As well as working to raise awareness of the early symptoms of oesophageal cancer, Heartburn Cancer UK supports projects that aim to increase early diagnosis, advance clinical practice and contribute towards training the next generation of clinicians.   

In this, our most recent video, HCUK Trustee, Professor Tim Underwood talks about his role as Surgical Speciality Lead for oseophageal cancer at The Royal College of Surgeons of England and the links that he and HCUK therefore have at AUGIS (Association of Upper Gastrointestinal Surgery of Great Britain and Ireland), bringing together surgeons, specialist nurses, dietitians, support workers and allied professionals who care for those who have disorders of the Upper Gastrointestinal tract.

HCUK's inextricable link to these projects as a result of Tim's work and to wider availability of The Cytosponge through work undertaken by Professor Rebecca Fitzgerald, will have a long term impact on diagnosis and care of those with oesophageal cancer, increasing early diagnosis and ultimately saving lives.  

Fundraising for HCUK

Tim has been supporting HCUK for many years and one of his hobbies is cycling.  Since 2018 he has organised an annual cycle challenge to raise funds and awareness for Heartburn Cancer UK. The first ride took him and 12 of his friends from Geneva to Turin.  The ride took 4 days and involved over 11,000 meters of climbing.

In 2019 they stepped it up a gear and 10 of them cycled over the Alps from Grenoble to Nice,  taking in some of the iconic climbs from the Tour de France including, Alpe D'Heuz, The Izoard, Col du Var and Cime de la Bonette (2800m altitude). 

Sadly, due to the pandemic there was no challenge in 2020 but we are delighted to have been able follow Tim's recent trip to Wales, raising both funds and awareness whilst cycling 887km and climbing nearly 15,000 meters.  

There are plans in the pipeline for 2022 and an epic challenge 2023 to mark Heartburn Cancer UK's 20th anniversary - watch this space!