Mary Kahn, the founder of Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support, has been honoured with the distinguished Points of Light Award by the Prime Minister’s Office for her exceptional dedication and outstanding contributions to the community.
The award, launched by Queen Elizabeth II, is testament to Mary’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives of cancer patients and their families in the Axminster and Lyme area.
Mary received her diagnosis in 2017 and, following treatment, was travelling for over an hour from her rural home to access counselling. Mary set up a local group and held the first meeting of Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support around her kitchen table in 2018.
Since then, Mary and her team of volunteers have raised £140,000 for support through counselling and therapy services for hundreds of patients and their loved ones.
Mary’s visionary leadership and tireless efforts have transformed Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support into a beacon of hope, creating a supportive environment for those navigating the complexities of cancer treatment and recovery.
Richard Foorde, MP for Tiverton and Honiton said: “Volunteers like Mary do incredible work. In rural areas like ours, formal services are often sparse and it’s because of the dedication of people like her that our communities have proper support networks in place.”
Speaking on behalf of the group, Bruce Kahn said: “The community served by Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support celebrates Mary Kahn’s well-deserved achievement and expresses deep gratitude for her continued dedication and unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.
“Her dedication to providing practical assistance, emotional support, and a strong sense of community has made a significant and lasting impact on the lives of those facing the challenges of cancer.”
Axminster and Lyme Cancer Support aims to provide support for anyone living with and beyond cancer, including relatives and carers, regardless of age, ill-health, disability, financial hardship or other disadvantages.