One Century. One Goal.

One Century. One Goal. content

100 years of life-saving research

It’s thanks to the Changemakers: the supporters, the researchers, the people with cancer who, for 100 years, have united in one goal - a Yorkshire free from cancer.

Here's to the Changemakers

For 100 years passionate scientists, dedicated doctors and committed supporters have shown unwavering determination, community spirit and unstoppable generosity.

Together we’ve brought a century of breakthroughs, progress and life-saving discoveries to people in Yorkshire, and beyond.

Explore the Changemaker wall of recognition

1925 - 2025

100 years of pioneering research, medical breakthroughs and life-saving progress have redefined what’s possible for people affected by cancer in Yorkshire and beyond.

Discover the key milestones supporters and researchers have made possible.

Explore 100 years of pioneering research

In an old black and white photo, two scientists in a lab work at busy stations

A man in a suit stands in front of a large modern screen reviewing a scan close-up

From chemotherapy's roots in Yorkshire...

From his lab in Leeds, Dr. Isaac Berenblum discovered that mustard gas could stop cancer tumours from growing, contributing to the development of chemotherapy.

An old black and white photograph of a man in a lab coat

...to revolutionary cancer treatment across the globe

First developed with funding from Yorkshire Cancer Research at Sheffield University, Lynparza was the world’s first PARP inhibitor – a type of drug that kills cancer cells and has helped save lives across the globe.

Explore more breakthroughs

Thanks to your support, the future looks brighter

£64 million

Yorkshire Cancer Research currently funds 59 pioneering programmes, including 25 clinical trials

710 experts

710 researchers and cancer experts are working on new cancer treatments and cures

175,000 people

175,000 people can take part in life-saving cancer research and services funded by the charity

Celebrating the people behind the progress

Claire, Wetherby

A lady sits on a sofa with a golden retriever

Active Together participant

"The Active Together team focused on addressing the loss of use in my right arm after my lymph node removal. Within four months, I went from struggling to lift a kettle to being able to use the lawnmower."

Professor Richard Passey

In an old black and white photo, a man in a lab coat operates a large machine

Led the charity's first lab

"I am willing to pry into every nook and cranny of nature in the search for the truth, and more truth, about cancer."

Shiela, Harrogate

Shop volunteer

"After I was diagnosed with breast cancer, my whole life felt like it was full of appointments and treatment. When I started volunteering, it felt like an opportunity to take my mind off my situation and have something else to focus on."