June 14, 2018
The NI Cancer Research Consumer Forum (NICRCF) and NI Cancer Trials Network (NICTN) warmly congratulate Margaret Grayson and Lynette McHendry on their Queen’s Birthday Honours. Forum members, staff and the wider cancer research community are delighted by the news and recognition of their extraordinary achievements. Typical reactions have been ‘Fabulous news, so well deserved’, ‘Two amazing and inspirational women. Many congratulations to both!’
Margaret Grayson, NI Cancer Research Consumer Forum (NICRCF) Chairperson, has been awarded an MBE for services to cancer research in NI. Margaret is a trailblazer in Personal and Public Involvement (PPI) in cancer research in NI. Chairperson since the NICRCF was established in 2011, her exemplary leadership and passionate advocacy for PPI in cancer research has been instrumental is creating a culture change of partnership working. In NI and beyond Margaret works enthusiastically with researchers and other PPI representatives influencing cancer research and PPI. Margaret is a valued member of many groups including HSC R&D Public Involvement Enhancing Research, several Cancer Research UK advisory panels, National Cancer Research Institute Consumer Involvement Steering Group, Independent Cancer Patients’ Voice and use MY data. A frequent guest speaker, PPI workshop facilitator and member of many study/project committees and research steering groups, Margaret’s energetic and constructive approach always brings fresh insight and maximises patient benefit. NICRCF members and staff have enormous admiration for Margaret and universally acknowledge how deserving this award is and how fortunate we all are to work with this wonderful friend and colleague!
NICRCF member Lynette McHendry, fundraiser and educator, Inflammatory Breast Cancer, has been awarded an MBE for services to women in the UK with breast cancer.
Following a diagnosis of Inflammatory Breast Cancer in 2015, Lynette set about a campaign to raise awareness of symptoms and raise money for research into Inflammatory Breast Cancer. Lynette says ‘At every opportunity I tell people about Inflammatory Breast Cancer. I don’t refer to it as Breast Cancer as I want every women to know of the very different symptoms than a lump.’ Read more about Lynette’s story here: Lynette McHendry’s Story June 2018. Lynette is an inspiration and support to so many. Her amazing achievements in education and fundraising are a testament to her passion and determination.
Both Margaret and Lynette are most deserving of these awards and all who know them are delighted they have received recognition for their wonderful work and service!