The Get A-Head appeal was launched in 1994 to support people in the West Midlands living with head and neck injuries and diseases, especially cancer. The trust was registered as a charity in 2007, and has funded research, equipment, patient support and complementary therapies, and education. To date, the charity has raised more than £10,000,000.
The appeal was started by John Watkinson and Adrian Drake-Lee, two of the UK’s leading ear, nose and throat surgeons with publicity support from the late Roy Castle, television doctor Hilary Jones and the players of Warwickshire Cricket Club.
Chair, Tom Bromwich, has also had a long association with the charity, after his twin brother was treated for thyroid cancer by John Watkinson. Tom and his three children have all since had their thyroid removed to reduce their risk of the disease after they were found to have a genetic risk factor.
Get A-Head funds vital research into the causes and treatments of head and neck conditions as well as paying for pioneering surgical equipment, education for healthcare professionals, life-changing equipment for patients that isn’t available through the NHS, and direct patient support, from support groups to cost of living grants.
