Simon Cowell announced as new Patron for GOSH Charity

We’re delighted to announce that Simon Cowell has agreed to become a patron of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity (GOSH Charity).

The title of Patron is the most senior honorary role offered to volunteer supporters, and is given for an initial term of three years.

It recognises the significant and sustained support an individual gives to our work, their on-going commitment to furthering the impact and reach of GOSH Charity, and their personal integrity and dedication to helping us raise funds to improve the lives of seriously ill children and their families at the hospital.

Simon visited Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) earlier this year. He was immediately inspired by the work that happens every day – meeting staff, patients and families who shared their experiences, with some of the children even singing to him during the visit.

While visiting GOSH, Simon spent time with oncology consultant Dr Robert Chiesa, who shared the hospital’s pioneering work using base-edited Car T-Cells to treat previously incurable leukemia.

This treatment involves taking a patient’s immune cells and re-programming them in the lab so they can find and kill cancer cells.

Simon had the pleasure of meeting Alyssa, who benefited from this world-first treatment, alongside her family at our recent clay pigeon shoot, where Alyssa shared her story and made a huge impact on all who heard her speak.

Simon’s partner Lauren Silverman was co-chair of the clay pigeon shoot committee, and her leadership and vision has been instrumental in bringing the concept to life.

With Simon’s support, the event was a huge success, raising an incredible £1.1m towards the new Children’s Cancer Centre.

Our chief executive Louise Parkes said, “We’re proud to welcome Simon Cowell as a Patron of GOSH Charity. His support has already had a powerful impact, from helping raise over £1.1 million for our new Children’s Cancer Centre to connecting personally with patients, families and staff. We’re so grateful for his passion and commitment and we look forward to working together to help give seriously ill children the best chance and best childhood possible.”

Our patrons play a vital role in helping GOSH Charity to transform the lives of seriously ill children at the hospital by offering their time, skills, networks, gifts and passion. We’re extremely grateful for their support.