Inspirational Velindre fundraiser Wayne Griffiths receives British Empire Medal

11 May 2024

An inspirational fundraiser for Velindre’s charity has been presented with a British Empire Medal (BEM) from His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant for Mid Glamorgan Peter Vaughan.

Wayne Griffiths first became involved in fundraising when his late daughter Rhian was diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2010. He received the honour in recognition of his amazing fundraising efforts, which have surpassed £918,000 in memory of Rhian, who sadly passed away in 2012.

Paying tribute to Wayne’s life-changing contributions, Director of the charity Paul Wilkins said:

“Wayne and the Griffiths family’s dedication to Velindre is truly remarkable. Wayne is entirely deserving of this award and the recognition he’s received for his efforts.

“Money raised for Rhian’s Fund has paid for some wonderful projects and roles at the Cancer Centre, including the renovation of the family room and it fully funds one of our physiotherapist roles in the Gynaecology department.

“It’s a pleasure to see the passion and positivity he brings to his role as a charity ambassador, and we’re proud to watch as he continues his fundraising in memory of his wonderful daughter Rhian. I know I speak for the whole of the Cancer Centre when I say thank you to Wayne and congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.”

The presentation took place at a special ceremony in the Mayor’s Parlour at Merthyr Tydfil Civic Centre. It followed the recent presentation of a BEM to Sarah Bull, a Clinical Psychologist and Counsellor at Velindre Cancer Centre.

The BEM was established in 1922 for those who have meritorious civil or military service worthy of recognition by the Crown. The medal recognises the achievements and service of extraordinary people across the UK and is awarded to those who have had a ‘hands-on’ service to the local community that has made a significant difference.

Making a difference

The vital funds Wayne has raised through the Rhian Griffiths Forget Me Not Fund have gone towards a wide range of roles, resources and services at Velindre Cancer Centre.

With one in two people facing the possibility of cancer at some point in their lives, Wayne’s fundraising is making an incredible difference to cancer patients and their families.

Fundraising efforts like Wayne’s helps the charity to invest in opportunities beyond those normally funded by the NHS. The generous donations we receive are invaluable in allowing us to meet the challenges of today and the opportunities of tomorrow.

The charity currently funds:

• World-leading cancer research
• Complementary therapies
• Patient and staff psychology services
• 50% of all cancer Clinical Nurse Specialists at Velindre
• Patient support teams and children’s resources

Learn more about fundraising for Velindre.