We were saddened by the recent news that former CancerCare team member and loyal volunteer, Chris Ashby, has died, aged 79.

Chris joined the charity as Public Affairs Co-ordinator in 1999, helping to increase awareness, raise vital funds and implement new ideas that still shape CancerCare’s work today. Chris was instrumental in launching the CancerCare Lottery in 2002, which has since grown into one of the charity’s biggest sources of funds.

Following her retirement, Chris continued to give her time as a volunteer at countless fundraising events alongside her husband, Bill, who also volunteered as a driver, helping CancerCare clients with transport to and from their appointments at the charity’s Slynedales centre.

Chris is remembered by husband, Bill; daughters Fiona and Susie; sons-in-law Garry and Steve; and grandchildren, Lizzie, Sam, Connie and Ben. “Mum was the glue that held our family together” said Chris’ daughter, Susie. “She always knew the right thing to say to make you feel better.” Daughter, Fiona said: “Mum was one in a million.” Granddaughter, Lizzie added: “She lived her life helping other people.”

We are extremely touched that Chris’ family chose to invite donations in her memory to CancerCare, helping to continue the work that she supported so passionately in her lifetime.

CancerCare Chief Executive, Alison Stainthorpe, said: “Chris will be remembered with so much admiration and gratitude. Through her years working and volunteering with CancerCare, she made an extraordinary difference and raised funds that have helped thousands of people in our local community affected by cancer or bereavement.”