Congratulations to the winners of the 2024 Shining Star Awards.
Chris Whellams
Gaz Emmerson Fundraiser of the Year (chosen by public vote)
Chris transformed personal tragedy into hope by raising over £30,000 for Sarcoma UK in memory of his late wife Laura, who died aged 31 from myxoid liposarcoma. His charity gala and continued dedication to fundraising while raising their young daughter demonstrates extraordinary resilience and commitment to helping others affected by sarcoma.
Team Chazza
Group Fundraisers of the Year
Led by Charlie Hunt’s wife Thandi and sister Susie, Team Chazza has raised an extraordinary £400,000 toward their £1 million target for ultra-rare sarcoma research. Recognisable by their signature blue wigs and tutus, the team has completed marathons worldwide, climbed to Everest base camp, and organised numerous events in memory of Charlie Hunt.
Liz Ridgway, University College Plymouth NHS Trust
Healthcare Professional of the Year
Plymouth nurse Liz Ridgway pioneered one of the UK’s few dedicated prehabilitation services for sarcoma patients. Her innovative program provides comprehensive physical, nutritional, and emotional support before treatment, potentially transforming pre-treatment care for sarcoma patients nationwide.
TommyInnit
Partnership of the Year
YouTube creator Tom Simons (TommyInnit) has transformed how Sarcoma UK connects with younger audiences. As a Celebrity Ambassador, he’s raised vital awareness among millions of fans in memory of his friend Technoblade, securing Sarcoma UK’s selection for the JingleJam Christmas Appeal gaming fundraiser.
The Rt. Hon. Jeremy Hunt MP
Political Voice of the Year
The former Chancellor has leveraged his political platform to advance sarcoma awareness and research following his brother Charlie’s death. His efforts, including hosting a reception at 11 Downing Street and completing the London Marathon alongside the 18-strong Team Chazza who have raised over £100,000 for sarcoma research.
Dr. James Watkins and team at East Genomics Laboratory Hub, CUH
Research of the Year
Dr. Watkins and his team at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust demonstrated the transformative potential of whole genomic sequencing in sarcoma care. Their groundbreaking study showed that WGS could change diagnosis and treatment options for one-third of patients, representing a significant advancement in personalised cancer care.
Darrell McDonald
Roger Wilson Inspiration of the Year
Diagnosed with synovial sarcoma on his 40th birthday, Darrell channeled his experience into “Straight Red?”, a book offering hope to others facing cancer. While undergoing treatment and raising young children, he became one of the faces of Sarcoma UK’s Sarcoma Awareness Month campaign, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis.
Kate Munday-Hoctor, Parents Sarcoma Support Group
Sarcoma Support Group Champion of the Year (chosen by public vote)
After experiencing firsthand the lack of support available when her daughter Amber was diagnosed with sarcoma, Kate founded the Sarcoma Parents Support Group. The network now supports over 20 families nationwide, providing crucial emotional support and expert guidance to parents facing their children’s cancer diagnoses.
John and Sue Young
Volunteer Achievement of the Year
Since John’s liposarcoma diagnosis in 2015, this remarkable couple from Gilling West has shown extraordinary dedication to Sarcoma UK’s mission. John, a two-time cancer survivor, has completed multiple Great North Runs post-surgery, while together they’ve devoted countless hours to supporting events, raising awareness, and providing encouragement to others affected by sarcoma.
Amelie Callanan
Young Sarcoma Voice of the Year (chosen by public vote)
At just 11 years old, Amelie inspires others by competing in multiple sports against able-bodied children after undergoing leg amputation due to Ewing sarcoma. A Paralympic hopeful, she actively works to make sporting events more inclusive while raising awareness through her school and community engagement.
