Limerick academic honoured for cancer research programme

A RESEARCHER based in the Technological University of the Shannon has been honoured with an award from the Irish Cancer Society.

Jennifer Fitzpatrick was awarded the prize of PhD Researcher of the Year, for her project titled, The Childhood and Adolescent Cancer Survivors’ Physical Activity and Movement Programme (CHAMPs).

The programme is the first of its kind globally, and was developed in collaboration with families, to support young people (aged 10 to 19 years) who have had cancer. 

CHAMPs is a free, personalised, 12-week physical activity programme, based entirely in the young person's home and guided by their ability and interests for activity.   

Jennifer said: “Receiving a nomination for an Irish Cancer Society Research Award is such an honour. It recognises me dedicating the last four years of my work to improving the lives of young people who have had cancer. Seeing first-hand the impact CHAMPs can have on families is incredibly emotional, but also extremely rewarding.  

“I am truly grateful for the platform to develop a global first-of-its-kind programme for young people who have had cancer, but to also be recognised for this achievement is such a privilege.” 

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People involved in ground-breaking research projects around the country were honoured at the Irish Cancer Society Research Awards on Thursday, February 20, at the Irish Cancer Society Head Office in Ballsbridge, Dublin. 

As well as Jennifer Fitzpatrick, Dr Karen Slattery earned the award for Translational and Clinical Project of the Year.

Her research identified new therapeutic targets for the treatment of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. 

The event, hosted by the Irish Cancer Society’s Head of Research, Dr Claire Kilty, celebrates some of the amazing work in cancer research being carried out by nominees around Ireland, funded by the Irish Cancer Society.   

Congratulating the winners, Dr Claire Kilty said: “Cancer research in Ireland has a huge impact on the lives of people affected by cancer. It is a driving force in improving not only treatments and outcomes, but in quality of life beyond cancer. It was fantastic to get an appreciation of the amazing cancer research projects currently happening right across the country.” 

Daffodil Day takes place on Friday, March 28, and is an opportunity for everyone to support vital research carried out by the Irish Cancer Society.