Her inspirational leadership encouraged thousands of people to reach into their wallets and purses as the campaign she led raised £18 million for cancer research and treatment.
Jacqui Wood’s family, former colleagues and friends, and the scientists whose pioneering work she supported, came together to celebrate her legacy at the official opening of the cancer centre at Ninewells Hospital which bears her name.
It is almost two years since she died claimed by the very disease she spent 20 years pouring her time and energy into defeating but it was evident from the ceremonial speeches that memories of Jacqui remain fresh in the minds of those who knew her.
Professor Sir David Lane, who unveiled the plaque dedicating the centre, recalled: “It was her dream that cancer could be conquered and she found in Dundee a place where that struggle could be carried on.
“She was selfless, full of fun and passionate for the cause of reducing suffering from cancer in the world through supporting research.
“My greatest hope is that her memory will inspire everyone who works in this building, as she inspired me, to work selflessly and with every effort possible to eliminate this disease.”
The Jacqui Wood Cancer Centre brings together around 200 researchers and clinicians on a single site. The aim is to foster greater collaboration between disciplines, ultimately making advances in patient care.
Professor Roland Wolf, director of Dundee University’s medical research institute, explained that treatment was becoming increasingly individualised and a key aim was to give “the right drug in the right dose to the right patient”.
The work being done in the centre and more widely at Ninewells covers the spectrum of cancer prevention, diagnosis and screening, and research to understand the causes of cancer and evaluate new treatments.
Lady Fiona Fraser, the chairperson of the Ninewells Cancer Campaign, explained how important Jacqui had been in making all this possible, describing her as a formidable fundraiser with an infectious charm and enthusiasm.
The £2 million campaign specifically for the centre remains on course to reach its target by the end of the year.
“The support for the special appeal has been amazing and is testament to the high regard in which Jacqui was held,” she said.
Jacqui’s husband Aubrey, who has also played a prominent role in the campaign since her death, reckoned she would have been surprised to be honoured in such a way.
“Jacqui would never have expected a building to be named after her, she was only interested in furthering the quest for a cure for cancer and with the hope that the work at Dundee would go a long way towards this aim,” said Aubrey.