A world-renowned blood cancers expert has been given a prestigious award in recognition of his outstanding contribution in helping patients with the life-threatening conditions.

Professor Graham Jackson, honorary clinical professor of clinical haematology at the Northern Institute of Cancer Research, Newcastle University, has been given a Gold Medal from the British Society of Haematology.

The accolade acknowledges his internationally acclaimed clinical expertise and research which has had significant impact on progressing treatment options for blood cancers.

Professor Jackson is a consultant haematologist at Newcastle’s Freeman Hospital – where he has worked for more than 25 years – and specialises in the care and treatment of patients with myeloma, a blood cancer affecting the plasma cells.

He said: “I am delighted to have received this wonderful accolade from the British Society of Haematology, of which I have been a member since 1996. Whilst I realise the medal has been awarded to myself, I really believe I wouldn’t have achieved this without the superb team and facilities around me.

“I am a part of an exceptionally talented team, who are driven by that ‘can do’ attitude the North East is well known for. Our work is supported by the amazing generosity of the local people who donate all that they can, so that we can carry out the world-leading research Newcastle is renowned for, at the Sir Bobby Robson Clinical Trial Unit in the Northern Centre for Cancer Care.”

A past president of the British Society of Haematology, Professor Jackson has led on a number of major national clinical trials across his career as Chief Investigator, and says that the close links between Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust makes the North East a great place to do research.

He added: “I worked in other centres across the country before returning to my roots in the North East, and I can truly say that the cancer care we offer here in Newcastle is as good as anywhere else in the world.”

Research into blood cancers is crucial so that developments can be made in treating patients. Around 30,000 people are diagnosed with a blood cancer in the UK each year, including leukaemia and lymphoma.

Sir Leonard Fenwick, Chief Executive for Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “This prestigious accolade is yet another clear demonstration of the high calibre of clinicians we have working here in Newcastle.

“We are extremely proud of Professor Jackson. He has worked with the Trust for many years and embodies all that we endeavour to achieve – putting the patients at the heart of everything we do. This award is very much deserved.”

Pamela Page, 69, has been a patient under the care of Professor Jackson after she was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in early 2011.

The retired professional ballet dancer said: “I was thrilled and delighted to hear the news. I can’t think of anyone more deserving for this award than Professor Jackson.

“When a secretary told me who I would be cared for by she said ‘he’s not just one of the country’s leading specialists for myeloma, he’s genuinely one of the nicest men you will ever meet’, and she was right. He is a gentleman, honest on every level and hugely supportive.

“When I first met Professor Jackson he actually said ‘you are in our hands now’ and I immediately felt an overwhelming feeling of trust and confidence in him which is so important when you’ve had a diagnosis like this. I honestly don’t think I could have made it without the care and attention I’ve received from Professor Jackson and the rest of the team.”

Photo caption: Professor Graham Jackson

published on: 8 June 2015