Dr Philip Lewis MBE Special Achievement Award

It was with devastating sadness, in October 2024, that the Mouth Cancer Foundation announced the heartbreaking passing of our Past President and Dentist, Dr Philip Lewis MBE, a distinguished figure in dentistry and raising awareness for head and neck cancers.

Philip, who was involved with our charity since its inception, devoted his career to highlighting the importance of checking for mouth cancers, educated on the early detection of mouth cancer, writing articles, lecturing regularly and training dental teams. In addition to all the amazing work in the field of cancer Philip also ran a single-handed private dental practice on the Isle of Wight.

Philip leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and dedication. He will be remembered as an Ambassador and Past President of the Mouth Cancer Foundation, an excellent Dentist, a visionary leader, and a cherished member of the dental and head and neck cancer community. His life was defined by his love for helping others and his relentless pursuit of educating everyone about mouth cancer.

In Philip’s memory the charity introduced the ‘Philip Lewis MBE Special Achievement Award’ to recognise the efforts of volunteers who go above and beyond, not only for the Mouth Cancer Foundation, but for the work they do to raise awareness and support for all head and neck cancers.

We gave out the 20th Anniversary Philip Lewis Special Achievement Award to Pat and Colin Jones for over 20 years of tirelessly raising awareness and funds for the Mouth Cancer Foundation in memory of their daughter Clare.

In 2024 we recognised the efforts of Karen Leisching-Schroder for giving her time freely to work with patients at all hours on the charity’s private Facebook group, on the Monday night online support group meeting, private one to one calls with patients when they need it, as well as looking at new ways to improve the lives of patients going through treatment and living with a head and neck cancer diagnosis. What is even more remarkable is that Karen herself is a survivor.