Channel Islands Representative Joins Teenage Cancer Trust Youth Group for First Time

A national cancer charity has, for the first time, selected an individual from the Channel Islands to be part of its youth group. Antonia Rubio, 25, is set to articulate the perspectives of young individuals residing in the islands as a member of the Teenage Cancer Trust Youth Advisory Group. This group comprises 30 to 35 young people drawn from various parts of the British Isles, whose purpose is to provide input for the charity’s policy development. Ms. Rubio, a former cancer patient originating from Jersey, has previously advocated for increased awareness regarding the challenges encountered by young people in the island following her own diagnosis with the illness. She expressed that she was “in a lot of shock” upon learning of her selection and stated, “I wanted to kind of be that voice for the younger generation” within the Channel Islands. Ms. Rubio further commented: “It’s really about finding the resources and information and making sure that it’s coming from the UK to the Channel Islands.” Her engagement with the group is scheduled to commence in December, with the position expected to last for a duration of two years. For her prior efforts in assisting young individuals affected by cancer, Ms. Rubio received a nomination for the BBC Radio Jersey Make a Difference Awards. Rosie Vare, who serves as the health information manager at the Teenage Cancer Trust, contributes to the organization of this group. She indicated that the group would “work with the senior leadership team to influence decision making.” Ms. Vare also stated: “It’s really great that we’ve got Antonia on the group as a representative of Jersey and the Channel Islands – to have her perspective on how we can improve our services.”