Using the power of football to help prevent cancer
This week, Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK has launched an important awareness campaign in partnership with Bromley FC, using the reach of football to shine a light on head and neck cancer prevention and the life-saving importance of the HPV vaccine.
Throughout the week, Bromley FC is sharing trusted health information with its supporters, staff, Academy and Youth teams, all building towards a dedicated Awareness Match at the weekend against Swindon Town where players will wear special Oracle branded kits.
The aim is simple but powerful: to help families and young people understand that there is a vaccine that can help prevent up to six cancers, including some mouth and throat cancers.
Neal’s story: “If sharing my story saves just one life…”
At the heart of this campaign is Neal’s story.
Neal is a Bromley FC supporter who is currently undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer. He has chosen to share his experience in the hope that others might be spared what he and his family are going through.
As Neal explains:
“A quick injection could stop your son, grandson, niece or friend going through what I’m going through. If sharing my story saves just one life, it will all be worth it.”
Before his diagnosis, Neal had never heard of head and neck cancer. He was aware of HPV because his daughter had received the vaccine, but never realised it could be linked to mouth and throat cancers. His experience is a powerful reminder of why prevention matters – and why awareness is so urgently needed.
Why this campaign matters
Head and neck cancer is one of the fastest-rising cancers in the UK. Too many people are diagnosed late, when treatment is more invasive and recovery can mean lifelong changes to eating, speaking and living.
The HPV vaccine offers a unique opportunity to change that future by preventing cancers before they develop.
By working together with Bromley FC, we’re reaching new audiences with clear, trusted information – and encouraging families and young adults to take a simple step that could save lives.
How you can help this week
You can play a vital role in helping this message reach further:
- Like, share or repost campaign content from Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK and Bromley FC on social media
- Talk to friends, family and colleagues about the HPV vaccine – especially parents, carers and young adults
Every share helps this information reach more families. One simple conversation could make a life-saving difference.
Explore the full campaign, Neal’s story and our awareness quiz here: bromleyfc.co.uk/hpv
Thank you, as always, for standing with us and helping ensure that fewer people face head and neck cancer in the future.
Let’s play prevention. Let’s protect the next generation.
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Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1142037), and in Scotland (SC052790).
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