Mother’s pride

INSPIRING ... Leigh Carlisle

THE UK’s youngest sufferer of a deadly asbestos-related cancer has been nominated for an award after battling to help others.

Brave Leigh Carlisle (28) was put forward for a Pride in Oldham award by her proud family for the inspiring way she has dealt with her fight against mesothelioma.

Leigh, of Derby Street, Failsworth, was diagnosed at the age of 26 after suffering years of stomach pains, and has been through three bouts of chemotherapy and one session of radiotherapy at Manchester’s Christies Hospital.

But she has remained positive and volunteers for Cancer Research UK as well as raising thousands of pounds for charity by organising fundraising events.

Mum Sheila, who made the nomination, said: “Itdoes not stop her from battling on and fighting for the cause against cancer and helping other people.

“We just admire her for how she’s dealing with what she’s going through and, despite it all, she’s has stayed very positive and decided to do what she can to fight for other people.We have found her so brave.”

Dad Mark said: “She’s just about the bravest girl I have ever met. She does not believe in a no-win situation and neither do we. She just refuses to lose.”

Leigh is determined to beat the disease, which kills 2,000 people a year in the UK, and wants to raise awareness and help fund research. She is taking part in clinical trials that could become an approved treatment for others.

Doctors were baffled as to how she developed the fatal disease, which usually affects older people who have worked with asbestos. But it’s believed she may have contracted it taking a shortcut through a factory yard, where asbestos was cut, as a schoolgirl.

Modest Leigh said: “I was quite surprised to be nominated. I did not expect my mum to do that for me. It’s really nice that she thinks I’m deserving of that.

“I’m on a break from treatment and trying to regain my strength and get my life back. I’m getting better by the day.”

She added: “I felt I wanted to give something back and be pro-active. I feel positive by doing that and get a lot of enjoyment from fundraising and volunteering.”

Leigh, who works in marketing, organised a Pink Party in aid of Cancer Research UK.

Despite being in a wheelchair and needing oxygen, she attended the recent Race for Life charity run at Heaton Park to help with the event and support the runners.

And she is currently helping to organise the Relay for Life fundraising event that will take place in Wythenshawe Park next month.

To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk, marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008


Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons