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received the Volunteer Achievement of the Year award at the National Sarcoma Shining Star Awards last night (5 November). 

Nicola has lived with myxoid liposarcoma for six years, a rare type of cancer accounting for less than 1% of all cancer diagnoses that develops in the body’s connective tissues, such as muscle, fat, bone, or blood vessels. 

She has become a passionate advocate for better diagnosis, treatment, and support for people affected by this rare form of cancer. Her lived experience brings a vital perspective to the national conversation around healthcare inequalities and cancer care reform. 

In June she spoke to MPs in the House of Commons for the launch of the most comprehensive review ever undertaken into sarcoma care in the UK, titled ‘  

She recounted how her diagnosis followed a chance mention of a lump behind her knee during a GP visit for her young son. What followed was a slow and anxious wait, marked by delays in appointments and the financial burden of seeking a private diagnosis to expedite care. 

Eventually diagnosed with a high-grade tumour the size of a mango, she underwent intensive radiotherapy and limb-sparing surgery at The Royal Marsden - a 140-mile round trip from her home. 

Sarcoma UK says the findings of the report highlight how thousands of patients are often misdiagnosed or face months-long delays before receiving appropriate care, with rural and low-income communities facing the greatest barriers. 

Nicola has actively engaged in awareness efforts - taking part in fundraising events such as the London Marathon and Glitter Ball as well as Sarcoma Awareness Month. She said: “Having sarcoma can be really lonely but I found a family in Sarcoma UK, and I want to do things for them.”  

Last year she joined the State of the Nation Advisory Group, working alongside other patients, clinicians, and researchers to shape the findings and recommendations of the new report. 

Nicola added: “I wanted to use the skills I have, and I’m not fazed by talking to audiences. I wanted to do something that has a legacy to it. I’m using my voice and story to help others. 

“As a patient, you often feel at the mercy of systems you can’t influence. Being part of this review gave me the opportunity to change that - to help turn difficult experiences into a catalyst for real, lasting change.” 

Nicola’s voluntary efforts reflect her commitment to public service and her ability to connect academic insight with personal experience. She does so alongside her role as the Associate Head (Students) in the School of Architecture, Art and Design in the University’s Faculty of Creative and Cultural Industries. 

Sam Hackett, Sarcoma UK’s Healthcare Professional Engagement Lead, said: “Nicola is exactly the kind of advocate the sarcoma community needs. She is passionate, articulate, and determined to improve outcomes for others. From running marathons to addressing Parliament, she's shown extraordinary commitment. She has brought not only her personal experience but also her professional skills and determination to lobby for real change in sarcoma care. I am delighted to see her recognised with this well-deserved award."