Tamzin Worthen – Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year nominee

Tamzin Worthen – Charity Champion or Volunteer of the Year nominee

University of Staffordshire student Tamzin Worthen is continuing with her studies despite undergoing treatment for cancer – and she also finds time to volunteer for charity.

The 24-year-old, from Werrington, is in the third year of a health and social care course and aims to have a career in social work after she graduates.

In June she had surgery to remove part of her pancreas after a cancer diagnosis and faces a lengthy and challenging recovery process.

She is a lead charity shop volunteer for Midlands Air Ambulance and was recently presented with a Charity Shop Volunteer of the Year Award by the charity.

Tamzin has now been nominated in the Charity Champion or Volunteer category of the Your Heroes Awards by her proud mum, Sarah Worthen.

Sarah said: “Tamzin’s unwavering dedication to the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity, alongside her rigorous studies at University of Staffordshire, exemplifies extraordinary commitment, courage and community spirit. Having volunteered with the charity for over a year Tamzin quickly stepped up to become a Lead Volunteer.

“She consistently goes above and beyond, dedicating extra hours and additional days without hesitation, driven by a deep and genuine passion for the cause.

“In January, following a bout of flu, Tamzin underwent a routine ultrasound due to having a single kidney, which unexpectedly revealed a concerning anomaly. In June, following a successful yet major surgical procedure to remove part of her pancreas after a diagnosis of cancer, she faces a lengthy and challenging recovery process.

“At just 24 years old she navigated profound physical hurdles, significant complications and permanent lifestyle adjustments, including strict pre-meal medication regimens, with remarkable grace.

“Despite the immense gravity of her diagnosis and the rigorous 12-month recovery that follows, Tamzin’s spirit remained unbroken. Refusing to let adversity stand in her way, she has returned to her university studies and seamlessly resumed her vital role at the charity shop, approaching her work with the same enthusiasm as though nothing had changed.

“Tamzin’s fierce determination, resilience and optimism in the face of life-altering circumstances are nothing short of inspiring. She is a shining asset to both University of Staffordshire and the Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and her unwavering strength makes her a truly worthy recipient of this recognition.”