Patient honours QVH Speech and Language Therapist as his ‘Cancer Star’ on BBC Radio 5 Live

Queen Victoria Hospital’s Clinical Lead for Speech and Language Therapy, Sam Briggs, has been recognised on BBC Radio 5 Live after being nominated as a ‘Cancer Star’ by patient Brian, who underwent treatment for cancer that resulted in him having a laryngectomy (the surgical removal of the voice box). Brian now communicates using an electrolarynx, and his appearance on national radio marked a remarkable milestone in his rehabilitation.

Brian nominated Sam as his “Cancer Star” for the unwavering support she provided throughout his cancer journey up to now. He praised her compassion, clinical expertise and steady presence during every stage of his treatment. Sam and her team also introduced Brian to the electrolarynx which has given him his voice back.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 presenter Tony Livesey, Brian said:
“Sam’s been there right from the very start of my journey and she’s still there, and will be going forward. She’s provided fabulous advice and been with me through the ups and downs, always there if I have problems, and she’s been absolutely excellent in helping me with what I’m going through in my life.”

Sam explained the role of speech and language therapy throughout the cancer pathway, highlighting how the team not only guide patients through treatment and help prepare them for the life‑changing impact of surgeries such as a laryngectomy, but support them with their rehabilitation and living beyond cancer.

Sam explained: “At Queen Victoria Hospital we are involved from the very start of the cancer pathway after a cancer diagnosis. I first saw Brian when he presented with some changes to his voice and was involved as we tried to help with his voice quality after he had his radiotherapy.”

“Part of my role within the team is to help people to understand what that surgery entails, what it means for them day‑to‑day moving forwards, the implications that will have on their speech forever and, as Brian mentioned, his swallow, and to see how we can best rehabilitate people after. It involves a lot of speech therapy, a lot of practice by themselves at home, and a lot of patience because some of the decisions we make to help them communicate going forwards take a lot of time whilst we wait for healing and other issues that come from having had cancer surgery.”

Sam also paid tribute to the strength of patients who undergo such transformative procedures:
“I work with people on a daily basis who have been told they have cancer; all of them show amazing strength and bravery.”

Hearing Brian speak on national radio using an electrolarynx was a proud moment for Sam:
“I’m so proud of Brian and him being able to speak on national radio via an electrolarynx, that’s not as easy as he’s making it out to be! It’s really amazing to hear. I’m really touched by the comments that he’s made and it’s really lovely to hear him over the radio.”

This heartfelt recognition on BBC Radio 5 Live shines a national spotlight on the essential role speech and language therapy plays in cancer care.

Queen Victoria Hospital is proud of Sam’s dedication and of Brian’s courage in sharing his story.

You can listen to the interview online until the end of February using this link at 1 hour 18 minutes in approximately.

Pictured Sam Briggs, Brian’s ‘Cancer Star.

For more information please email the QVH Press Office at qvh.communications@nhs.net