Chris Curtis is the Chairman of The Swallows. Head & Neck Cancer Support Group a UK Head and Neck cancer Charity.  At ESMO2018 they won the best poster: ESMO 2018: Few Patients Advised About Xerostomia After Radiotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer.

Chris was diagnosed on Friday, May 13, 2011 with throat cancer, and his world fell apart. His treatment included radiotherapy, chemotherapy, peg feed (feeding tube), two neck dissections and lots of recovery. In 2012, Chris started the Swallows Head & Neck Support Group (now full charity status), helping him concentrate on helping others and building his belief and confidence back again. The charity now helps patients and carers throughout the UK and has links with many countries around the world. Chris has passed his 5-year date and classifies himself as a cancer survivor dealing with all the side effects and “survivorship.” In August 2016, Chris needed a new challenge and was offered the opportunity to take up the role as a “World Cancer Patient Ambassador.” In 2017 he was recognised by the Queen with the ‘Queens Award for voluntary service’.