Home News Speakers Childhood Eye Cancer Trust at Rotary Club of Westminster East
PDF Print E-mail
Charities
Westminster East Rotary Club and Childhood Eye Cancer TrustChildren under the age of five can develop cancer in their eyes.  Sadly, few people are aware of this fact but on average one family a week will learn that their child has this devastating condition. 

We are a small but national charity (reg no. 327493) that supports individuals and families affected by retinoblastoma (childhood eye cancer).   Our charity is the only organisation in the UK which provides support to families affected by this condition.  The charity (formerly known as the Retinoblastoma Society) was registered in 1987. 

Retinoblastoma or Rb is a rare cancer which forms in the developing cells of the retina.  Children from 0 to 5 years can be diagnosed with this condition and many will require painful treatment regimes to preserve their sight.  All too often however, due to late diagnosis the only treatment option possible is the removal of the eye and in some cases both eyes (approximately 45% of cases are inherited and this genetic form largely affects children in both eyes).  Children with the inherited form of the condition are at a higher risk of developing second primary cancers later in life. 

Our organisation is funded entirely by charitable giving and through the excellent work of our members. 

Our aims are:
  • To provide information and support to individuals and families affected by Retinoblastoma
  • To raise awareness of Retinoblastoma to promote early diagnosis and prevent further sight loss
  • To raise funds for research to improve treatment options for children


By raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of Rb such as; a white reflection in the eyes of a child in a photograph, the absence of red eye in a photograph or even a squint, the charity advises parents who notice these signs to get their child checked by a GP or optician and recommend an examination using an ophthlamoscope. 

The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust is proud of its achievements in all of these key areas and has developed a five year plan to build on its success.  We currently employ 3.5 staff to carry out these duties and rely on the help from over 30 volunteers to provide a high quality service and standard of care to members and families affected by Rb.

Contact:

Linden Smith

Fundraising and Operations Manager

Childhood Eye Cancer Trust

This e-mail address is being protected from spambots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

www.chect.org.uk