Sussex Charity Founder "Deeply Honoured" By BEM Award

Tuesday, 2 January 2024 06:11

By John Warburton @Warblefly

Jan Seward with the 5k run winner of Out Run Cancer 2019

Founder of West Sussex charity Cancer United has been reacting to her appearance in King Charles III's first list of New Year Honours.

Jan Sheward was awarded the BEM (Medal of the Order of the British Empire) given "for her outstanding contributions to the area of support for people with cancer in West Sussex"

Cancer United is a charitable organisation dedicated to providing support, education, and advocacy for individuals and families affected by cancer., that Jan Sheward founded in 2012

The charity describes itself as a "pioneer and leader" in the field of cancer specific exercise — specifically for pre-habilitation and rehabilitation, and offering a range of programmes and services to improve the lives of those impacted by this disease.

Cancer United also gives music and singing a special role within its work.

The charity said this is the second honour for Jan, who was recognised previously in 2022 as a Platinum Champion by her then Royal Highness The Duchess of Cornwall (now Queen Camilla) for her outstanding contribution as a volunteer in the year of Her (Late) Majesty the Queen's Platinum Jubilee.

Jan Sheward said the award reflected the whole Cancer United team's work:

"I am deeply humbled and honoured to receive 'the Medal of the Order of the British Empire' which is a testament to the incredible work of the entire Cancer United team, our Trustees, dedicated volunteers and to the amazing individuals and families we serve.

"Together, we have made a significant and positive impact on the changing views of cancer support by the provision of facilities for pre-habilitation and rehabilitation through cancer specific exercise, social interaction, music and singing and I am committed to continuing this vitally important work."