My name is Will Ince and I am a consultant oncologist at CUH.
How long have you worked at CUH?
I have been working at CUH for 6 years.
What part of your work are you particularly proud of or find rewarding?
The constant change in available treatments and the ability to contribute to research.
I am principal investigator on clinical trials with a particular focus on novel immunotherapy in advanced cancers. I find the interface between cancer biology, drug development and patient care exciting; designing and recruiting patients to clinical trials is one of the best parts of my job.
I have been fortunate to collaborate with international colleagues in both the US and Europe, travelling to other internationally renowned centres to develop my practice.
How does your team make a difference for patients or families?
I am blessed to work with a large, caring and dedicated team with a huge mix of professionals, with both a research and clinical care focus.
I have been lucky to have fantastic mentors at CUH (Richard Benson, Gill Barnett and Kate Fife) and the whole team make an enormous difference to patients and their families taking them through the journey of what is a devastating time which can takes away one's sense of self, dignity and cause a raft of unpleasant symptoms.
Patients with head and neck cancer in particular require input from many unsung heroes including cancer nurse specialists, trial practitioners, cancer navigators, radiographers, physicists, dosimetrists, speech and language therapists, dietitians, audiologists, data analysts and administrative staff; many of these have a huge impact on patients lives and outcomes without ever meeting them.
What is something you’d like people to understand about your role?
That being an oncologist is not just about prescribing treatments it involves supporting patients through some of the most challenging moments of their lives. Much of the role is about listening, guiding, and helping patients make complex decisions while balancing hope with realism. It also involves a significant commitment to research, education and collaboration to ensure we continually improve the care we are able to offer.
What’s one thing you enjoy outside of work?
I have 3 daughters, 2 labradors and a wonderful long suffering wife who keep me busy.