WE read so often about the crisis that is ravaging health services in this country it is important to take time to reflect on the positive impact it can have on our lives too.

In today's The Northern Echo we lead on a story of inspiration, hope and a never-say-die attitude.

It showcases the incredible cancer survivor Adam Alderson who epitomises the description “stubborn Yorkshireman”. It also showcases the professionalism shown by a team of hospital staff whose skill, hard work and care ensured that Adam is now able to make plans about his future, marry his fiancé and raise money for charity.

Those dedicated healthcare professionals gave Adam a chance at life which he is now eagerly grasping with both hands.

His story is indeed a remarkable one but every day our health service offers countless examples where lives have been improved thanks to innovation, care and dedication.

In today’s Echo we also celebrate the first decade of Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and shine a spotlight on some unsung heroes of local healthcare.

Since the Trust was given foundation status in February 2007 it has overseen a transformation in the way that services are delivered. At the heart of its work has been a commitment to ensuring that local people play a fundamental role in helping to identify the priorities for improved services.

In A Decade of Care we talk to just a handful of the thousands of NHS staff who work so hard to improve our lives. Looking at the Trust’s progress over the last ten years offers a timely reminder that amid huge challenges, spending cuts, and threats of closure, we have a health service of which we can be proud and which we should fight to protect.

Congratulations to County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust and here’s to the next decade of care.