The International Society of Paediatric Oncology (SIOP) Nursing Network is proud to announce the launch of The History of Nursing in SIOP – a living document capturing the evolution, achievements, and impact of paediatric oncology nursing within the Society and worldwide.

This landmark publication charts nursing’s journey within SIOP — from the first organised nursing programme at the 1994 SIOP Congress in Paris to the establishment of the SIOP Nursing Network in 2021. It celebrates key milestones such as the development of the SIOP Baseline Nursing Standards, the My Child Matters programme, and nursing’s integration into SIOP leadership and global policy advocacy.

More than a historical record, The History of Nursing in SIOP will continue to evolve as an active, living resource. Each year, it will be updated with new case studies, highlighting the progress, innovation, and global collaboration of SIOP nurses as they work to strengthen care for children and adolescents with cancer across all regions.

Reflecting on the project, Courtney Sullivan, Chair of the SIOP Nursing Network, and co-author, Rachel Hollis said:

“It has been a privilege to work with past and present leaders of SIOP nursing to chronicle our rich history as a global community. There is much to celebrate and be proud of, there are lessons to learn, and experiences to reflect on. The future belongs to all members of the SIOP Nursing Network – together, we need to continue to build, and to remain vigilant to ensure that nursing remains visible, and our voice heard to benefit both our profession, and our patients.”

• Early History: From the first gathering of nurses at the 1987 SIOP Congress in Jerusalem to the creation of the first nursing programme in Paris and the establishment of the first nursing committee. (1994).

• Leadership and Growth: The evolution of the SIOP Nursing Committee, its transformation into the SIOP Nursing Network, and the inclusion of nursing on SIOP’s Board of Directors.

• Global Impact: The development of the Baseline Nursing Standards, the My Child Matters programme, nursing and the Global Initiative for Childhood Cancer.

• Education and Advocacy: The establishment of the Pre-Congress Nursing Education Day and Congress Programme, the celebration of the art and science of nursing at SIOP and the CARE Working Group.

• A Living Legacy: Annual updates will feature case studies showcasing innovation and collaboration across regions, reflecting how SIOP nurses continue to shape global paediatric oncology care, collaboration, education, science, and policy.

“When we first met in Paris, none of us shared the same language – but we shared the same purpose. That connection became the foundation for everything that followed.” – Anne Thompson, founding SIOP Nursing Chair

“The Baseline Standards gave us something powerful: a shared language to advocate for safe, high-quality care – no matter where we work.” – Rehana Punjwani, Pakistan

“We started with limited resources but unlimited determination. Every success story in Africa today stands on that spirit of collaboration.” – Enyo Bosumprah, Ghana

“Nursing leadership is not about hierarchy – it’s about having the courage to speak for patients and for one another.” – Faith Gibson, UK

Written by Rachel Hollis and Carola Freidank, with contributions from  Anne Thompson, Faith Gibson, Julia Challinor and other SIOP nurse leaders, this publication honours the dedication and leadership of SIOP nurses past and present, and looks forward to the continued growth of this vibrant global community.