Scalp cooling MD and Yorkshire Cricket Rising Star become ambassadors for teen cancer charity

The Managing Director of Huddersfield-based, Paxman – an expert in scalp cooling technology – along with Alex Lees, rising star of England and Yorkshire cricket have both been appointed as ambassadors for the Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust.

Richard Paxman of Paxman and cricketer, Alex Lees were granted the prestigious title at the Trust’s annual Rose Ball held at the Cedar Court Hotel in Huddersfield.

The duo were recognised for their passionate and continued work in the fight against cancer. Richard was acknowledged for his global work in helping cancer patients retain their hair during chemotherapy, and Alex for his Hit Cancer for Six campaign which is raising awareness of youth cancer amongst the cricket community.

The Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust It funds research into cancers affecting 13-24 year olds, where cancer often strikes in dangerous and more complex forms. The trust also funds support mechanisms in hospitals to improve the quality of life for young cancer patients who suffer loneliness and social isolation. As ambassadors, Richard and Alex will support the charity by helping to raise awareness of the Trust’s work to improve the quality of life for young cancer patients, both during and after their illnesses.

The pair will join a small number of other ambassadors for the charity, including Keith Senior and Andy Raleigh from the world of Rugby League, and two young cancer survivors, Sarah Dransfield and Jacob Simpson.

Speaking about the appointment, Pam Thornes of the Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust, said: “It is a real honour to have Richard and Alex on board as ambassadors. They are two very busy gents in their professional lives. Both have sadly witnessed a parent’s horrendous battle against cancer and we are delighted they are willing to join our fight against cancer and so proud to have Richard and Alex firmly in our corner.”

The Paxman scalp cooler was developed by the Paxman family after Sue Paxman, Richard’s mum, was diagnosed with breast cancer. During this time, her husband, Glenn was determined to find a way to help her and others retain their hair and dignity whilst undergoing chemotherapy. Through the family business, he and his brother, Neil developed the first scalp cooler.

Sadly, Sue passed away in 2000 but her legacy lives on today through the Paxman Scalp Cooling System, which is now a world-leading hair loss prevention system for chemotherapy patients used by over 100,000 patients in 32 countries.

Speaking about the appointment, Richard said: “It is such an honour to be asked to be an ambassador for Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust. We work very closely with the charity and we admire immensely the work they do. It is also extremely poignant for us that the charity’s roots are in Huddersfield like us. I know my mum would be very proud.”

2016 is also a big year for Alex Lees who takes up the captaincy reins of Yorkshire’s one day competition teams – he is delighted that his on field exploits can raise money for a great cause. Alex lost his father Simon to a battle with cancer in 2011 which prompted his aunt (Simon’s sister) to focus her career on the fight against the disease. She has recently completed a PHD on cancer in the young and works at a hospital that is supported by Laura Crane Youth Cancer Trust.

ENDS