Cover story: Lisa’s Queen’s honour

ChemoHero founder Lisa Wallis receives British Empire Medal

“It was very special for me, and a proud moment to gift my medal to my son Stanley,” said Lisa Wallis on receiving her British Empire Medal from the Lord Lieutenant of Devon, David Fursdon, in August.

“I ask you all to continue to support my charity ChemoHero. Life is getting much harder for me and I want to tell you all how much I love you.”

Lisa chose to have her medal presented at North Devon Hospice, an organisation that provides vital care for many local cancer patients. She worked tirelessly to set up and run the charity ChemoHero, despite being diagnosed with breast cancer herself in 2012 aged just 29 years old.

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

She was awarded the British Empire Medal in Queen’s New Years Honours list in 2020 for her services to people with cancer and their families. The presentation was delayed due to Covid-19 restrictions. Lisa received the prestigious award alongside a small group of family and friends.

“My friends and family, and my truly incredible son Stanley, have been those that have held me together over the last decade of treatment and I want to say how thankful I am to them all,” said Lisa.

ChemoHero provides ‘boxes of kindness’ containing 40 items chosen to help bring relief and comfort to cancer patients. The charity has so far sent more than 1,000 boxes to local chemotherapy patients here in North Devon.

Information and support: chemohero.org