Share this page on these sites
Behind the scenes at the Oxford Cancer Centre
21 November 2009
In November 2009 the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals and University of Oxford invited the public in for a unique, behind the scenes look at cancer care and research.
The open day was a huge success with hundreds of people visiting the Cancer Centre at the Churchill Hospital and the University 'green' building for an interactive, educational and fun event. The aim of the day was to demystify cancer, and to show how research carried out in the laboratory 'translates', or turns into, the care received at the bedside.
Specialist talks were held throughout the day and doctors, nurses and researchers were on hand to answer questions. In addition, there were many interactive stalls and exhibitions suitable for all ages to get involved in – from making model clay cancer cells to taking on scientists in the pipette challenge.
The Cancer Centre also opened its doors to areas normally off-limits to the public. This included the radiotherapy bunkers where the cancer-zapping linear accelerators are held, and the operating theatres with da Vinci, the new surgical robot.
Members of the public were invited to peel a grape using the robot's surgical arms (rather than practising on a real patient...).