Behind our ‘see it. treat it.’ appeal: Meet Appeal Board member Melinda Schofield

Earlier this year, we launched our most ambitious appeal yet - ‘see it. treat it.’ - calling on the public to help us raise £1.85 million to fund a ground-breaking MRI simulator scanner for Weston Park Cancer Centre. This life-changing piece of technology will transform how cancer is diagnosed and treated for patients across our region.

At the heart of our historic campaign is our incredible Appeal Board, a passionate group of dedicated individuals who are helping us to drive our fundraising goal forward. Their commitment, passion and their wide professional networks are vital to the success of 'see it. treat it.’

To celebrate and spotlight the people powering the appeal, we’re introducing each of our Appeal Board members and sharing what motivates them to be part of the journey to bring this life-changing scanner to our hospital.

We recently caught up with Melinda Schofield, Regional Commercial Director for the North East & Yorkshire at Bauer Media Group, to hear why she chose to get involved and what the appeal means to her.

What inspired you to join the 'see it. treat it.' Appeal Board? What is your connection to Weston Park Cancer Charity?

I've been a trustee of Weston Park Cancer Charity for almost three years, and throughout that time, I've seen the impact we can have when we come together to support people facing cancer.

Joining the ‘see it. treat it.’ Appeal Board felt like a natural next step.

The appeal is so important for the charity, and it’s pivotal that South Yorkshire has access to the same cutting-edge equipment as other parts of the country.

Weston Park Cancer Centre is committed to providing the very best possible care and treatment for its patients and the MRI scanner will transform the way they are able to plan and provide treatment.

What is your role on the Appeal Board and how does your background contribute to its success?

My role on the Board is to help drive forward initiatives that will ensure we meet our fundraising targets within the timeframes required. I have been utilising my strong professional network to connect with people of influence across Sheffield who can help provide support.

By leveraging those relationships and keeping momentum, I am helping to turn our ambitious goal into reality.

The 'see it. treat it.' appeal is raising £1.85m for a state-of-the-art MRI Simulator - how will this technology transform cancer care for patients across our region?

The MRI scanner will simply be transformative. It will change the way the hospital is able to treat its patients.

It has the potential make a patient’s cancer treatment journey more precise, less stressful, and ultimately more effective.

For patients and their families, this means a smoother journey and greater reassurance at a time when they need it most.

Is there a particular moment or story that has stood out to you since joining the Appeal Board?

Since joining the Board, I’ve met so many people who have shown incredible courage and determination - from those just beginning their cancer journey, to families supporting loved ones, to those who have since sadly lost their battle.

It’s difficult to put into words how powerful and humbling these moments are. Listening to their stories is often overwhelming, but it’s also a reminder of why this work matters so deeply.

Weston Park is that constant, reassuring presence even through the toughest times.

What would you say to someone who is considering donating to the appeal?

Donating to ‘see it. treat it.’ is your way of helping to change the way we treat cancer in Sheffield.

Your contribution will help bring us a step closer to transforming care and treatment. It will make a life-changing difference to patients, their families and our incredible healthcare professionals.

I really urge you to get behind this incredible appeal and help make a difference, today.

Let's make a difference - together

Join our 'see it. treat it.' appeal and donate today online or text CANCERAPPEAL followed by your donation amount to 70580 to give that amount. For example, CANCERAPPEAL 10 to donate £10. Texts will cost the donation amount plus one standard network rate message.