In 2008, Fatima, 45, from South London was diagnosed with Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS), an aggresive blood cancer that can prove fatal within six to twelve months.

The only curative option is intensive chemotherapy followed by stem cell transplantation - a treatment programme that many sufferers are physically unable to cope with, leaving few options other than life extending treatments such as blood transfusions to manage the debilitating symptoms.

In March 2009, Fatima was offered a place on a clinical trial at KCH testing an innovative new drug called Vidazas that targets the genetic errors in faulty cells that cause cancer. The drug has been hailed as a major step forward in prolonging and improving the lives of patients with incurable cancer.

Professor Ghulam Mufti, Clinical Director for haematological medicine at KCH, and one of the first haematology experts to study Vidaza in clinical trials in the UK said:
“Here at KCH it is imperative that we pioneer clinical trials such as those testing Vidaza – this breakthrough therapy offers patients the chance to live symptom-free for longer than previous care has allowed."

Despite the obvious benefits of these progressive clinical trials the NHS is unable to fund such experimental treatments. With your support KCH can fund further trials and invest in the people and equipment needed to make real progress in the treatment of patients with few other options.

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