What is your motivation to become a trustee of the MND Association?
I could not have imagined when 30 years ago I met an individual with MND that I would have committed a fair chunk of my professional career to caring for those with the disease. I still recall the appointment, an archetypal Camberwell resident, whose role as a public servant was ended by a disease that we knew little about and could do even less to treat.
Over the decades, we have seen the knowledge of neurological conditions grow and previously untreatable disorders rendered much more manageable (if not curable). MND is now up there, actively being investigated by the cumulative brain powers of thousands of scientists and clinicians coupled with astonishing advances in technology.
Potentially exciting times, but those already with the disease still need the care, support and enthusiasm of the MND Association. I've witnessed the benefits the organisation provides individuals with MND, the family and friends that care for them, the community network, hospital teams, and researchers. I consider it a privilege to be asked to contribute some of my accumulated experience and helping the Association stay on track as we move toward a brighter outlook for those affected by this devastating disease.
What experience and skills will you bring to your role as a trustee?
In addition to helping to run the Manchester MND Care Centre for nearly 20 years, I've contributed to both basic science and clinical research.
I would consider myself a small cog in a very complex system, but by virtue of my position in the centre of things, I understand how the system works for, and against those with MND.
I hope that my knowledge and experience will be helpful in the Association's quest to improve the diagnosis, care and outcome of those with the disease.