We are delighted to share that Sue Collard, long-term supporter of the Bone Cancer Research Trust has been awarded an BEM (British Empire Medal) for outstanding charitable service.
This deeply deserved award recognises "hands-on" or sustained, significant service to the local community, rewarding long-term charitable work or innovative projects that make a real difference. At the heart of this award and everything Sue has done is her daughter Mary.
In 2011 when Mary was just 11 years old, she was diagnosed with osteosarcoma. Six months later, on New Year’s Day 2012, she tragically passed away. Sue and Andy, Mary’s dad alongside their family chose to act, creating The Mary Collard Tribute Fund, a Special Fund of the Bone Cancer Research Trust, so that other families might one day be spared the same heartbreak.
Sue shared:
Mary was loved by everybody, she was such a kind, caring little girl. Mary always wanted to be remembered, and this way she will be.
Those words continue to guide the legacy Sue, and her family have built in Mary’s name.
Reflecting on her British Empire Medal, Sue said:
It’s an absolute honour to have been awarded an BEM. Everything Andy and I have achieved through Mary’s Fund has only been made possible because of the incredible support from our community. By always making sure Mary is remembered, which was her wish, we’ve also been able to help other families.
In October 2011, The Mary Collard Tribute Fund started when one of Mary's closest friends wanted to raise £150 from a local Aquathon. Over 14 years on through Sue’s determination and the generosity of their community, The Mary Collard Tribute Fund has now raised an incredible £864,793. Sue’s BEM recognises not only this remarkable achievement, but also the strength, kindness and hope she continues to share with so many.
Kate Connor, Director of Fundraising at the Bone Cancer Research Trust, shared:
We are incredibly proud of Sue and we’ve always been deeply honoured to be part of Mary’s legacy. Sue’s BEM is a powerful recognition of her strength, compassion and commitment to ensuring that Mary is never forgotten, while also turning her own heartbreak into hope for others. Through Mary’s fund vital research has been funded, crucial awareness raised, and families facing bone cancer have been supported. We are incredibly grateful to Sue and would like to congratulate her on the honour of receiving an BEM.
Learn more about The Mary Collard Tribute Fund