Swimmer Archie Goodburn thanks prime minister as brain cancer review announced
Swimmer Archie Goodburn has successfully lobbied the UK government for improved brain cancer research and care. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has committed to a national review and the appointment of a clinical lead to address the disease.
Why it matters
This highlights the impact of individual advocacy on national health policy and the urgency of addressing rare, inoperable cancer treatments.
Figure caption, Archie Goodburn said he 'couldn't ask for much more' at this stage of his cancer research plea
Swimmer Archie Goodburn has been successful in his efforts to improve brain cancer care for patients as the UK government announce new measures.
The Scottish athlete, who was diagnosed with three inoperable brain tumours two years ago, met Prime Minister Andy Burnham after making a tearful TV appeal for more investment to be put into brain cancer research.
After the meeting, Burnham announced a new national brain cancer clinical lead and promised a review of brain cancer progress and action to get patients treatment sooner.
Goodburn, 25, thanked the prime minister and said all three of his requests have been "promised to some extent" but "fleshing out" needs to be done on the details.
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