Written by Cancer Card on 1st December, 2025
We are delighted to share the news that Jen Hardy MBE who founded Cancer Card, has been awarded an Honorary Doctorate on Monday, 1 December 2025, by Heriot-Watt University.
Jen has been an inspiring advocate and campaigner since her diagnosis in 2017. She has supported the campaigning activity of Breast Cancer Now, encouraging access to pertuzumab in Scotland. In 2021, she established Cancer Card to improve access to information and support for people affected by cancer. In 2023, Jen was awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List for her contribution to charity. Jen’s desire to make a difference is an inspiration and a guiding light for the charity’s staff, Trustees, and volunteers.
Accepting the honorary title, Doctor of Letters, at a ceremony in the University’s James Watt Building, Jen Hardy, said: “What an honour it is to receive this recognition from Heriot-Watt. This university has been part of my family for three generations and the skills I developed during my time here became the foundation for everything that followed.
"My life changed completely when I was diagnosed with incurable cancer in 2017. I adapted to that change and made it count for good by founding the Cancer Card charity.
"I accept this honour on behalf of everyone who has heard the words 'you have cancer' – those living with it, those beyond it and in memory of those we have lost.”
“I’m absolutely delighted that Jen has received this amazing recognition. It’s such well-deserved acknowledgement of the hard work and support she has given to the cancer community in Scotland.” — Ian Pirrie, Chair of Trustees
