Chinwag - Autumn 2019

Staff news

Remembering Marc Abraham Colleagues have been remembering nutrition specialist Marc Abraham who died suddenly in June aged 37.

pharmaceutical companies invited him to work with them as a reflection of the esteem with which he was held. Marc established his research niche in a very short space of time. Importantly, he realised the importance of disseminating his knowledge. He demonstrated that he was both a versatile and able teacher, teaching on multiple courses, supervising medical and dietetic students and contributing to specialist consultant training. He was an exceptional team player. Colleague and friend Professor Was Mansoor said: “Throughout his time at The Christie, Marc was simply a joy to work with and will be dearly missed. Apart from being dedicated to his work and research, he will be remembered for his big smile and never ending generosity with the time he gave to people as a friend. He gave patients hope where hope had faded and added quality to people who sorely needed it. He entertained us with his sharp wit and had that rare quality of being willing to laugh at himself to make others around him happy. “Of course, the loss of Marc leaves a big gap in all our lives. That gap cannot be precisely filled because it belongs to Marc Abraham who was unique. We wish him all the best in the next part of his journey.” Everyone at The Christie sends sincere condolences to Marc’s family and loved ones. Plans are underway to hold a service of remembrance to Marc here at The Christie at a future date. Details will be announced when they are available.

Marc began work at The Christie as a specialist oncology dietitian in December 2015. He trained in Nutrition Science at the University of Nottingham (undergraduate degree) and in dietetics at King’s College, London (master’s degree). It was clear from the beginning that he had far greater ambition

than being a ‘run of the mill’ dietitian (his words). He was passionately enthusiastic about making a difference for his patients by improving their quality of life and increasing their treatment options. He was also determined to influence improvements to his profession both nationally and internationally. He rapidly established an indispensable service for our patients, became one of the most popular members of a large team and was well known throughout the hospital. He developed a firm foundation of research linking nutrition issues to cancer survival. He successfully published his findings and was invited to speak at one of the most prestigious oncology meetings in 2018, the European Society of Medical Oncology, which he did with great clarity and flair. He has a number of manuscripts submitted which are undergoing peer review for publication currently which we will be seen through to completion on his behalf. There has been great interest in his research both in the UK and abroad. Multiple collaborators and Happy retirement Farewell to kitchen porter Paul Lamb who has retired after more than 20 years service.

Weekly exercise class Our physiotherapy team in the rehabilitation unit have launched a weekly exercise class for breast cancer patients who are receiving radiotherapy to the chest wall. Stiffness is a recognised side effect following radiotherapy which can limit a patient’s upper limb function. Performing specific stretching exercises can help combat this. The class also promotes general exercise to assist patients with their recovery.

to the wards and has always made time to speak to staff and suggest

Paul had previously worked for many years as a highly skilled French Polisher but had decided on a change of career. He quickly fitted into the catering team and has provided a dedicated service ever since. Paul has always engaged with colleagues across the Trust, particularly when delivering the milk or breakfast baskets

ways that we may be able to look at recycling or reducing waste in different areas. Paul, who is 71, now intends to enjoy his hobbies including art, tennis and travel.

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