Edward Showler Foundation

The Edward Showler Foundation, established in late 2018 by the family and friends of Dr. Edward Showler—a young doctor who died aged 27 from metastatic clear cell sarcoma—honours his legacy by advancing the physical and mental health of UK sarcoma sufferers. Rooted in Ed's passion for medical research, the foundation prioritises funding transformative sarcoma research, particularly clear cell sarcoma (CCS), alongside awareness, education, and patient support. Its patient-centred ethos drives pioneering efforts like a major multi-year partnership with UCL Cancer Institute's Sarcoma Biology and Genomics group, sequencing the world's largest CCS tissue collection to unlock disease mechanisms and improve treatments, especially for young patients facing rare subtypes.

It funds biomedical research projects, multi-year programmes, studentships, capacity-building collaborations, and select patient-centred charitable activities through UK-registered charities, academic institutions, and occasionally individuals. Thematic priorities centre on sarcoma innovation—genomic studies, specialist training, and support via partners like Sarcoma UK, Royal Orthopaedic Hospital, and Willow Foundation—targeting underfunded areas with high impact potential. Eligible entities must be UK-based (nationwide scope), typically medium-to-large research centres or established charities showing strong mission alignment; no formal income thresholds apply, but grassroots groups are rarely selected.

Grants range from £2,000 for supplementary efforts to £50,000–£200,000 for substantial multi-year awards, decided ad hoc by trustees without deadlines, open calls, or unsolicited applications—opportunities arise via trustee outreach and networks. It excludes private trustee benefits, unrestricted/core funding, and non-UK or unrelated work, distinguishing itself through laser-focus on CCS genomics, refusal of sarcoma treatment stagnation, and transparent governance for enduring patient breakthroughs.