26/01/2010
A former cancer patient who was successfully treated at Weston Park Hospital has returned 17 years later – to take up his ‘perfect job’ as Legacy and Trust Officer for the hospital’s charity.

Andrew Russell, aged 54, was first diagnosed with testicular cancer in 1988 and after surgery thought his treatment was over.

But five years on he was given the shocking news that the disease had reoccurred and he needed chemotherapy at Weston Park Hospital to survive.

The father-of-two was cured after undergoing six months of treatment for the disease and now 17 years later, and still fit and healthy, he’s pleased to have come back to Weston Park Hospital, to work for the hospital’s charity.

As the new Legacy and Trust Officer for Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, Andrew will develop charitable giving by working with solicitors and individuals who are considering leaving a financial gift to good causes in their wills and he will also work to secure funds from grant making trusts to support the work of Weston Park Hospital.

“It’s the perfect job, I know the benefits of Weston Park and the fantastic care that is offered here, as well as being able to use my professional skills,” said Andrew, a former solicitor, from Lodge Moor.

He will be liaising with solicitors who are advising clients on drawing up a will and may be considering including a donation to charity.

Andrew is also available to talk informally and without obligation to anyone who is considering leaving a legacy about what is involved in the legal process.

Rachel Thorpe, director of Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity, said: “Last year Weston Park Hospital Cancer Charity received an incredible half a million pounds in legacies, by far the most we have ever received. With all of us tightening our belts right now this money made a huge difference, enabling us to fulfil all our obligations to the hospital over what might otherwise have been a very difficult 12 months. Every one who leaves us a legacy is investing in the future of Weston Park and the fight against cancer, and we really are very grateful.”