The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation visit Leeds Children’s Hospital

Dr Aida Semic-Jusufagic with patient Eddie in the CRF

We were delighted to be invited to visit Leeds Children’s Hospital to see first-hand how The Natasha Clinical Trial is helping allergy patients in Leeds. Alongside, we were delighted to be joined by our partners Booths, CH&CO, Elior, Greene King and Samworth Brothers, who were able to see how their donations are making a real difference to the lives of families affected by food allergies.

Children as young as 2 are taking part in the £2.7 million Natasha Clinical Trial across 9 NHS hospitals including Leeds Children’s Hospital, part of Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust. The trial aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of commonly available foods to treat severe peanut or cow’s milk allergies.

During the visit, we are so grateful that families of patients taking part in the trial took the time to share their experiences with us, including parents of 2-year-old Iyla who has several food allergies including dairy, egg, nuts, beans and peas. Parents Rachel and Mitesh spoke about how Iyla's dietary restrictions affect so many things in her life from childcare and holidays to day-to-day decisions about where to eat and who to spend time with. Iyla's parents are delighted she has been given the opportunity to take part in The Natasha Clinical Trial.

Patient Iyla with Research Nurse Yasmin (left) and mum Rachel (right)

The Leeds Children’s Hospital trial is being led by Dr Aida Semic-Jusufagic who said:
‘We’re delighted to welcome visitors from The Natasha Allergy Research Foundation and their supporters today and show them first-hand how their funding is already benefiting our patients here in Leeds. By taking part in this trial, we’re helping to shape the future of the treatment of allergy in the NHS'.

Results from the Natasha Clinical Trial are expected in 2027. To read more about our visit CLICK HERE