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George's Story

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“We were told nothing could be done, but with the right people and bold decisions, we changed the outcome.” – Jonathan

At just two years old, George was diagnosed with a rare liver cancer – rhabdomyosarcoma – and an ultra-rare genetic condition, Mosaic Variegated Aneuploidy (MVA) Syndrome.

With determination and the support of experts like Professor Anil Dhawan, George underwent a pioneering two-stage operation using Nano Knife Technology – becoming the first child in the UK to receive this treatment on the liver. Today, George is fit, healthy, and thriving.

A huge thank you to the Ipsen Foundation who have helped us put together this short film about MVA. The film helps explain the challenges of an ultra-rare disease diagnosis, living with such a rare condition and the ‘grit’ needed to search for a treatment.

​​MVA Matters

Periodically we update our progress, event and progress through an online newsletter called MVA Matters.

Real families. Real experiences.

At the MVA Society, we know that personal stories are as important as scientific research. They help families feel less alone, inspire hope, and show the tangible impact of expert care and pioneering treatment. Our Community and Stories hub shares the unique first-person experiences from children, adults, and their families.

​​Share Your Story

We want to hear from you. Whether you’re a patient, a parent, or a family member, your experience can inspire, inform, and help guide others in the MVA community. Please email us on info@mvasociety.org.

MVA in the News

Latest News

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Rachel’s fundraiser

In September, Rachael (George's mum) swam a mile in the Serpentine race on behalf of the MVA Society. She came an amazing ~250th out of 6,000 swimmers!
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MVA’s first research conference

On 17th September we held our first ever Research Conference at GOSH, London. It was a huge success and a real milestone event for the Charity with around 65 attendees,...
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MVA Society does the London-Brighton bike ride

13th Sep, the small but mighty MVA Society took on the London-Brighton bike ride in conjunction with Tanner Pharma Group. And for several of us it was anything but a walk in the park....
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Tanner Pharma Group charity golf day

On Friday 4th September, Tanner Pharma Group held their annual charity golf day – and this year the MVA Society was the lucky beneficiary. It was a fantastic event with...
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Meeting a family in Virginia

Last week we were blessed to be connected with Virginia and Andrea di Lallo, in Bologna, and their amazing children, Lavinia (7) and Valerio (5). Both children have MVA, but...
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Reverend Kate Bottley is now a patron of MVA Society

The MVA Society is delighted to announce that Rev’d Kate Bottley has agreed to be the Patron of our charity. Kate, on her Radio 2 program – Good Morning Sunday...
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Hadrian’s Wall & Italian Comino Walks

In July, a teacher from the school that George attends - who happens to share the same birth date (he's a little older!) - took on two challenges to raise...
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MVA Society on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show

https://youtu.be/XHtcQI_N1t0?si=PKwYnrcBOPvTOC65 The MVA Society had an amazing visit to the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on Virgin Radio on 2nd June. What a great guy and what a great opportunity to...
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Camino Challenge

In May, two great friends of JB and the Bracey Family walked the 750km Camino Way in a record breaking 21 days. Doug and Riddick, put themselves through the mill...