A BRAVE-HEART mum has received a special accolade from Help for Heroes after brushing aside her own debilitating injuries to help raise thousands of pounds for the charity.
Plucky Lesley Marshall, a 47-year-old Springhead mother of two, received a unique ‘Over and Above’ badge from the charity’s co-founders Bryn and Emma Parry for her efforts.
The couple, who began the Hero Awards five years ago, wrote a letter to Lesley, who has life changing spinal problems, to thank her for her funds and support.
They said: “The badge is only awarded to a limited number of people who have shown exceptional support to the charity.
“We are delighted it’s going to someone so deserving. Your commitment and passion to the cause has been extraordinary.”
Lesley has been a registered volunteer with the charity for five years and during that time has helped to raise thousands of pounds by supporting scores of events.
She joined the volunteers after recovering from a series of key reconstructive operations including having a cage fitted to her spine, plastic ligaments and disc removal.
“I’m in pain most of the time,” said Lesley, an administrator in the family’s residential home business.
“My injuries were caused by wear and tear and they’ve prevented me from pursuing my favourite pastime, horse riding.
“But the injuries made me realise just how it was for these brave souls who couldn’t pursue the hobbies they used to enjoy.
“So I decided to give something back to the men and women in the services who have done so much for us.”
She added: “It was a real shock to receive the award. I had no idea I’d nominated. But it’s absolutely fantastic.”
Lesley was nominated for the award by Denise Mellor, H4H volunteer county coordinator for Greater Manchester, who lives at Grasscroft.
Denise said: “Lesley is not only a wonderful volunteer but a great asset to the Greater Manchester Volunteer Team.
“She is a very loyal, reliable, enthusiastic volunteer, coming on events with me and fellow team members although she herself does not enjoy the best of health.
“She’s always cheerful, helpful, and prepared to go the extra mile when events are in less than perfect weather conditions.”
