Our Patrons

Former Liverpool and Leeds United defender Dominic Matteo is a proud Patron of YBTC, bringing his strength, resilience and voice to help raise vital awareness of brain tumours. After being diagnosed with a rare anaplastic ependymoma, Dominic underwent life-saving treatment and has since become a passionate advocate for better research funding, earlier diagnosis and improved support for patients and families.

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Dominic openly shares his experience to remind others that a brain tumour can affect anyone, from any walk of life. Despite the lasting challenges he lives with, he continues to “crack on” with determination, using his platform to inspire hope, champion change, and support our mission that no one in Yorkshire should face a brain tumour alone.​​

Acclaimed Yorkshire-based actress Susan Cookson joins YBTC as an Honorary Patron, bringing warmth, empathy, and a deeply rooted commitment to supporting those affected by brain tumours. Best known to millions for her standout roles as Maggie Coldwell in Casualty and Wendy Posner in Emmerdale, Susan has built a distinguished career across British television, appearing in Early Doors, Bodies, Land Girls, Coronation Street, and many more beloved dramas.​ With characteristic humility, she shares: “[I am] so proud to be even a small part of such an amazing campaign and fight against such a cruel disease.”

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Her long career, spanning everything from powerful medical storylines to gentle comedic roles, has shown her ability to embody compassion and resilience on screen. As a Patron, she brings that same authenticity to championing the experiences of patients and families across Yorkshire.

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Susan’s dedication to raising awareness and her heartfelt support for the charity strengthen YBTC’s mission and offer hope to everyone navigating the challenges of a brain tumour diagnosis.

Lisa Connell, Founder of Influential Stars, is a Patron of YBTC, using her platform and experience to raise awareness of brain tumours and support those affected across Yorkshire.

 

Diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour, Lisa speaks openly about the challenges of living with the condition, including memory loss and ongoing monitoring. Her work through Influential Stars empowers people to turn influence into meaningful support for causes, reflecting her commitment to practical impact.

 

As a Patron, Lisa proudly stands alongside those affected by a brain tumour, championing awareness, connection and support, and reinforcing YBTC’s mission that no one in Yorkshire should face a brain tumour alone.

The outgoing Lord Bishop of Leeds, Nick Baines, serves as an Honorary Patron of YBTC, bringing authenticity, compassion and a characteristically thoughtful voice to supporting those affected by brain tumours. In his widely read blog, Musings of a Restless Bishop, Nick spoke candidly about his own diagnosis and treatment, sharing: “In the last nine months I have had a brain tumour – benign but growing – dealt with by gamma knife surgery.”

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Nick’s willingness to discuss his experience openly, with a blend of honesty and gentle humour, has helped raise vital awareness of the realities faced by many. Speaking in the House of Lords on 24 November 2025, he reflected with characteristic wit: “I was diagnosed with a benign tumour and the treatment was exemplary. On the real upside of this, I have a lot of documentary evidence that I have a brain.”

His commitment to sharing his story, championing compassionate care, and standing alongside the people of Yorkshire strengthens YBTC’s mission.