About Robert Foot and RFLF

Robert was working as a political adviser for the Ministry of Defence in war-torn Sierra Leone when he first became ill. He was diagnosed with a form of leukaemia which is rarely found in adults and in whom it is difficult to treat successfully. He lived with the illness for over 2 years in the manner in which he had lived his life up to that point - with determination, spirit, and courage.

He had previously worked in Bosnia, had travelled widely, played and watched sport with enthusiasm and expertise, and had a love of music and literature.

When given his terminal diagnosis Robert, married Kath, played cricket, and with the support of his wife, family and friends, embarked upon further treatment in an attempt to survive his leukaemia.

Robert died on the 5th November 2002, with the skies outside his room filled with fireworks.

The Robert Foot Leukaemia Fund, which has been registered with the Charity Commission, has been established in Robert's memory to:

• Fund or assist funding of schemes that provide treatment and care to adult leukaemia patients, particularly those suffering from Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL)

• Fund or assist funding of research projects associated with adult ALL

• Fund or assist funding of projects dedicated to improving the quality of life for adult leukaemic patients, particularly patients with ALL

In seeking to meet these objectives, particular regard is paid to the needs of patients in Samaritan (ex-Stanley) Ward at Guys Hospital, London; Shouldham Ward, Cancer Wellbeing and Support Centre and Macmillan Care and Treatment Centre at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, King's Lynn; and the Teenage Cancer Trust Unit at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge. It was in these places that Robert received most of his treatment. Wider support is also intended for patient comforts in other Teenage and Young Adult cancer facilities.

The Trustees of RFLF are :

• Wendy Foot

• Janet Blundell

• Alison Croose

• Paul Berry

• Michael Anstey