A FORMER cancer patient who received a bone marrow transplant exactly 30 years ago has marked the anniversary by kindly donating £1,000 to the ward which treated him.

Originally from Irvine, 50-year-old Ross Happell was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia in 1986 and received a bone marrow transplant in 1987.

Mr Happell’s parents, Doris and Tom, also generously matched the amount bringing the total to £2,000 which was donated to Ward 3A at University Hospital Crosshouse.

Ross said: “To mark the anniversary and give recognition to the work and dedication of the staff at that time and as a small token of thanks for all the wonderful work, I along with my wife, Kirsteen, and family, decided to make this donation to the hospital that along with Glasgow Royal Infirmary were responsible for the successful treatment.”

Dr Peter MacLean, Consultant Haematologist and Cancer Clinical Director, said: “We are extremely grateful to Ross and his parents for their generous donations. We are delighted that since receiving his treatment, Ross fully recovered and that he has taken the time to donate this money and acknowledge the ward and staff.

“The money will go into the hardship fund which is used to support patients and families who find themselves in financial difficulty when starting cancer treatment.”