THE mother of a young cancer patient who died two years ago has donated funds to make an oncology support room more “teenage friendly” in her son’s memory.
Callum McNulty, a student at Hautlieu School, died in July 2022, following a battle with Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare bone cancer.
After his death, an auction and football match – Callum’s Cup – was held at Springfield Stadium in his memory, with the events raising funds for the Ewing’s Sarcoma Research Trust.
However, the UK-based charity ceased operations due to limited resources, with outstanding funds sent to other bone cancer research charities.
Callum’s mother, Jo McNulty, told the JEP that following the news of the charity’s closure she decided to use any remaining money raised from Callum’s Cup to improve a support room in Jersey’s oncology department, where her son was treated.
The teenage and young adult room, which is used by Islanders aged 17 to 25 who are battling cancer, has now been made more “teenage friendly”, which Callum would be pleased with, Ms McNulty said.
“I know Callum would be chuffed to see the changes made to this room. He was passionate about doing something for teenagers who found themselves in the same situation as him, and he struggled with the transition from paediatric to adult oncology.”
The support room now has a PlayStation 5 and games, as well as a new comfortable visitor’s chair.
Money has also been used to purchase “grab packs” for patients upon diagnosis, consisting of a hoodie, water bottle and a bag with Callum’s initials, CM, printed on the back.
“Callum wanted to do a lot more but as we know he did not get the chance,” Ms McNulty added.
“I hope this is the first of many projects which make a difference in his name.”
Three Year 13 students from Hautlieu, Liv Swain, Anya Blair and Saskia Baker, also contributed to the project, painting new artwork for the previously bare walls of the room.
Louise Kedge, student support lead and positive mental-health-and-wellbeing manager from Hautlieu, worked together with Ms McNulty and the students on the project.
Skye Newton, a clinical liaison nurse for teenagers and young adults with cancer, highlighted the impact the room would have on patients.
She said: “We are absolutely delighted to have received support from the students of Hautlieu School, who presented our department with three stunning paintings to adorn our newly refurbished teenage and young adult room which was made possible through the incredible efforts and ideas championed by the parents of former TYA patient Callum McNulty.
“Since its opening, the room has become a cherished space for our current TYA patients, who have enjoyed playing on the PlayStation 5 and spending time in a more welcoming, less clinical environment.
“Our TYA patients have also been thrilled with the new patient packs provided at diagnosis, and accompanying family members and friends have benefited from a more comfortable experience, thanks to the thoughtful donation of a new armchair.”
