LOROS hospice has been recognised on the national stage after winning a prestigious award for a powerful short film about one of its patients and his remarkable outlook on life.
Ryan’s Story has been awarded the Silver People’s Choice Award at the Smiley Charity Film Awards. The three minute film focuses on patient Ryan Archer, who is living with cancer in his spine, charting his treatment and care at LOROS Hospice as well as his extraordinary fundraising efforts through his annual festive tractor run.
LOROS Hospice CEO Camilla Barrow said: “We are absolutely delighted that Ryan’s Story has won. For a hospice to receive so many votes from the public is truly wonderful and shows just how valued hospice care is.
“Ryan was incredibly open in sharing how, with LOROS’ support, he is able to live a full and meaningful life. He’s also an inspiring fundraiser who has raised thousands for the hospice, so we’re thrilled to see him recognised too.”
LOROS also paid tribute to Crosscut Media, who produced the film.
Now in their ninth year, the Smiley Charity Film Awards celebrate charities using creativity to build empathy and drive social change. In a highly competitive field, LOROS Hospice stood alongside major national charities with far larger budgets – and still came out on top.
But beyond the accolade, the film carries an urgent message. High‑quality hospice care is under serious financial pressure.
Camilla added: “As well as telling an emotional and heartfelt story, Ryan’s Story highlights the stark reality that LOROS is facing a financial crisis. We are being forced to make incredibly difficult decisions about the care we can provide.
“People need to know that hospice care is under threat. It may not be there when they or their loved ones need it in the future. Reaching so many people with this message is invaluable.”
Ryan’s Story can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/6jdAk2iwRDc?si=nQg2Ej4VUs94N6X0
