Ed Vanson and Guy Randall strike a chord for good with #Tedstock
In the heart of our community, there are individuals whose passion and dedication shine like a beacon, illuminating the way for positive change. Ed Vanson, a local radio DJ, and his technical support Guy Randall are just that. Known for his charismatic on-air presence and deep love for music, they orchestrated a remarkable virtual music festival in 2023 that not only entertained but also aimed to make a significant impact for the Head and Neck cancer community.
Ed Vanson: The Man Behind the Mic
Ed Vanson is a familiar voice on Surrey Hills Community radio waves (www.surreyhillsradio.co.uk). His passion for music knows no bounds, and he has a knack for connecting with listeners through his thoughtful commentary, guests and eclectic playlists.
However, Ed’s commitment to the community extends far beyond the radio studio. Inspired by his friend Bob Howes, his mother’s experience with cancer and a desire to give back, he decided to channel his energy into raising funds for Oracle Cancer Trust.
#Tedstock: A Festival with Heart
Ed’s vision for #Tedstock was simple yet powerful: to unite the community through music while raising funds and awareness for Head and Neck cancer. What started as a small idea soon grew into a grand celebration of music, solidarity, and hope.
The festival featured a diverse lineup of local and regional artists, showcasing various music genres to appeal to a wide audience. Featuring many different artists #Tedstock had something for everyone.
Making a Difference
The ultimate goal of #Tedstock was to make a tangible difference in the Head and Neck cancer community. Thanks to the generosity of virtual festivalgoers, the event raised just over £1000. Beyond the monetary contribution, #Tedstock succeeded in raising awareness about the disease, encouraging early detection, and emphasising the importance of a strong support system.
The edventure show was proud to support the Oracle Cancer Trust.

2 Minutes to Save Your Life: Oracle Launches HeadNeckCheck Campaign for Make Sense Week
This Make Sense Week (15-20 September), the European-wide head and neck cancer awareness initiative, Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK, is championing both prevention and early detection – recognising that stopping cancer before it starts is just as vital as catching it early. Two Ways to Fight Cancer This Week Prevention Today: Head and neck…

Leadership update
After four successful years as CEO, Tamara Kahn has transformed Oracle into a respected national voice for head and neck cancer patients. She established a national presence, created a four-pillar RACE strategy (Research, Awareness, Collaboration and Patient/Community Engagement) and built strong policy influence. With these foundations now firmly in place, Tamara will transition from her…

Finding Light in Adversity: Seven inspiring stories through head and neck cancer
A new collection of patient stories from Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK reveals how individuals facing head and neck cancer have discovered unexpected sources of strength, purpose and even joy during their treatment and recovery. The seven contributors share remarkably similar themes despite their unique journeys. Almost all emphasise the power of maintaining a…

NHS to fast-track patients with head and neck cancer into cancer vaccine trial
Patients with advanced head and neck cancers in England will be fast-tracked into a trial of a new cancer vaccine, as the NHS expands its world-leading trial ‘match-making’ service. The investigational cancer vaccine uses mRNA technology to help the immune system recognise and kill cancer cells containing human papillomavirus proteins. More than 100 patients with advanced head…

World Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Day 2025: The HPV Vaccine Could Save Your Life
27th July 2025 This World Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Day, Oracle Head and Neck Cancer UK has a simple but urgent message: HPV vaccination saves lives. With HPV-related head and neck cancers having doubled in the past 20 years, the charity is using today to remind the public that these devastating cancers are preventable…

Data from the National Disease Registration Service on HPV associated and HPV independent oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
The Get Data Out Programme from the National Disease Registration Service (NDRS), part of NHS England, has published statistics on incidence, routes to diagnosis and treatment for patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal cancer in England by human papillomavirus (HPV) status. To our knowledge this is the first time data on oropharyngeal cancer by HPV status has…

Join Us for an Evening of Research, Impact, and Conversation
Research & Impact EveningDate: Monday 28th April 2025Time: 6:00 PM – 8:30 PMVenue: Skyline, Tower Suites, 100 Minories, London EC3N 1JY A Celebration of Research Join us for a meaningful and action-focused evening where we’ll be diving into some of the big conversations around head and neck cancer – especially those linked to HPV (human…

What the Rare Cancers Bill Means for Head & Neck Cancer
14 March marked a crucial moment for research into rare cancers, as the Rare Cancers Bill took another significant step toward becoming law! Dr. Scott Arthur, a Labour MP, introduced this legislation in Parliament to drive much-needed research into cancers affecting fewer than 1 in 2000 people in the UK – including many types of…

Theatre Meets Healthcare: Breaking Barriers in Cancer Conversations
In Leicester, theatre is transforming how Black communities talk about cancer. Oracle Head & Neck Cancer UK, alongside Theatre Sans Frontières, is using interactive Forum Theatre to tackle stigma, improve healthcare conversations, and break down cultural barriers. Actors bring real-life cancer diagnosis experiences to the stage – but the audience isn’t just watching. They step in, suggest changes, and…

Jamie Theakston Announces He is Cancer-Free After Laryngeal Cancer Treatment
Heart Breakfast’s much-loved presenter, Jamie Theakston, has shared the incredible news that he is now cancer free! After completing treatment for stage one laryngeal cancer – cancer of the voice box (larynx), Jamie made his highly anticipated return to the airwaves today, reuniting with listeners and co-hosts alike. Diagnosed in September 2024, Jamie initially thought…