Alexander Johnston, 82, from Sherfield on Loddon, will join just two other finalists chosen from across the UK to be in the running for the title of Volunteer of the Year at the national brain injury awards ceremony organised by Headway – the brain injury association.
The accolade, sponsored by Anthony Gold Solicitors, will be presented at a star-studded ceremony at The Dorchester Hotel in London on Friday 8, December.
"I was surprised to be nominated to say the least," said Alexander. "I haven't done anything special."
Alexander, known as Sandy to his friends, might not think he has done anything out of the ordinary, but his fellow volunteers, staff and service users at Headway Basingstoke would beg to differ.
Sandy started volunteering 20 years ago, after his son Daniel was left for dead by a hit-and-run driver.
"We were very shocked to see him like that," said Sandy. He had pipes down his throat. He had injuries all over, from his head down to his legs. They never actually said he was gonner', but he was badly injured, no doubt about it."
When Daniel was referred to Headway Basingstoke to help with his rehabilitation, Sandy was asked whether he would like to volunteer for the charity and he never looked back.
"Headway Basingstoke has been so good to Daniel and we're extremely grateful," said Sandy.
"I have always enjoyed volunteering there. There are some serious moments and some challenging ones too, but it's always fun.
"I think humour is very important. If you've got problems the best way to get over those problems is to enjoy yourself. It's true what they say, laughter really is the best medicine."
For the past two decades, Sandy has donated thousands of hours to Headway Basingstoke, and has taken on every job going.
He motivates clients to engage in their rehab activities, mediates when an individual's behaviour becomes challenging and supports men who have lost their network of friends and struggle to talk to female staff.
He takes people on trips to the garden centre and the swimming pool, activities they would not be able to enjoy if it wasn't for his generosity. He's been known to put on a silly outfit or two to help the charity raise funds, from a maid's pinafore to a Christmas elf costume.
"Until people see the work that Headway does, you can't appreciate just how much of a difference it makes," said Sandy.
Thanks to the support of his family and Headway, Sandy's son Daniel has made an amazing recovery. He now has a wife and two children and works at South End University Hospital.
Heather Jury, service manager at Headway Basingstoke, said: "Sandy's dedication to the clients and the charity is valued beyond description. His commitment to supporting us during difficult times is overwhelming and he's shown no fear in the face of the enemy such as funding cuts.
"We all love Sandy dearly and appreciate everything he has done and continues to do for Headway Basingstoke.
"We really appreciate all the time and skills he donates to improve the lives of people living with brain injury, their families and carers.
"Without volunteers like Sandy, the voluntary sector would be a quieter, smaller and less effective place."
The Volunteer of the Year will be named at a glittering ceremony at The Dorchester Hotel in London on Friday 8, December, along with awards for the Achiever, Carer and Campaigner of the Year, and the Stephen McAleese Outstanding Contribution to Headway Award.
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