A FLIGHT attendant has been nominated for an award by a blood cancer charity for fundraising in memory of her dad.

Gemma Morris, 37, from Horsham, has been shortlisted for the individual fundraiser of the year award at the Anthony Nolan supporter awards after raising over £29,000 for the charity since 2017.

The awards recognise outstanding achievements of volunteers, fundraisers, clinical supporters and donors who help the charity save lives.

Over the last five years, Gemma has taken part in various events to fundraise, including the London Marathon Ride London and Swim Serpentine, in memory of her dad who passed away from blood cancer.

Gemma said: "My dad never had the opportunity to have a transplant, but I know that Anthony Nolan tried to find a match for him.

"That's why I raise money for Anthony Nolan so more people are able have that chance,

"My dad and I just had an amazing bond. I was distraught when we lost him. That's why I run in his memory, it's nice to do this in his legacy."

She said she was "blown away" by her nomination for the award.

"I never in a million years thought that my efforts would be awarded like this, it truly means the world to be recognised," she said.

"I'll continue to run, swim and cycle as many challenges as I can as long as I can continue to raise awareness and funds for Anthony Nolan."

Gemma also plans to compete in the Marathon de Sables, a 250 kilometre race across the Sahara Desert, which takes six days to complete and pushes even the fittest competitors to their limits. She was forced to withdraw from the challenge in October, but plans to return again next March to complete what she started.

Henny Braund, chief executive of Anthony Nolan, said: "It is remarkable to see how many people support our work to find a match for those in need of a stem cell transplant. Without them, none of our life-saving work would be possible.

"Gemma's commitment to raising funds for Anthony Nolan in her dad's memory has been truly inspiring."

Winners of the Anthony Nolan Supporter Awards will be revealed at 7pm on February 17.

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