AN 88-YEAR-old well-known Rotarian has shared his "heartbreak" after not being able to help out at the Marie Curie collection at Morrisons

Rufus Adams was advised by his doctor not to step out due to a chest infection.

Mr Adams's beloved wife Megan passed away in 2020 as a result of Parkinson's disease and it was Marie Curie nurses who helped the family, and Rufus in particular, during her last difficult months. 

Rufus said: "Quite simply, I do not know what we would have done without the end-of-life care provided by the Marie Curie nurses who assisted our family both day and night to get through this really difficult and emotional time.

Rhyl Journal: Rotarian colleagues collecting in full regalia at Morrisons Rotarian colleagues collecting in full regalia at Morrisons (Image: Alan Duke)
"I have supported the charity for many years now through my work with the Rotary Club of Rhyl but it is not until it affects you personally that you realise the incredible work which they do.

"I am so disappointed that I was not able to turn out to assist my Rotary colleagues and I urge all the generous people of Rhyl to donate as much as they can afford to this wonderful organisation."

Mr Adams, who has two children, Ruth and Dylan, is also a grandfather and great grandfather.

He was Head of Adult Education in North Wales for 20 years and is one of the most senior of all the Rhyl Rotarians; however, he is still a very active member who participates in all the fundraising activities for which the club is renowned.

As Deputy Director, he helped to set up the Samaritans base in Rhyl, the very first such base in North Wales. 

Mr Adams was anxious to thank - Denbighshire Social Services, the Rhyl District Nurses, Clarence House Medical Centre and Seashells Care and Support Services for their valuable care and assistance throughout.

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Tony Thomas, President of Rhyl Rotary Club, said: "Rufus is a most remarkable man who has been a Rotarian for over 50 years. He has spent his life helping others in a quiet unassuming way and has devoted so much of his time and efforts to charitable causes. We are lucky to have him as a member."

Rotarian Helen Thomas, who organised the collection with Ruth Gilford of Marie Curie, said: "The Marie Curie charity provides end-of-life support for terminally ill patients and Rufus is a shining example of the army of dedicated fundraisers and carers who give up their time freely to help in any way they can.

"His dedication over so many years and the ongoing participation of Rhyl Rotary Club have drawn warm praise from the charity; we look forward to continuing to support this very worthy cause in the years ahead."

Anyone interested in contact the Rotary Club of Rhyl can telephone Pete McKenzie on 07775553688 or e-mail pete_mckenzie@sky.com

For more details about Marie Curie telephone 0800 716 146 or visit www.mariecurie.org.uk