Our History
The Unit, based in Newcastle-upon-Tyne General Hospital, was established in 1987 to treat babies and children born with defective immune systems, by bone marrow transplantation. Since 1994 and 2000 respectively, the Unit has also begun to treat children suffering from leukaemia, and severe forms of arthritis.
It is a tribute to the whole Team that survival has risen from 50% to 80%.
Apart from the growing expertise of all staff, these great results are also attributable to the wide-ranging research activities, which have been focused upon improving the bone marrow transplant process and finding better ways of looking after patients post transplant, so fewer die of complications. This has been achieved despite lack of formal research laboratory facilities and will benefit in the future from the recently established Stem Cell Laboratory.
Historically, fundraising started in 1992 by altruistic ward staff, and parents organising events to raise money, specifically for infusion pumps. The decision to formalise activity into a registered charity, ‘The Bubble Appeal’ (renamed BUBBLE FOUNDATION UK), coincided with the build of a new unit and the need for a range of state-of-the-art medical equipment. Evolving imperatives include research, parent support and accommodation, staff training, and toys and educational equipment.
The funds raised by the Charity have facilitated the purchase of a long list of items and activities, which have contributed to a range of improvements in terms of research, medical care, and social and development needs of patients and families.
Importantly, funds raised have helped save the lives of our babies and children.
Over the last 15 years, the partnership between the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit and the BUBBLE FOUNDATION UK has raised over £2 million, which has contributed to the Unit’s great achievements.