Tributes to ChemoHero Lisa

Tributes paid to leading cancer campaigner

Lisa Wallis the founder of the North Devon based charity ChemoHero has passed away, after being diagnosed with breast cancer almost a decade ago.

As we reported last month, she was presented with the British Empire Medal at North Devon Hospice (opposite right) for services to people with cancer and their families, she died just a few days later on August 26th.

“She lived life to the full, putting others before herself,” her husband Rob wrote in a tribute on Facebook. “Lisa hated the expressions like ‘lost her battle with cancer’. She said if it was a battle or a fight, she would stand a chance of winning, and it was soon evident there was no chance.”

Lisa Wallis - photo Robert Wallis

“But what she did win was the hearts of everyone she met with that unforgettable smile, and her overwhelming sense of kindness. She carried herself with dignity, humour and such courage.”

Her funeral took place at North Devon Crematorium on September 17th, and more than £16,000 has so far been raised for North Devon Hospice in her memory.

Among messages she left for her husband Rob, to help him with her passing, she asked those who loved her to make individual pieces of bunting to decorate her coffin.

Lisa’s family say they’re “incredibly proud of all she has achieved in her short life”. Diagnosed with breast cancer in 2012, the day after her 30th birthday, Lisa worked hard to establish and run the charity ChemoHero.

They provide ‘boxes of kindness’ containing 40 items chosen to help bring relief and comfort to cancer patients. The charity has so far sent more than 1,500 boxes to local chemotherapy patients here in North Devon.

“Lisa was one of a kind and helped so many people with cancer,” added Rob. “She often stayed awake, even after having tough treatments herself, to message someone else struggling with their own diagnosis.”

Paying tribute, Jessica French said, “Lisa was an unimaginable inspiration to everyone around her and she felt like sunshine!” “Her courage, strength and resilience has been an example to everyone who’s hearts she touched,” said Naomi Holbrook. Della Dunckley added, “Our hearts break for such a beautiful, kind, brave warrior and inspirational soul, who made everyone feel like a friend.”

The Lord Lieutenant of Devon presented Lisa with her award, with husband Rob and son Stanley

Information and support: chemohero.org