On 14 November, Birmingham hosted the Midlands CAR-T Event, bringing together clinicians, researchers, industry partners, and patient groups to explore the future of CAR-T therapies.
It was attended by Dr Sarah Hughes, leading the PRO-CAR-T study, and Dr Karen Shaw (PPIE Manager) - who were there to learn and share BTRU research.
At their event stand, they highlighted our research to develop a patient app for those undergoing CAR-T therapy. Attendees were invited to explore the digital system and join a stakeholder group - working alongside patients and the public - to help shape its future use.
What is CAR-T Therapy?
CAR-T (Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell) therapy reprogrammes a patient’s immune cells to target and destroy cancer. It’s already helping people with some blood cancers, and scientists are now testing it for solid tumours and autoimmune diseases.
Event Highlights
- Expert Panels: Specialists shared updates on new trials, therapy approvals, and what advances mean for patients.
- Patient Voices: Charities ensured patients and families remained central to the conversation.
- Innovation: Biotech firms discussed smarter CAR‑T designs and better manufacturing to expand access at lower cost.
- Policy: NHS leaders debated how CAR‑T could enter routine care, addressing affordability, readiness, and fair access.
A Powerful Moment
A standout moment was Sophie Wheldon’s moving, and warmly humorous, account of her blood cancer journey and the life‑changing impact of CAR-T. As the Patient Support Manager at Leukaemia Care (www.leukaemiacare.org.uk), and a valued BTRU Patient Partner, Sophie brought to life the human stories that sit behind the science and research.
Key Takeaways
The Midlands CAR-T Event was not just a showcase of current achievements but a call to action. Sarah and Karen were left with several take-away messages
- Collaboration across hospitals, universities, biotech, and the NHS is essential.
- Manufacturing capacity needs to expand to meet patient demand.
- Patient‑centred care remains the priority – reinforcing the importance of patient reported outcomes and the PRO-CAR-T study.
“What stood out most for me was the strong clinical focus of the day, and the way PROs served as vital touchpoints for patients throughout the care pathway—from rehabilitation to long-term follow-up. It really highlighted the critical role and growing importance of PROs in CAR-T clinical care.” - Dr Sarah Hughes, Research Fellow.