A Norfolk woman, honoured for her exceptional contribution to healthcare, has received an award at the Palace of Westminster.

Oa Hackett was one of 26 outstanding individuals recognised with the 2024 British Citizen Award (BCA).

The accolade, presented on July 25, came with the coveted BCA Medal of Honour for Services to Healthcare.

At 28 years old, Oa was diagnosed with breast cancer, subjecting her to chemotherapy, radiotherapy and significant surgery.

Oa Hackett has won an award for her charity Little Lifts Oa Hackett has won an award for her charity Little Lifts (Image: littlelifts)

The traumatic experience pushed her to deliver solace and aid to those battling similar conditions.

Oa found inspiration in the care packages given to her during her treatments, leading her to establish Little Lifts.

The charity aims to provide every UK breast cancer patient with free, meticulously prepared Little Lifts gift boxes.

These boxes are loaded with items designed to alleviate treatment side effects and enhance emotional health.

On an annual basis, 55,000 women and 400 men are diagnosed with breast cancer, while 61,000 women are contending with incurable breast cancer.

Greg Hackett Oa Hackett Lily Mackdonald Greg Hackett Oa Hackett Lily Mackdonald (Image: littlelifts)

Little Lifts offers automatic support in the East of England via 10 partnerships with NHS hospitals.

In other areas of the UK, help can be sought through the Little Kindness Fund.

After seven years, the effect that the charity has had on people's lives has outperformed expectations.

Stephanie Wood, from BCA Partner One Stop, praised the honourees.

She said: "This year's medallists exemplify the incredible support within our communities, especially during challenging times.

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"We're honoured to partner with the BCA and play a part in recognising these exceptional individuals."

A post-award event saw the champions relishing an Open Top Lap of Honour tour and a certificate event at another esteemed Westminster site.

The ceremony was conducted by TV presenter Matt Allwright and was graced by BCA Patrons Dame Mary Perkins, Founder of Specsavers, and The Rt Hon Lord Dholakia.