In Memory of James Hastings
The AMMF Team was deeply saddened to hear of James Hastings’ passing late last week. James passed away peacefully with his family by his side in the early hours of Thursday 6th November 2025. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this sad time.
James was diagnosed with stage four cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) after developing signs of jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes) in May 2023. Following his diagnosis, he co-founded the patient group Cholangiocarcinoma Ireland. For over two years, during his own treatment for cholangiocarcinoma, he became a great source of support and a tireless advocate for many other patients in Ireland.
James’ campaign for access to new treatments in Ireland
In addition to co-founding Cholangiocarcinoma Ireland, James launched the campaign, ‘James Fights Back’, calling on the Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland to cover the cost for the immunotherapy, durvalumab, for all patients with advanced cholangiocarcinoma.
AMMF developed evidence submissions about patient and caregiver experiences of cholangiocarcinoma for the HSE to consider during their appraisal processes for durvalumab, and the targeted therapy, ivosidenib. James was instrumental in reaching out to patients and their families in Ireland and collating their stories for inclusion within our submissions.
In September 2025, the HSE approved reimbursement of durvalumab for people diagnosed with advanced biliary tract cancers, such as cholangiocarcinoma and gallbladder cancer. You can read more about this here.
Furthermore, in October 2025, the HSE approved reimbursement of ivosidenib for people with advanced cholangiocarcinoma with an IDH1 gene fault. You can read more about this here.
Reflections from Helen Morement, CEO and Founder of AMMF
“The first we heard of James Hastings was early summer 2023 when we were approached by several people asking for our help on James’ behalf. It quickly became clear that James would be a force to be reckoned with.
“There seemed to be nothing available to him in Ireland, but James was determined to find a way — if not to a cure, then to more precious time with his beloved Marian and their three boys. He reached out to AMMF and, with our support, he found a treatment in London that, initially, seemed to hold out real hope. Sadly, within a year that treatment ceased to be effective.
“Despite his own health challenges and the anxieties that came with them, James remained passionate about creating a fairer and more equitable situation for everyone affected by cholangiocarcinoma in Ireland. His tireless work has already made a difference and will continue to benefit others.
“Cholangiocarcinoma has the uncanny knack of selecting the most special people – and James certainly fits that bill. His legacy is one of courage, compassion, and meaningful change: an improved and fairer future for all those in Ireland affected by cholangiocarcinoma.”
