It is with great sadness that we share the news of Terry’s passing, a deeply valued member of our Patient and Public Involvement Group.
We first met Terry, and her husband Bob, at a workshop to develop a patient app to improve CAR‑T therapy. From that moment on, she became a committed member of our team, working closely with researchers across the BTRU to ensure their work remained centred on patient needs and experiences. Terry had a remarkable gift for offering clear, thoughtful guidance - always delivered with humility, warmth, and a kindness that left researchers feeling encouraged and appreciated.
It meant a great deal to know that Terry also valued her relationship with the BTRU. As her daughter Louisa shared, on behalf of her father and brother Ed:
“Mum talked passionately about her involvement in the Patient and Public Research Group. There was never any doubt in mum's mind that being actively involved in the patient pathway, seeking to work with medical practitioners and researchers and having a voice was the right thing to do. Mum was never shy in letting her thoughts be known - such a vibrant contributor, I am sure - but never opinionated.”
Terry’s contribution was incredibly important to the research. However, it was the person she was that made her unforgettable. She embraced life with passion and joy. During the “getting to know you” moments in our meetings, she spoke with such enthusiasm about her family, gardening and her favourite places, music, and books - including The English Patient – her favourite film. Her presence always brought energy, positivity, and often a welcome touch of humour.
As we continue our work to improve cancer treatments, we will carry Terry’s memory with us. Her ideas, optimism, and generous spirit made every meeting better, and we feel fortunate to have benefited from her wisdom and company.
Her family captured this beautifully: “Terry had a calling to speak up for those who weren’t able to speak up for themselves. She spent much of her working and private life improving young people’s life chances as a teacher of special educational needs. She championed inclusion and opportunities for all, singing out that we have far more in common than that which divides us, changing people’s way of thinking.”
Terry was clearly an extraordinary person - someone who made a meaningful difference to us, her community, and everyone privileged to know her.
She will be deeply missed, and remembered with great fondness.
“I know that Terry was a much valued and important member of our PPIE group. Her enthusiastic and thoughtful contribution to the BTRU will leave a lasting legacy that will benefit future patients” Professor Ronjon Chakraverty, Director