Oa Hackett, from Norfolk, was among 26 exceptional individuals honoured with the esteemed British Citizen Award (BCA) at the Palace of Westminster. This recognition celebrates their outstanding contributions to society.
The Medal Presentation, held on Thursday 25th July 2024, saw Oa receive the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Healthcare (BCAh). Recipients are entitled to use the post-nominals commemorating their achievements.
In 2014, at the age of 28, Oa was given the news she had breast cancer. What followed was a whirlwind of terrifying uncertainty as she proceeded with chemotherapy, radiotherapy treatment and significant surgery.
Spurred on by her own experience of her breast cancer diagnosis, Oa was determined to find a way to offer support and comfort to others going through treatment.
Inspired by the care packages she had received from friends and family during treatment, she set up and founded her own charity, Little Lifts. Every year 55,000 women and 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer; with 61,000 women living with incurable breast cancer. Little Lifts is on a mission to provide free, thoughtfully curated Little Lifts gift Boxes to every breast cancer patient in the UK undergoing breast cancer treatment. Each Box contains carefully selected products to relieve side effects of treatment as well as mood-boosting goodies to promote emotional wellbeing.
In the East of England, patients automatically receive support via 10 NHS hospital partnerships. Elsewhere in the UK, people can access support by applying to the Little Kindness Fund. The charity, now in its 7th year, and the impact it has had on people’s lives has exceeded all expectation
Stephanie Wood from BCA Partner One Stop commented, “This year’s medalists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times. We’re honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals.”
The presentation, hosted by TV presenter Matt Allwright, was attended by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia. Following the ceremony, medalists enjoyed an Open Top Lap of Honour tour and a certificate presentation at another distinguished Westminster venue.
