A regional press blogger who told the world about his fight against a unique form of leukaemia has won an international award.

Adrian Sudbury has scooped an award for the best medical or health issue at the 2007 Weblog Awards.

The 26-year-old edits the new-look Huddersfield Examiner website but just two days into the role he became seriously ill with two distinct forms of leukaemia.

After the win, he said: “This award doesn’t change anything for me but what it gave me, and those close to me, was a very welcome distraction for a week.

“The result has been an incredible boost. No matter what happens to me, live or die, this is something that will always be remembered and bring a smile to people’s faces.

“What a result and thank you so much to everyone who voted for me. Last week’s voting was so much fun and a really welcome distraction. Can I just say how interesting it’s been too reading some of the other blogs in my category.”

Trinity Mirror’s Steve Harrison and Liam McNeilis from icliverpool, who set up the blog, flew to Las Vegas to pick up the trophy. Trinity boss Sly Bailey even called Adrian to agree to send them out on his behalf.

Adrian said: “Liam and Steve have been incredible behind the scenes making this blog possible. I hope you all agree it looks really good, regardless of the content, and that is all down to them.

“This project is not part of their job but without complaining once they have constantly updated it for me when I have been too ill.”

For more on the awards, click here, or click through to read Adrian’s blog.

His prize comes hot on the heels of an award from the Guild of Health Writers Best Online Feature Award.

Adrian underwent a bone marrow transplant in May and was given the all-clear in September. His blog shows footage of the operation, as well as his thought and a commentary on his life.

Back to the awards index