We are very sad to share the news with you that Tom Simpson, a valued member of our lung cancer patient advisory group, died recently. The ELF team and members of our lung cancer patient advisory group offer our condolences to his family and share below our appreciation for the contribution Tom made to the lives of people with lung cancer across Europe as an inspirational patient ambassador.
Early in 2015, Tom Simpson responded to our advert asking for individuals with experience of lung cancer, to help us develop our first-ever patient priorities project aiming to raise awareness of what matters most to people affected by people with lung cancer.
Tom was diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer in 2014 and, although newly diagnosed, was keen to put his energy into improving treatment for others as well as spending time with his family and continuing to work. Tom talked about how information needed to be trustworthy, evidence-based and of high-quality from his experience of looking for information on the internet.
Tom joined our patient advisory group and was an active and enthusiastic member, attending all meetings and workshops held in Amsterdam and Brussels. This group was the driving force behind the project as we developed an information website for patients and guidance for healthcare professionals on the top priorities needed to improve treatment, including how to improve communication with patients and carers.
We got to know Tom as the project progressed and especially valued his down-to-earth humour, optimism and the dedication he brought. He was always keen to provide feedback, input ideas and volunteer to help in any way he could. Tom was a passionate advocate for change and had a special skill in getting his message across in a way that made people listen and take notice.
Some of the contributions that Tom made through his work with us include:
Tom also went on to share his experiences at events and in campaigns organised by other organisations such as Lung Cancer Europe (LuCE), the Roy Castle Lung Cancer Foundation and the European Medicines Agency.
We express our gratitude and appreciation for how Tom gave of his time and energy to improve the lives of others, which inspires us to continue to work for this in his memory.
