Couple honoured for tireless epilepsy work

nurses and allied staff in Kirklees to go on distance learning courses at Leeds Beckett and Edinburgh Napier Universities.

All three of the most recent epilepsy specialist nurses in the Calderdale area have been nurses they have supported or sponsored.

Pauline Spencer, the current chairwoman of the Huddersfield Branch of Epilepsy Action, said: “When I needed it most, Joan and Tony were always there.”

Joan said: “We are touched to receive this award. We were put in touch with the then British Epilepsy Association in 1975 and felt inspired to get involved to give others the support we needed ourselves.

“My handwriting first appears in the minute book of the Huddersfield Branch of Epilepsy Action in December 1976 and here I am now, still secretary. It is amazing to look back and see all that we have achieved.

“It hasn’t always been straightforward, and we have overcome many obstacles along the way, but we are proud of the difference we have made. We would like to extend our thanks to everyone we have worked with to make our work possible – it has truly been a team effort.”

Phillip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “Joan and Tony’s extensive and tireless service to Epilepsy Action and people with epilepsy is truly admirable.

“The effects of their efforts are great and far-reaching. I’ve no doubt the many positive contributions they have made to the lives of people with epilepsy across the Kirklees area will continue to have a positive impact for many years to come.”