Young oncology patients become biomedical scientists for the day at Royal Stoke
A group of oncology patients from University Hospitals of North Midlands NHS Trust recently became biomedical scientists for the day to help them better understand what happens to their blood samples during treatment.
Four patients from Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke were given a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Royal Stoke University Hospital’s pathology department.
During the visit, Harper Lythgoe (10), Lola Mansfield (10), Jamie Davies (12), and Harrison Gratton (9) watched their blood samples being processed, assessed blood cells under the microscope, and were shown the analysers and robotic machines used in diagnosis.
Claire Butler, oncology specialist nurse at Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke, said:
“Our department treats up to 50 children at a time for conditions like leukaemia and solid tumours. These young patients undergo frequent blood tests, which can be daunting. Whilst we provide education and reassurance, seeing the process up close can make a big difference, helping to reduce fear, build understanding, and empower both children and their families.”
The visit was organised through Harvey’s Lab Tours to help the young patients better understand their healthcare journey.
Harper Lythgoe, from Blythe Bridge, was diagnosed with a low-grade brain tumour at six years old. Her mum, Alex Johnson, said:
“Harper started her chemotherapy in 2021 and has just finished her third protocol. The care at Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke has been amazing – there’s nowhere like this place, the nurses and doctors are like family.”
“The tour was an eye-opener for Harper to see why we have all these tests done and what happens with her bloods after they are taken. I found it interesting as a parent, and it’s good that the hospital is doing something special for the patients and their families to help them process what’s going on.”
Harper added:
“I liked having a look inside the machines, which were really interesting. I also liked being able to wear the special lab coat and the games we played after the tour.”
Lola Mansfield was diagnosed with a tumour on her skull in August 2024. Her mum, Jasmine, said:
“Lola finished six months of chemotherapy earlier this month and has been really well looked after. I could tell she was really enjoying herself during the tour – being able to see things behind the scenes that you didn’t know were happening in a different part of the hospital.”
Katie Berger, UHNM Chief Healthcare Scientist, said:
“It was a joy to host such inspiring young visitors. These tours help children feel more at ease in a hospital setting and give them a sense of what happens to their samples and why. The work of the North Midlands and Cheshire Pathology Service (NMCPS) plays a vital role in patient care across the region, and it’s rewarding to be able to share that with the patients we serve.”
Congratulations to everyone at UHNM and Staffordshire Children’s Hospital for making this tour possible – and to Harper, Lola, Jamie and Harrison for being brilliant little scientists. We love seeing young patients explore the lab and meet the amazing team who support their care every day!