Lymm cancer scientist returns to hospital wards treating patients

Victoria Foy – a PhD student at Cancer Research UK’s Manchester Institute at the University of Manchester – normally works on ground-breaking lung cancer research at the Institute’s current base at Alderley Park.

The 33-year-old was exploring how circulating tumour DNA – a substance released from cancer cells into the bloodstream – can help develop better treatments for patients with the disease.

But with her academic work currently paused due to the pandemic, Victoria – who has a degree in medicine from the University of Liverpool – has returned to the NHS as a frontline doctor.

Victoria

She is now working full time at The Christie NHS Foundation Trust in Manchester, where her work includes treating hospital patients with a diagnosis of both cancer and Covid-19.

Although The Christie does not have an emergency department, the specialist cancer centre is providing care for a small number of cancer patients whose illness and treatment is complicated by an episode of the Covid-19 infection.

The mum-of-two said: “With the research lab shut down for the time being, I had a feeling that I should be doing something to support the national effort on the NHS frontline. I am registered to practise as a medical doctor, so I felt determined to play my part in supporting vulnerable patients.

“In my first week, I was asked to work on a ward with Covid-19 cancer patients at The Christie.

Victoria in her PPE

"It was a bit daunting at first as I was given full protective equipment to wear, including a mask, face visor, apron and gloves.

"But the ward feels very calm and under control – and I feel like I’m able to contribute and make a real difference.

“It’s tough enough for patients to deal with treatment for cancer and all that entails, but to add an additional diagnosis of Covid-19 is particularly challenging.

"It’s a really difficult time for patients as visiting is significantly reduced at the hospital and family contact isn’t so readily available.

"But the teams at The Christie are doing a great job.”

As well as her work with Covid-19 cancer patients, Victoria is also caring for patients who are having routine cancer treatment at The Christie for bone and tissue sarcoma – a rare form of cancer that normally affects younger people.

She said: “I’m very proud to be part of the team providing direct patient care and making sure that cancer patients continue to get the treatment they need. Many of these patients have young families of their own, and it’s really important to offer support and care for them at what can feel like a very daunting and isolating time.”

Victoria is due to continue working at the hospital for several months, with plans to resume her PhD studies once the Covid-19 pandemic has eased.

She said: “We must not forget that researching cancer is such a critical part of improving long term outcomes for patients. The sooner we can get back to the labs, the sooner we can start beating cancer again and saving even more lives.”

Anna Taylor, north west spokesperson for Cancer Research UK, said: “Cancer doesn’t go away during or after Covid-19, but we’re incredibly proud of our community of scientists who have been very quick to respond to the crisis, using their kit, skills and talent to support the NHS.

“Victoria is a shining example of the heroic efforts our scientists are making to support the global effort of tackling Covid-19, and helping us get back to beating cancer as soon as possible.”