A farewell to Heidi Watson - National Clinical Lead

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the resignation of our National Clinical Lead – Heidi Watson.

Heidi has led the Network since its inception and has been the driving force in connecting and energising the sector to improve cancer care for young people in Aotearoa. Her leadership has been pivotal in achieving significant milestones, including the development of the AYA Standards of Care and the implementation of the AYA Cancer Action Plan.

Heidi stands as a pou and a guiding light for young people with cancer in Aotearoa. Her dedication, passion and energy have left a strong legacy, for which we are deeply grateful for.

While Heidi will be transitioning from her role, her advocacy for AYAs will continue as she leads the implementation of the North Island Sarcoma Service. We extend our heartfelt wishes for success in her new endeavours and will continue to hold her legacy as a Network.

Please see below a formal acknowledgement letter from Dr. Richard Sullivan, Governance Group Chair of AYA Cancer Network, and Rami Rahal, CEO of Te Aho o Te Kahu – The Cancer Control Agency.