The Skeletal Cancer Trust
Based at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, Stanmore, the main goals of the charity are to improve the lives and increase survival of children and young adults who are afflicted with bone cancer by both initiating and funding scientific research, education and individual patient support.
Primary skeletal cancer also known as bone cancer or sarcoma is extremely rare and is treated essentially by a combination of chemotherapy and surgery. Radiotherapy may also occasionally be utilised. The treatment protocols are extremely aggressive and arduous but sadly at present only around 70% of patients survive. Most will undergo major reconstructive surgery so called “limb salvage” usually involving large and often “growing” prostheses but sadly some will also face amputation in order to rid them of the disease.
““Primary bone cancer affects teenagers and young adults in the prime of their lives. I am a surgeon in one of the UK’s five dedicated bone cancer units and I see these patients and their families every week. Primary bone cancer is treatable but the cure rate is currently only 60% and we need to do better!””
Since its inception in the early 1990’s, the charity has grown exponentially. It started out providing contemporary wigs for youngsters with complete hair loss due to the chemotherapy. Today, SCT plays a leading role in enabling an ever-greater understanding of the skeletal cancer and its treatments, and provides wellbeing support to patients affected by the disease and their families.
Where the money goes →
All of the money raised has been committed to SCT’s many projects and spent wisely in helping bone cancer patients, both now and in the future.
Get involved →
The SCT team are always running, cycling or singing to fundraise for valuable causes. Find out what’s coming up or look back at past events here.
How we can help →
SCT has raised £2.5m over the last 10 years, thanks to our many donors, supporters and fundraisers. To apply for a support grant, please contact us.