| Northern Star |
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When my son Richard and his partner Michael decided to enter me for “Role Model of the Year” in the Pride of South Tyneside Awards 2007 I treated the whole thing as a bit of a joke as anything to do with LGBT in South Tyneside has previously been kept very much undercover, it maybe something to do with the silly macho culture that still lingers in the North East.
On hearing that I had gone through to the final three I was amazed. Unfortunately the thrill of that news was marred by me being diagnosed with breast cancer the same week. Although subsequently having to undergo an operation and radiotherapy I managed to film my clip showing the work I do with Parents Enquiry, and how I became known as ‘Aunty Joan’ to many of the gay community in the North East. Most importantly I did manage to get a new outfit for the champagne reception which was held before the award ceremonies. On the day of the awards although still feeling very tired from the after effects of my radiotherapy treatment I felt very excited and proud especially when I saw how handsome my son and his partner looked in their tux’s, acting as my escorts to the reception. The rest of the family including my husband Laurie and friends watched the awards in the theatre. The reception was a fabulous occasion, I never thought I would get to walk down a red carpet! When the time came to go to the theatre for the actual awards I must admit the butterflies started but once listening to other peoples’ stories especially in the “Child of Courage” category I just felt so honoured to be there. The two other finalists in my category as “Role Model of the Year” were a young woman who had done a lot of fundraising for African orphans and a man working voluntarily with young offenders, both worthy winners in my eyes. ITV newsreader Jonathan Morrell was to present the award and after an Oscar like, “and the winner is” the envelope was opened and my name read out. After being physically lifted out of my seat by my son and his partner I made my way to the stage in a barrage of applause, hugs and kisses. I don’t remember much of my time on stage but on asking my son if I was smiling he replied, “Smiling, you were beaming.” Photos and interviews took place immediately after and I was able to stress this award was not just for me but for families everywhere who had gay members and the need to show how proud we are of them. The celebrations continued into the night and when I eventually got home, tired but elated, I looked back on a night I will never ever forget, a great boost to help me over my cancer but a bigger thrill to know that our LGBT families had at last been recognised and put in the spotlight. Joan Small Parents Enquiry North East |