A Wallington-based doctor has been honoured during Volunteers Week by lung health charity Asthma + Lung UK, in recognition of his outstanding volunteering work supporting local people living with lung conditions.
Dr Emad Ibrahim, a consultant radiologist, received the Asthma + Lung UK United for Lung Health Award at the charity’s annual volunteer conference [on 4th June] for his dedication to improving lung health in his community.
Emad is passionate about improving lung health. In his role as an Asthma + Lung UK volunteer ambassador he has worked tirelessly to raise awareness of lung conditions, which affect one in five people in the UK during their lifetime. Emad’s work has included sharing information on social media for parents and carers of children with asthma. He has built strong connections between local residents, healthcare providers and the charity, to ensure that people affected by lung conditions have access to essential support and resources.
Last summer, Emad ran a stall at the community fun day ‘health zone’ on the Benhill Estate, where residents face high levels of respiratory illness. He talked to local residents about managing lung conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and provided advice on quitting smoking.
He has also worked hard to build relationships with local GP practices and collaborated with healthcare providers, including Sutton Primary Care Network, to strengthen community engagement.
Lucia Ciolanel, Volunteer Engagement Manager at Asthma + Lung UK, said: “Emad’s role as a volunteer ambassador for Asthma + Lung UK has been defined by his commitment within his community to raising awareness and advocating for people with lung conditions. Whether it’s through online advocacy, in-person outreach or partnerships with healthcare providers, he continues to make a meaningful impact in promoting better lung health. His passion for making a difference to the community and people with lung conditions really shines through. At Asthma + Lung UK we want everyone with a lung condition to be able to live well, and the work of amazing volunteers like Emad makes a huge difference. We’re really pleased to be able to recognise Emad’s work with this very well-deserved award.”
Emad said: “Volunteering with Asthma + Lung UK has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. After years of study, work, and pauses in volunteering, I realised the importance of giving back and it has been a game changer. Simply, it makes my life happier and meaningful. I have started with Asthma + Lung UK in 2024 and getting this award in my first year was a wonderful surprise in my birthday week keeping me truly delighted. Being part of such a supportive and impactful community is a real privilege.”
The Volunteer Awards at Asthma + Lung are a way to recognise the contributions of the exceptional volunteers who have demonstrated outstanding commitment, dedication and creativity, in serving and engaging their communities in the past year. It’s an opportunity to celebrate their remarkable achievements and express gratitude for their selfless efforts in improving the lives of people living with lung conditions across the UK.
Volunteers are a vital to the work Asthma + Lung UK does to support the millions of people in the UK living with lung disease. To find out more about the ways you could get involved and join the fight for lung health, visit: Volunteer with us | Asthma + Lung UK.
-Ends-