A cancer survivor from Thornaby who became one of the first male volunteers a hospital’s cancer support centre has teamed up with Teesside artist Mackenzie Thorpe to help tell his story.
Lee Bainbridge, 51, from Thornaby, who is a volunteer in the Macmillan cancer information centre at the University Hospital of North Tees, has had a piece of artwork made for him.
After spending the day with award winning artist Mackenzie Thorpe where he shared the impact his diagnosis had had on his mental health, Mr Thorpe created a piece of artwork representing their time together.
Lee, who is a father-of-two, was diagnosed with blood cancer in 2020 after a long period feeling poorly and has had treatment since at The James Cook University Hospital.
Following his meeting with Mr Thorpe and the artwork, Macmillan Cancer Support made a film to record the unveiling.
Lee said: “I am really honoured to have this beautiful piece of artwork created for me and how far I have come.
“I have said before that when I had my cancer diagnosis I had to swallow my male pride and reach out for help from Macmillan.
“A result of that was my involvement with the cancer information centre at North Tees, who offered me so much support with everything.
“I am so thankful for their support. Mackenzie Thorpe has created an incredible piece of artwork representing everything he had heard during our time together.
“Cancer is the biggest challenge many people will ever face – it certainly was for me.”
Alan Chandler, cancer survivorship manager at the cancer information centre, said: “Lee is an amazing person and this artwork and the film Macmillan have made truly show that.
“He is a key part of our incredible team of volunteers and we are thankful for all of the support he has given us.”