A YORK man with a debilitating condition has won praise from NHS officials for his charity work.

Ron Middlemass, of Huntington, has raised more than £25,000 for York Hospital since he was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis at the age of 72 in 2006.

The debilitating, and potentially life-threatening illness is a neuromuscular disease, which causes muscle fatigue and weakness.

Jaynie Pateraki, a respiratory specialist nurse at York Hospital, who first met Ron when he approached the hospital with fundraising ideas, was so touched by Ron’s work she has nominated him for Fundraiser Of The Year in the 2011 Community Pride Awards.

Jaynie said: “He approached me and the lead respiratory consultant, Dr John White, with fundraising ideas for equipment that we desperately needed.

“We were both warmed by Ron’s passion and commitment to his charity, and his enthusiasm and eagerness to help others.”

Since 2008, Ron has worked with the national myasthenia gravis charity to organise and take part in more than 100 fundraising events around York, which have raised £25,293.50 to buy vital equipment for the respiratory unit.

Jaynie said: “His fortitude and tenacity towards his fundraising has been amazing.

“I really do believe that Ron’s efforts and commitment to a charity which, until his involvement was not particularly well known, deserves a Community Pride award.”

Ron said he was flattered and amused by the nomination, as he had already nominated Jaynie as Health Service Hero in this year’s awards, which are held in partnership with City of York Council and local businesses.

Ron said: “I quickly realised Jaynie is totally dedicated to her job, and most importantly cares for her patients.

“Everyone at the hospital who works with Jaynie is full of admiration for her total dedication to patient care, which is second to none. Nurses, doctors and consultants all agree, she is gentle and kind to everybody, and I once overheard a doctor call her a ‘little treasure’.”

All nominees must live or be based in the City of York Council tax area, and the winners will be invited to a special awards ceremony in October.

Nominations can be submitted at thepress.co.uk/news/communitypride. Closing date is July 22.