Posted: January 7 2025
Prostate Cancer Research Parliamentary Event
In November 2024, representatives from the Bob Willis Fund, including Lauren Clark (Bob’s wife), Katie Willis (Bob’s daughter), and Co-Founder Adam Askew, attended the launch of Prostate Cancer Research’s landmark report on screening at a cross-party event held at the House of Commons. It was an exceptional event, bringing together an impressive list of MPs, celebrities, and individuals personally affected by prostate cancer, all advocating for the urgent implementation of widespread screening and early detection strategies.
A highlight of the event was a poignant testimonial from Oscar-winning director Sir Steve McQueen, who shared his personal experience with prostate cancer. McQueen revealed that he was diagnosed with the disease just before commencing the production of his film “Blitz” in 2022. He underwent surgery to remove the tumor, delaying filming by two weeks, and has since fully recovered. McQueen emphasized the importance of early detection, especially among Black men who are at higher risk, stating, “As a Black man, I knew that risk was even higher. For a number of years I had been proactive in getting tested. Thankfully, my cancer was detected very early.”
The event also featured a courageous speech from Aidan, a prostate cancer patient, who spoke bravely and openly about his condition, further emphasising the critical need for early detection and screening.
PCR’s report highlighted the socio-economic benefits of prostate cancer screening and advocating for immediate screening of high-risk groups. Click HERE for further information.
During the parliamentary gathering, Lauren had the opportunity to meet her Desert Island Discs hero, Kirsty Young. Subsequently, Lauren was honoured to participate in a Q&A session at an awareness event hosted by Soho House Founder and prostate cancer survivor and campaigner Nick Jones, in collaboration with Prostate Cancer Research.
The Bob Willis Fund is committed to collaborating with Prostate Cancer Research to advance early detection and screening initiatives. The recent events have reinforced the importance of these efforts, and the Fund looks forward to building a successful partnership to combat this cruel disease.
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