We are pleased to welcome new leadership to our Community Advisory Panel (CAP), with Jodie Collins stepping into the role of Chair and Gemma Farquhar as Deputy Chair. Both bring a deep commitment to ensuring lived experience remains at the heart of our research, alongside a shared passion for improving outcomes for people affected by GI cancer.
The CAP plays a vital role in ensuring that lived experience is embedded across all stages of research, from study design through to delivery. By bringing the perspectives of people with lived experience of GI cancer into the research process, the CAP helps ensure studies are relevant, accessible and focused on what matters most.
Jodie Collins, Chair
Jodie has been a valued member of the CAP for several years, most recently serving as Deputy Chair. Reflecting on her time with the Panel, she describes a strong sense of purpose that has kept her engaged.
“What has kept me involved is seeing the genuine passion of everyone involved in the research, including the dedicated team at GI Cancer Trials, and the value placed on lived experience in shaping patient-centred research,” she says.
“Over time, I’ve seen the CAP evolve from a more consultative role to one that is truly influential.”
Stepping into the Chair role is something Jodie views as both an honour and a responsibility.
“It feels like a huge privilege and a massive responsibility to continue strengthening that voice, to support CAP members, and to ensure our contribution remains meaningful.”
Jodie’s perspective is deeply shaped by her own experience with bowel cancer. While she acknowledges the challenges, she also reflects on how it has influenced her path.
“Cancer was never a choice, but what I’ve chosen to do with that experience has changed the trajectory of my life. It’s given me some of my darkest days, but it has also led me to where I stand today,” she shares.
“Being part of the CAP has given me a sense of being and responsibility to represent those who don’t always have a voice and to help make research more human and accessible.”
When asked about the impact of the CAP, Jodie points to its growing recognition and influence.
“Each and every member has a real impact in shaping research, even if it’s not always immediately visible. What stands out most to me is working alongside such a passionate group of people, all driven to improve the lives of those affected by GI cancer.”
Looking ahead, Jodie is focused on strengthening the role of the CAP in meaningful and sustainable ways.
“My priority is to ensure the CAP is involved early, in ways that are practical and achievable, and to create an environment where everyone feels confident to contribute and truly valued.”
Gemma Farquhar, Deputy Chair
Gemma brings her own lived experience and a strong belief in the power of research to her new role as Deputy Chair.
“My cancer experience showed me just how critical research is. Without it, progress simply doesn’t happen,” she says.
“I want to use my lived experience to help shape that progress and ensure research focuses on what truly matters to patients.”
Since joining the CAP, Gemma has been struck by how meaningfully lived experience is integrated into the research process.
“I’ve been impressed by how much lived experience is valued. It brings a real-world lens that keeps research patient-centred, relevant and impactful,” she explains.
“The CAP creates a genuine bridge between patients and researchers, which is essential for meaningful progress.”
In her new role, Gemma is particularly motivated by the opportunity to strengthen that connection.
“I’m most looking forward to amplifying the patient voice and helping ensure research translates into real outcomes for people,” she says.
“If we can connect lived experience with great science, we can accelerate progress and create better futures for others facing cancer.”
With Jodie and Gemma stepping into their new roles, we look forward to continuing to strengthen the Community Advisory Panel and the important partnership between community and researchers.