Two women have shared powerful stories of how the Newcastle Life Sciences Centre changed their lives through groundbreaking medical care and support.
Abby York Discovers High Cancer Risk and Takes Preventive Action
In 2022, Abby York, from Bishop Auckland in County Durham, received life-changing news. She tested positive for a BRCA gene mutation—a genetic alteration that significantly increases the risk of breast and ovarian cancer. The test was carried out by a team at the Newcastle Life Sciences Centre.
“When I found out, I felt like I could almost take action to protect myself and my children,” she said.
In 2024, York made the decision to undergo a preventive double mastectomy. She expressed deep gratitude for the team who helped her through the process, saying she was “very proud” of the science centre.
“They saved lives,” she said.
Celebrating 25 Years of Research and Innovation
The Newcastle Life Sciences Centre recently marked its 25th anniversary. Officially opened by Queen Elizabeth II in May 2000, the centre has become a hub for pioneering research in areas including fertility, cancer, and genetic disorders.
Linda Conlan, chief executive of the Life Foundation, reflected on the centre’s impact. “The past 25 years have seen countless breakthroughs in medical research that have improved the lives of so many people,” she said. “It’s been a rollercoaster ride over the last 25 years.”
Lindsey Power’s Journey to Motherhood Through IVF
Another woman, Lindsey Power from Newcastle, also shared her story of hope made possible by the Life Sciences Centre. Power had long dreamed of having children, and she turned to her local fertility team for support.
“I had always dreamed of having a child, and I knew I had to go through IVF or natural parenting,” she said.
Her dream came true in 2022 when she learned she was expecting triplets.
“I’ll never forget it,” she said. “There were two sacs… and it was confirmed before Christmas—there were triplets.”
Now a mother, Power often points out the science centre to her children when driving through the city.
“The team was amazing from start to finish,” she said.
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