Simon Armitage's Poem Celebrates Cancer Research Milestone
Published 27 January 2026
Highlights
- Poet Laureate Simon Armitage wrote "The Campaign" to mark Yorkshire Cancer Research's centenary, inspired by cancer patients' stories.
- The poem likens cancer to a dragon, echoing a historical call to action by Sir Harold Mackintosh, urging people to combat the disease.
- Armitage met with patients and researchers, aiming to capture both the sadness and optimism surrounding cancer experiences.
- Yorkshire Cancer Research, founded in 1925, has grown significantly, now involving 182,000 people in its research and services.
- The poem serves as both a reflection on progress in cancer treatment and a motivational piece for those affected by the disease.
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Rewritten Article
Simon Armitage's Poem Celebrates Cancer Research Milestone
Poet Laureate Simon Armitage has crafted a poignant new poem, "The Campaign," to commemorate the centenary of Yorkshire Cancer Research. Drawing inspiration from the stories of cancer patients and their families, Armitage's work serves as both a reflection on the progress made in cancer treatment and a call to action for continued support.
A Poetic Call to Action
Commissioned by Yorkshire Cancer Research, Armitage's poem uses the metaphor of a dragon to symbolize cancer, a nod to a historic speech by Sir Harold Mackintosh. Mackintosh, the charity's first honorary secretary, famously urged the public to become "the new Saint George" in the fight against cancer. Armitage's poem captures this spirit, blending the harsh realities of the disease with a message of hope and resilience.
Inspiration from Personal Stories
Before penning the poem, Armitage engaged with 17 individuals from across Yorkshire, including patients, researchers, and fundraisers. This experience, he noted, was both moving and inspiring, providing a rich emotional backdrop for his writing. "I wanted to write something rich with all the possibilities that people have now," Armitage explained, emphasizing the balance of sadness and optimism he encountered.
A Century of Progress
Founded in 1925, Yorkshire Cancer Research has evolved from a small laboratory to one of the world's leading cancer research centers. Today, it supports 182,000 participants in its research and services. Dr. Kathryn Scott, the charity's Chief Executive, described Armitage's poem as "hopeful," highlighting the significant advancements in cancer treatment over the past century.
A Message of Hope
The poem has resonated deeply with those involved, including Gary Lovelace, a former headteacher living with stage 4 kidney cancer. Lovelace praised the poem's uplifting conclusion, which encourages perseverance. "We keep on Yorkshiring on," he noted, capturing the indomitable spirit of the region.
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Scenario Analysis
Looking ahead, "The Campaign" could serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and funds for cancer research. By humanizing the experiences of those affected by cancer, the poem may inspire increased public engagement and support for ongoing research efforts. As cancer remains a significant health challenge, the continued collaboration between poets, researchers, and patients could foster innovative approaches to treatment and care. Experts suggest that such creative initiatives can play a crucial role in demystifying cancer and encouraging a more hopeful outlook for those diagnosed with the disease.
Poet Laureate Simon Armitage has crafted a poignant new poem, "The Campaign," to commemorate the centenary of Yorkshire Cancer Research. Drawing inspiration from the stories of cancer patients and their families, Armitage's work serves as both a reflection on the progress made in cancer treatment and a call to action for continued support.
A Poetic Call to Action
Commissioned by Yorkshire Cancer Research, Armitage's poem uses the metaphor of a dragon to symbolize cancer, a nod to a historic speech by Sir Harold Mackintosh. Mackintosh, the charity's first honorary secretary, famously urged the public to become "the new Saint George" in the fight against cancer. Armitage's poem captures this spirit, blending the harsh realities of the disease with a message of hope and resilience.
Inspiration from Personal Stories
Before penning the poem, Armitage engaged with 17 individuals from across Yorkshire, including patients, researchers, and fundraisers. This experience, he noted, was both moving and inspiring, providing a rich emotional backdrop for his writing. "I wanted to write something rich with all the possibilities that people have now," Armitage explained, emphasizing the balance of sadness and optimism he encountered.
A Century of Progress
Founded in 1925, Yorkshire Cancer Research has evolved from a small laboratory to one of the world's leading cancer research centers. Today, it supports 182,000 participants in its research and services. Dr. Kathryn Scott, the charity's Chief Executive, described Armitage's poem as "hopeful," highlighting the significant advancements in cancer treatment over the past century.
A Message of Hope
The poem has resonated deeply with those involved, including Gary Lovelace, a former headteacher living with stage 4 kidney cancer. Lovelace praised the poem's uplifting conclusion, which encourages perseverance. "We keep on Yorkshiring on," he noted, capturing the indomitable spirit of the region.
What this might mean
Looking ahead, "The Campaign" could serve as a powerful tool for raising awareness and funds for cancer research. By humanizing the experiences of those affected by cancer, the poem may inspire increased public engagement and support for ongoing research efforts. As cancer remains a significant health challenge, the continued collaboration between poets, researchers, and patients could foster innovative approaches to treatment and care. Experts suggest that such creative initiatives can play a crucial role in demystifying cancer and encouraging a more hopeful outlook for those diagnosed with the disease.
