We are The Christie magazine July 2025 Staff edition

All our staff go to tremendous lengths to help each and every one of our patients and, together:

Ivan Cobham Ivan Cobham is The Christie’s first dedicated activity coordinator. He offers personalised support to adult oncology patients during inpatient stays. While the focus is on those with cognitive impairment or delirium, Ivan supports any patient who may benefit from stimulation, companionship or emotional support.

Ivan has worked with inpatients at The Christie for over three years, stepping into this new role in September 2024. With over two decades of experience in care, he is actively developing the post with a strong focus on person-centred care. “I provide an added blanket of support, helping to reduce anxiety and promote cognitive function.”

Chioma Okoene Chioma Okoene is a nurse in our research team. She works on our clinical trials unit, looking after people with all different types of cancer who are taking part in research. “My mum was called Christie, and she had cancer. Working here, in the team that’s helping to find new treatments, is my tribute to her.”

He works mainly on wards 11 and 12 but takes referrals from across the Trust, often supporting milestone moments like birthdays or weddings. “Sometimes that’s all someone needs – a golden moment to navigate the challenging times.”

“I provide purposeful engagement – from arts and crafts to relaxation exercises or just sitting and talking,” he says. “Whatever is meaningful for

Chioma is originally from Enugu in eastern Nigeria. She has been working at The Christie since January but has always wanted to be a nurse. “I love helping people and making a difference to their lives. Someone recently told me that drugs she’s been having as part of a trial have been keeping her alive for years. Hearing things like that is why I do what I do,” she says.

“I really like what I do and the people I work with.” she says. “I’m enjoying learning about all the trials, and I want to stay to see what the results are. It’s a very exciting and gratifying area to work in. I feel like I’m doing my bit to make life better for more people like Mum," Chioma Okoene

the patient in that moment.” Ivan Cobham

In May, Ivan received a You Made a Difference Award for the impact he’s already made. “I’m still a healthcare assistant at heart,” he adds. “If a patient needs me, I’ll be there.”

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