A Kirkcudbright man who has lived with an incurable form of blood cancer for more than half a century has been recognised for his voluntary work.
Ashley Medicks was diagnosed with cutaneous T cell lymphoma, which affects his skin, when he was just 17.
And he has now spent more than two decades supporting Lymphoma Action – the only UK charity dedicated to lymphoma.
It recently held its first ever Volunteer Recognition Awards, with Ashley one of those who was honoured.
Ashley, 68, said: “I wanted to volunteer with Lymphoma Action initially as I had reached out to the helpline when I myself was in a difficult situation, health wise. The response that I got was outstandingly helpful to me, for which I was so grateful. When I had the opportunity to have a close look at the work this amazing charity has done, and continues to do, it prompted me to offer my help.
“My involvement with Lymphoma Action mainly takes the form of being a buddy to people who have asked for support in living with a very rare form of lymphoma, called mycosis fungoides, or cutaneous t-cell lymphoma.
“I have lived successfully with this incurable form of blood cancer for the past 52 years. Consequently, I have some positive feedback and support to give to these callers.
“I have also, due to my studying this disease for over four decades, contributed to the excellent information produced by Lymphoma Action on the subject and have been proud to serve on two committees.
“Overall, I have been fortunate enough to have been a volunteer for Lymphoma Action for more than 23 years. Being offered this award is a real privilege and came as a total surprise.”
Lymphoma UK’s volunteering development manager Carly Benton said: “We want to say a huge well done to Ashley for his well-deserved award. We simply couldn’t reach as many people as we do without the support of our volunteers. They make many of our services and activities possible.
“Volunteers, like Ashley, have such a positive impact and enable us to inform, support and connect with thousands of people affected by lymphoma.”
Director of services Dallas Pounds added: “We were delighted to announce that Ashley had won a volunteer recognition award. We owe so much to all of our amazing volunteers for the time, energy and compassion they offer to those affected by lymphoma.
