Ovarian Cancer Action Research Unit officially opens
In April supporters including actor Nigel Havers, Mike Barry, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility at M&S, other funders, scientists and survivors of ovarian cancer, gathered together to celebrate the official opening of the research unit at Hammersmith Hospital, and to acknowledge the significant contributions made by a number of key individuals by the unveiling of a founders' plaque.
Over coffee and croissants guests were warmly welcomed by Chief Executive Annwen Jones, and Head of the Board of Trustees Allyson Kaye spoke about how her vision of a world class ovarian cancer research unit had now become a reality.
Nigel Havers, who had flown in that morning from the US, spoke about his personal heartbreak at having lost his wife Polly to ovarian cancer, and how proud he was to be associated with Ovarian Cancer Action. Nigel joined Mike Barry in cutting the ribbon at the unveiling of the founders' plaque, which now has pride of place in the research lab. M&S customers contributed £500,000 to the unit through the sale of pin badges in the stores.
In addition to M&S, the founders' plaque also acknowledges the family of Helene Harris, who founded the charity we now know as Ovarian Cancer Action, and the late Don Drewett who left a significant legacy in memory of his wife Betty, who died from the disease. Jane Fisk and Nick Redman had chosen Ovarian Cancer Action to benefit from the Drewett legacy after hearing Nigel's Radio 4 Appeal last year, and Nigel was delighted to be able to thank them in person. Work began at the unit last summer. More about Ovarian Cancer Action research unit.