Christine Skinner, a 69-year-old retired professor and nurse from York, is now cancer-free two years after completing radiotherapy treatment for rectal cancer. She participated in the APHRODITE clinical trial, funded by Yorkshire Cancer Research, following her diagnosis.
The APHRODITE trial, led by Professor Ane Appelt at the University of Leeds and Professor Simon Gollins at Bangor University, aims to determine if a higher dose of radiotherapy than standard could increase the chance of cancer disappearing completely. The goal is to offer more people successful treatment without the need for surgery.
Ms Skinner, who was diagnosed two years ago after noticing changes to her bowel habits, opted for the trial over other treatment options, including major surgery. She underwent five and a half weeks of radiotherapy, travelling from York to St James's Hospital in Leeds daily. She reported experiencing only minor side effects towards the end of her treatment, which were soon resolved.
Regular tests since completing her treatment have shown no evidence of cancer. Ms Skinner highlighted the importance of clinical trials in improving treatments, stating that new approaches are only improved by testing and volunteer participation.