, improve treatments, and highlight where research and support is most needed.

You can register to attend here: https://lnkd.in/ekVykEm6

At Salivary Gland Cancer UK, we believe in the value of evidence, the importance of collaboration, and the power of every patient story.

To learn more about how patient data can shape the future of care, visit:
🔗 www.usemydata.org.uk

#NationalPatientDataDay #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #PatientData #DataSavesLives #CancerAwareness #NPaDD2025 @sgcanceruk

about 2 months ago After undergoing radiotherapy for adenoid cystic carcinoma, artist Alex Orange Drink has released a powerful new single, Everything Is Broken — a raw and honest reflection on navigating treatment, uncertainty and the emotional weight of cancer. Through music, Alex turns vulnerability into strength, sharing a message that will resonate with many in our community. “I didn’t know if I’d ever sing again... This was the first thing I wrote when I tried.” Listen to the track and read the story behind it: #SalivaryGlandCancer #AdenoidCysticCarcinoma #SGCUK #CancerAwareness @SGCancerUK

about 2 months ago On June 1st, we took time to think of everyone who has lived through a cancer diagnosis, including so many in our salivary gland cancer community. This day is about recognising what it takes to move forward after treatment. The strength it takes to heal, adjust and carry on. Every journey is different and every step matters. If you've finished treatment, are still being monitored, or just figuring things out as you go, we see you. We're with you. And if you feel like sharing your story, we’d love to hear it, either in the comments or by dropping us a message. #NationalCancerSurvivorsDay #SGCUK #SalivaryGlandCancer #CancerAwareness #LifeAfterCancer #SupportCommunity #StrongerTogether @SGCancerUK

about 2 months ago Facing salivary gland cancer can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone.💙 Whether you are newly diagnosed, going through treatment, or in remission, our community is here to support you every step of the way. We understand the emotional and physical challenges, and we are here to help you stay strong and resilient. Reach out, connect with others who truly understand, and remember that we are all stronger together. #SupportMatters #StrongerTogether #SalivaryGlandCancer @SGCancerUK

At the ABPI/PMCPA code partnership event we were delighted to share our collaborative work with Roche, co-producing genomics leaflets for patients.

The leaflets we created are free to download from our website, specifically designed to be clear and understandable for all and, explain why genomic profiling is important and how it can help patients https://lnkd.in/ebh9-xMU. Later this year we will be updating the leaflets so don't hesitate to get in touch if you'd like to work with us on this.

The meeting showcased three very different, but truly great, Industry-Charity Partnerships. We were delighted to be joined by Crohn's & Colitis UK who partnered with J&J Innovative Medicine Europe, Middle East & Africa (EMEA) and, Black Women Rising UK who partnered with Gilead Sciences.

Our thanks go to the The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) and PMCPA for hosting the event, Karen Wood for co-presenting with Emma Kinloch and, all those who support, facilitate and do the hard work to ensure the success of these hugely important collaborations.

👏

Tariro Kabba Mearns & Pike Ltd Leanne Pero MBE Hannah Hart Kate Downey The Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) Amit Aggarwal Brian Duggan Victoria Bates

#ABPI #PMCPA #salivaryglandcancer #co-production #collaboration
#ppi #genomicprofiling #genomics #blackwomenrising #crohns #rarecancerresearch @sgcanceruk

A constructive and informative session hosted by Department of Health and Social Care to share our knowledge and expertise and, shape the National Cancer Plan.

Our thanks to Cancer52, all our rare cancer charity colleagues, Ashley Dalton MP and the Department of Health and Social Care for their engagement, and commitment to collaboration and informed decision-making.

We look forward to future discussions and as always, stand ready to help.

#NationalCancerPlan #RareCancer #Salivaryglandcancer #collaboration #cancercharity @sgcanceruk

about 2 months ago Exciting progress in salivary gland cancer research 💙 Researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine have used artificial intelligence to identify a promising new therapeutic target for adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) – a rare and difficult-to-treat form of salivary gland cancer. By analysing tumour samples with advanced AI tools, scientists discovered that targeting an enzyme called PRMT5 could help slow cancer growth. In early lab studies, a drug called PRT543 showed encouraging results in reducing tumour size. While this is not yet a cure, it marks an important step towards more effective treatments for ACC. Read more about the research here: #SalivaryGlandCancer #ACCUK #CancerResearch #AIinMedicine #HopeThroughScience #SGCUK @SGCancerUK

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