AN INSPIRATIONAL mum who campaigned to get defibrillators in every secondary school after her son died, attended one of the Queen’s garden parties yesterday, ahead of receiving a British Empire Medal (BEM).

June Thomas, of Oakdale, lost her 15-year-old son Jack when he died suddenly from a suspected heart problem in February 2012.

She and her husband Grant subsequently launched Jack’s Appeal – backed by the Argus – and raised more than £32,500 in a little over a year.

The campaign has also seen defibrillators installed in other primary schools.

She attended the garden party in London yesterday with her son Owain, and said she felt ‘privileged’ to be there.

Mrs Thomas said: “I did it for Jack and nobody else. I am very proud to have the award, it’s a bit of a shock for me to get it.

“The important thing has been raising awareness and making sure people don’t through the same hell we are still going through.

“This medal is for Owain and in memory of Jack. It is a family medal.”

Mrs Thomas is waiting for the date to be confirmed when she will receive her BEM - awarded for meritorious civil or military service - from the Lord Lieutenant of Gwent.