Inspirational Velindre fundraiser recognised in New Year's Honours List

3 January 2024

A fundraiser for the Velindre University NHS Trust charity has been recognised in the New Year’s Honours List 2024.

It has been announced that Wayne Griffiths, who first became involved in fundraising when his late daughter Rhian was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2010, has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM).

The BEM is awarded to those who have had a ‘hands-on’ service to the local community that has made a significant difference. In Wayne’s case, he is responsible for over £918,000 being fundraised in his daughter Rhian’s memory.

Paul Wilkins, Charity Director at Velindre, said:

“On behalf of all our staff, volunteers, patients, their families, and the whole community, I’m so pleased to congratulate Wayne on his hugely deserved recognition. We’re all inspired by the way he has honoured Rhian’s memory and created such a long-lasting legacy that will no doubt go on to achieve even more in the future. We’re incredibly grateful for the way Wayne has gone the extra mile for Velindre.”

Two years after Rhian’s diagnosis and at the age of 25, she sadly passed away at Velindre Cancer Centre where she received most of her treatment. The family set up a fund in Rhian’s name and Wayne dedicated himself to helping the hospital and other people in a similar position.

The Rhian Griffiths Forget Me Not Fund has contributed to a wide variety of projects, including funding roles for healthcare professionals, refurbishment of the family room for inpatients, counselling and therapy programmes, research, and many more impactful activities.

Now an Ambassador for Velindre Cancer Centre, Wayne is proud that his grandchildren Hari and Mil also contribute as Young Ambassadors. The fundraising efforts are ongoing as the family remain fully committed to making a difference as they near an incredible £1 million milestone.

To find out more about fundraising with Velindre, please visit: www.velindrefundraising.com