A Bushey resident who has gone above and beyond to help others during the pandemic has been awarded with an MBE during the Queen’s Birthday Honours in October for her services to the community in North West London.
Chandni Sejpal Shah MBE has been featured in previous issues of BusheyNews for all the work she has done for North London and Hertfordshire.
The Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH) in Stanmore was one of a number of locations to benefit from the selfless actions of a woman who set about helping the community during the pandemic.
Chandni, alongside her cousin Reena Popat, delivered 180 colouring books, colouring pencils and chocolates to the children’s ward at the RNOH as well as Hillingdon and Northwick Park Hospitals and several other hospitals and hospices in North London and Hertfordshire.
After she decided she had to do something to help, Chandni appealed for help on her social media channels and through word of mouth. Since then, she’s been able to set up a team of volunteers in London.
She also delivered 176 care packs to hospital staff and more than 800 meal deals, toiletries and other essential items to the homeless during the pandemic.
Speaking to BusheyNews, a delighted Chandni said: “It was totally unexpected and to be honest it still hasn’t fully sunk in. To have even been considered for this prestigious award makes me honoured and it’s without a doubt one of the proudest moments of my life.
“I’m lucky I’ve had so many good people around me during the last few months helping me along the way. Together, we will continue to make a difference and support those in need through these challenging times.
“I feel very privileged to be part of a great community that has come together to support each other. I look forward to continuing the work I’m doing and I’m truly grateful and honoured to receive the award from The Queen.”
As well as the MBE, Chandni has also received a Point of Light award from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and in a personal letter to Chandni, he said: “Every day throughout our battle against coronavirus I have recognised someone incredible in our country for their service to others.
“So, I am absolutely delighted to be able to thank you for the extraordinary work you have done to donate more than 1,000 meals and essential items to homeless and vulnerable people across London.”
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