WATC magazine March 2025

Welcome

A word from the executive editor

Hello, I’m pleased to welcome you to the second edition of our new staff and patient magazine, We are The Christie.

Firstly, let me say "thank you" to everyone who picked up the launch issue and to those who gave us such lovely feedback. It has been so nice to walk through the canteen, or by the Oak Road seating area, and see people with a copy in hand enjoying our stories.

I started at The Christie in the chief nurse role in May last year. I am delighted to be part of such a special place and it’s easy to see why so many patients and their families hold it dear to their hearts. As I approach my first-year anniversary, I continue to be amazed by the progress, dedication, and innovation on show. The past 12 months have been filled with many achievements, including some which we showcase here, and I’m excited to see what the future holds. We look forward to celebrating these successes with you and sharing more inspiring stories in the issues to come. If you have any suggestions, please get in touch.

This second edition is equally packed with happenings from around the Trust. These include news on pioneering research, a look at some of our staff’s talents away from work, and a feature on our cover star and adorable new colleague – Lilo the therapy dog.

Thank you for reading.

Vicky Sharples Chief Nurse and Executive Director of Quality

Contents

2 3

12 13

Introduction News in brief Feature story

You Made A Difference Awards

Around the Trust

4-5

14-16

Patient stories Puzzle section Charity corner

17

Close up - Spiritual care at The Christie: here to support you

6-7 8-9

18-19

The Christie’s got talent

10-11

Staff stories

We’d love to hear your thoughts about this new magazine. Please send any feedback or ideas to the-christie.internalcomms@nhs.net You can also get in touch by post at: WATC Editor, The Christie, 2-4 Candleford Road, Withington, Manchester, M20 3JH 2