When someone leaves a gift in their will to Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, they’re doing more than making a generous gesture—they’re helping to shape the future of cancer care.
A recent legacy donation of £5,000 is doing just that, by helping to fund postgraduate training for two of our experienced radiographers, Will McGuire and Emma Bycroft. Their stories show how this investment is already making a difference to patients.
Investing in expertise
Will McGuire, who joined the Centre in 2013, recently completed a Master of Science in Advanced Medical Imaging at the University of Hertfordshire—achieving a distinction. “When I started, I had no formal postgraduate education,” he explains. “This funding allowed me to go from someone with a strong interest in MRI to someone with a deep, evidence-based understanding of how the technology works and how to use it to best serve patients.”
Will’s studies didn’t just enhance his technical knowledge. He also gained valuable skills in leadership, communication, and research—skills that are now helping him lead his team more effectively and improve services across the Centre. His final research project focused on optimising prostate MRI scans using cutting-edge deep learning software—technology made possible by previous charitable funding. “The result is better image quality, even on lower-strength scanners,” he says. “That means more accurate information for oncologists and ultimately better outcomes for patients.”
Putting patients first
Emma Bycroft, who has been with the Centre for over a decade, is working towards her Master’s degree at City University in London. She’s already completed a postgraduate diploma, winning an academic achievement award for her top marks in the Physics of MRI and Clinical Applications of MRI modules. She was recognised alongside her colleague Geraldine, who received an award for her postgraduate work in CT imaging, also funded by Paul Strickland Scanner Centre.
Her most recent module focused on patient-centred care, and it’s already having a tangible impact. “I chose to focus on autistic patients in MRI,” she says. “We’ve made simple changes—like offering a quiet waiting room, dimmed lights, and one-to-one communication—that can make a huge difference to someone’s experience.”
Emma’s work is helping ensure that all patients, regardless of their needs, receive compassionate, personalised care. “If a patient is anxious or overwhelmed, they might not even attend their scan,” she explains. “By making small adjustments, we can help them feel safe and supported—and that means we get better scans, which leads to better treatment decisions.”
A ripple effect
Both Will and Emma are passionate about sharing what they’ve learned. “The knowledge doesn’t stay with one person,” says Will. “It spreads through the team. Everyone benefits—and so do our patients.” Emma agrees. “I’ve shared all my assignments and presented my work to the department. It’s about raising the standard for everyone.”
Why it matters
For patients, the benefits are clear. Better-trained radiographers mean higher-quality scans, more accurate diagnoses, and a more compassionate experience.
For supporters, it’s a powerful reminder of how a legacy gift—no matter the size—can have a lasting impact. “This funding helps us become not just better radiographers,” says Will, “but more well-rounded professionals. It’s not just about academic achievement— it’s about delivering the best possible care.”
However big or small your gift is, it will help us to detect, treat and monitor cancer and other serious illnesses faster and more effectively. It could also help us support clinical research that may transform cancer treatment for good.
Get in touch today for a confidential, no obligation chat. You can ring Caroline Wren on 01923 886315 during office hours or email us at appeals@stricklandscanner.org.uk. Or for more information about leaving a legacy go to www.stricklandscanner.org.uk/legacy
