Neil Ackers, Chairman of the North Wales Prostate Cancer Support Group, travelled to London in recognition of his outstanding work supporting men and their families across the region.
The reception, hosted by Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and attended by the Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens, brought together figures from across Welsh public life to celebrate Wales and the contribution of people making a difference in their communities.
Neil attended on behalf of the North Wales Prostate Cancer Support Group, which runs regular support meetings in Maggie’s at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, Ysbyty Gwynedd, Bangor and Tywyn and organises PSA testing events across North Wales and Cheshire.
Speaking after the event, Neil said:
“It was an incredible honour to walk through the door of 10 Downing Street representing our support group and the men and families we work with across North Wales. I never imagined, when I was first diagnosed, that it would lead to an evening like this.
“But the real reason I was there was to shine a light on prostate cancer awareness. Every conversation we start, every PSA testing event we organise, and every support meeting we hold has the potential to save a life. If my being there helps even one more man to get tested earlier, then it was worth every second.”
While in Westminster, Neil was also given a tour of the Palace of Westminster by Becky’s team, offering him the opportunity to see first-hand where national decisions about healthcare and cancer services are debated and shaped.
He added:
“Walking through Parliament was a powerful moment. So many of the policies discussed there directly affect the men and families we support back home. It reinforced for me why local campaigning matters. The more we speak openly about early diagnosis and support, the more chance we have of improving outcomes for men across North Wales.”
Earlier this month, Becky visited Neil to present him with her February Community Champion of the Month award, recognising his exceptional contribution to the community.
Becky Gittins MP said:
“I was absolutely delighted to nominate Neil for this year’s St David’s Day reception. His commitment to improving men’s health across North Wales is remarkable.
“Following his own diagnosis, Neil chose to turn a deeply personal experience into a mission to help others. Through awareness campaigns, PSA testing events and the growth of our regional support groups, he has helped countless families navigate one of the most difficult periods of their lives.”
She added:
“When I met Neil to present his Community Champion award, it was clear how driven he is by one simple goal: making sure fewer families have to face late diagnosis and the consequences that
come with it. It was important to me that he had the chance to visit Parliament while he was in London, to see how the voices of local people connect to national decision making.
“Prestatyn and the whole of Clwyd East should be immensely proud of what he has achieved. Seeing his dedication recognised at Downing Street was a fitting tribute.”
Reflecting on the reception, Neil said the experience had strengthened his resolve:
“The evening reinforced my belief that you should never give up on your dreams and never underestimate the impact you can have in your own community. I will continue, with the full support of our fantastic committee, to do everything I can to raise awareness and encourage men to come forward for testing.
“And to every man and family member who walks through the doors of one of our support groups, you are the real heroes. Diolch.”
For more information about the North Wales Prostate Cancer Support Group and upcoming meetings, please contact Secretary, David Maitland-Price via email: dmaitland131@aol.com or Facebook North Wales Prostate Cancer Support Group.
