Dr Stephen Brennand Roper, a retired GP with a distinguished career in cardiopulmonary medicine and extensive voluntary service, has been awarded British Empire Medal as part of the King’s Birthday Honours list.
Dr Roper described receiving the award as “a great honour” and a “complete surprise”.
“I have been fortunate to be involved in voluntary work with the Guernsey Chest and Heart over the last 30 years, initially as Honorary Medical Advisor and as Chair for the last 10 years,” he said. “It is a unique charitable organisation now in its 50th anniversary year providing a screening service for the prevention of cardiovascular disease for islanders.
“I was also the Medical Advisor to the Ambulance and Rescue Service during which time the Flying Christine III was commissioned, paid for with charitable funds. I am very grateful for the support of my family as well as colleagues whom I have worked with over many years.”
Dr Roper’s BEM is specifically for his services to healthcare in Guernsey.
His dedication to community has been particularly evident through his three decades worth of voluntary involvement with the Guernsey Chest and Heart Association, which celebrates its 50th anniversary this year.
He initially served as Honorary Medical Advisor before becoming Chairman for the last ten years. He has been credited with ensuring the charity remains at the forefront of clinical practice, developing its future strategy, overseeing the construction of new premises, and designing an advanced IT system to enhance record-keeping and data protection.
His commitment to high-quality screening has been instrumental in saving many lives through early intervention, and he successfully led the service through the Coronavirus pandemic, helping to raise millions of pounds in donations.
Beyond the Chest and Heart Association, Dr Roper’s voluntary contributions extend to the St John Ambulance & Rescue Service, where he served as Medical Advisor from 1999 to 2003, advising on protocols and patient care.
During this time, the ‘Flying Christine III’ ambulance boat was commissioned, funded by charitable donations. He also volunteered for the medical team during International Powerboat Week in Guernsey, becoming the Race Doctor and coordinating safety with a large team of volunteers and naval assets.
Additionally, Dr Roper has volunteered with Guernsey Civil Defence and served as President of the Guernsey Classic Car Club.
In his professional career, Dr Roper was the Chairman and Senior Partner of a local medical practice, overseeing its development and expansion, including the construction of a new surgery.
He was also a driving force behind the computerisation of local primary care in the 1990s.
Dr Roper is one of seven being recognised as part of the King’s Birthday honours list from across the Bailiwick of Guernsey.