Purple Star for brave Justin after long battle with cancer

A MAN from Tunbridge Wells was awarded a ‘Purple Star’ by Pancreatic Cancer UK [PCUK] before he died in recognition of his outstanding fundraising activities on behalf of the charity and his support for fellow sufferers.

Justin Standen, who passed away in March aged 50, was diagnosed with the condition in 2013, and was told that his life expectancy would be six to 12 months.

But he defied the odds for more than four years, and dedicated his time to raising awareness of the disease, which has a very low survival rate, and money to support research.

He and his wife Caroline raised more than £15,000 for cancer charities, even though Justin had to und-ergo major surgery and 60 chemotheraphy treatments.

Mrs Standen recalled: ‘While at the hospital, he helped other patients by sharing his experiences of the treatments and helping them with their fears.’

She cited one example: ‘He explained the benefits of having a port fitted at the top of his chest used to administer the drugs as opposed to using a vein in his arm.’

Mr Standen refused to let the condition affect his enjoyment of life, and kept playing for Rusthall Cricket Club, following his favourite rugby team, Worcester Warriors, and working on his allotment.

‘We loved to travel and put a pin on the map for each place we visited,’ said Mrs Standen. ‘We would not let this disease get the better of us and stop us exploring the world.

‘Justin was determined to live life to the full where possible. He show- ed great courage and dignity through all the four and half years of his illness. I am so proud of him.’

Mr Standen, who worked for Schroders asset management company in the City, also joined the PCUK Development Fund Board, which is trying to raise £10million over three years.

In the last week of his life, Mr Standen was awarded the Purple Star in Guy’s Hospital.

He received the prestigious accolade in recognition of his unfailing commitment to make a difference to the lives of people affected by pancreatic cancer.

Diana Jupp, PCUK’s Chief Executive, presented him with the award in March.

She told the Times: ‘Justin was a true inspiration who made an enormous impact at Pancreatic Cancer UK with his unwavering support over the last few years.

‘We all miss him hugely. Optimistic, down to earth and resilient, he generously gave his time and energy to our charity to make a real diff- erence to others affected by this tough cancer.’

She added: ‘He bravely shared his experience of diagnosis and treatment, playing a vital role in helping us spread the word about the disease.

‘Justin leaves a noble legacy here at the charity, and his memory will always be an inspiration for us as we continue to take on pancreatic cancer together.’

The Standens’ fundraising efforts will continue even after his death, with an event being held at the Simon Dickinson Art Gallery in London next month, followed by a dinner in the Channel Islands later in the summer.

Pancreatic Cancer UK funds innovative research to change how the disease is diagnosed and treated.

For more information, visit www.pancreaticcancer.org.uk

PHOTO: NOBLE LEGACY: Justin and Caroline Standen with the Purple Star award