What gives life meaning is not only how it is lived but how it draws to a close...

and important approach may be put into the ‘too difficult’ box. But I also have such great hope. So many cancer patients collaborate and support each other.

“They create that community of love and determination. All we ask is doctors do the same… learn from each other. “ECI will focus initially on GBM because it is so tough to beat, so it’s all about sharing knowledge at every level. “If we achieve this we will go a long way to crack GBM and other cancers. For what would every cancer patient want? To know that the best, the latest science was being used. What else do they want?

“They need to know they have a community around them supporting and caring, being practical and kind.”

The Brain Tumour Charity praised her inspirational speech.

Chief executive Sarah Lindsell said: “Tessa Jowell’s passion and dedication to public service has touched countless lives over more than four decades. This afternoon, she showed that she has lost none of her determination to help others even in the most difficult personal circumstances.”

Mr Hunt tweeted: “Just been privileged to listen to incredible powerful and moving speech by Tessa Jowell on the need to speed up clinical trials process for brain cancer patients.

“She is of course right and we look carefully at her sensible suggestions.”