The ‘With Ambition Award’ recognises those have gone beyond and always strives for better. The 2023 winner is Jo Millar, founder of The Living Tree, a local support group which has provided a new world for many people living with cancer.
When Jo Millar couldn’t find a local cancer support group to attend in Bridport after her own diagnosis, she had the idea to create one herself. After meeting fellow patient, the late Jo O’Farrell MBE, the idea really grew legs and, together, they founded The Living Tree. A pioneering community-based self-help and support group for people affected by cancer, The Living Tree offers a diverse range of activities including creative writing, gardening, table tennis, swimming, art and ambling.
With an emphasis on supporting each other through friendship and fun, the group has grown strong roots in its community under Jo’s inclusive and compassionate leadership. Always keen to share her vision of transforming lives through celebrating life itself, she and other members have volunteered to help Macmillan showcase The Living Tree around the country, to help other support groups to get off the ground.
‘There’s something really powerful about spending time with people who understand what you’re going through,’ says Jo. ‘I've met the most incredible people, and I can honestly say that having cancer changed my life in new and wonderful ways.’
Find out more about the Thanks to You Awards.