A CONSULTANT praised for the kindness and skill with which he treats patients battling a form of blood cancer has been honoured at a national awards ceremony.

Dr Ala Al-Sabah, consultant haematologist at the Haematology Unit at Llandough Hospital, won a Beacon of Hope Award at the Lymphoma Association’s recent annual awards ceremony.

He was nominated by grateful patient, Mary Lucas, who said she owed him her life.

The ceremony took place during Lymphatic Cancer Awareness Week (September 15-21), which aims to raise awareness of lymphoma, the most common type of blood cancer. Common symptoms of lymphoma include a painless lump or swelling, often in the neck, armpit or groin, feeling worn out for no reason, being drenched in sweat during the night and persistent itching.

The event was hosted by journalist and presenter Alice Arnold who read Mary’s citation to the audience.

It said: "He has been my haematologist for the past eight years since my diagnosis of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He is the gentlest, kindest man, quietly unassuming. His knowledge is vast and has led to some excellent advice throughout my treatment. He does not shout from the rooftops; he just gets on with the job."

She added: "His main aim is exemplary care for his patients. Because of this, his patients feel they have continuity and feel safe in his hands.

"He also has a very dry sense of humour which often dissipates any anxiety you feel when you go in. His skills are also excellent; no pain for a bone marrow biopsy is pretty amazing.

"Finally, he leads the team at the hospital that all admire and trust him without exception. This is a rare leadership quality in this day and age. I don’t know what I will do when he retires."

Jonathan Pearce, Chief Executive of the Lymphoma Association, said: "We were delighted to be able to present Dr Al-Sabah with a Beacon of Hope Award. We specialise in giving reliable medical information and appropriate support to anyone affected by lymphoma, and the Beacons of Hope Awards are a chance for us to say thank you to inspiring people like Dr Al-Sabah and his dedicated team who make a difference."

To find out more about lymphoma, call freephone 0808 808 5555 or visit www.lymphomas.org.uk