This is one example of the benefit from the research that OSCAR’s is funding.
Helping Children with Brain Tumours: The Potential of Methylphenidate
“Our son, Jake, was diagnosed with a brain tumour when he was nine. The past two years have been incredibly challenging—he underwent surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, and while the treatment has been successful in removing the tumour so far, we started noticing changes in him afterwards. He struggled to concentrate, found it hard to keep up with schoolwork, and became easily frustrated. He had always been a really laid back child, but we started to have some difficulties with anger. Simple tasks that he used to manage easily suddenly felt overwhelming for him. His teachers noticed it too—they told us he would zone out in lessons and found it difficult to follow instructions.”
“He tells us he feels more like himself again”
“We were relieved when the hospital psychologist suggested trying methylphenidate to help manage these difficulties.
We were nervous at first, but we knew how much Jake was struggling, and he was keen to give it a go.
Since starting the medication, the difference has been incredible. Jake is much more focused in class, and his confidence has grown so much. He tells us he feels more like himself again — he can keep up with his friends in lessons, finish his homework without getting upset, and even enjoys reading, which he had started avoiding before.
His teachers have noticed the change too, and we feel reassured knowing that he has the support he needs both at school and through his hospital team. It’s been a huge relief for all of us, and while we know there may still be challenges ahead, seeing Jake happier and back on top of his learning has made all the difference.”
From Dr. Sarah Verity, Paediatric Neuropsychologist (Neuro-Oncology), at the Great North Children’s Hospital.
This year is shaping up to be a busy and important one at the Great North Children’s Hospital as we continue our work exploring how methylphenidate can support children who have experienced cognitive difficulties following a brain tumour diagnosis.
Some children who have had a brain tumour — whether due to the tumour itself or the effects of treatment — struggle with attention, memory, or processing speed. These challenges can make school much harder, affect confidence, and impact everyday life. Yet, there are currently very few evidence-based treatments available to support them.
At Great North Children’s Hospital, Newcastle, we’ve been working on a project investigating whether methylphenidate could help improve cognitive function in these children.
Thanks to the generous support of funders — including OSCAR’s PBTC and others — we have been able to develop this as part of a wider programme of research.
Now, we’re taking the next step: applying for funding for a five-year UK-wide study. It is incredible to think that the application itself will take up a lot of this year and next, but that is the nature of applying for the bigger grants! If successful, we will spend 2026 securing ethical and regulatory approvals, with the aim of beginning recruitment in 2027. We are incredibly hopeful that this work will lead to better support for children with brain tumours, helping them to reach their full potential and thrive after treatment.
Dr Sarah Verity
Paediatric Neuropsychologist, GNCH
