Getting to know....Jackie

Are there any particular projects or initiatives within the charity that you are passionate about or have taken a lead on?  

I am the treasurer, as a qualified accountant I help to run the charity’s finances, do the bookkeeping and prepare the accounts. 

What motivated you to join the board of trustees for our charity?  

My daughter in law lives with MCAS. 

Could you share any past experiences or achievements relevant to the mission of our charity?  

My son ran 27 marathons in 27 days and raised £270,000 for the charity. 

What do you believe sets our charity apart from others, and why do you feel it's important to support its mission?  

The charity supports people affected by MCAS which isn’t necessarily a recognised condition by the medical profession. This is a challenge in itself when compared to other charities, for example, cancer charities, where there is more support from the medical community. The passion of those involved in the charity is making such a difference to so many people’s lives. It is incredibly important to support it's mission to continue to raise awareness and expand the support network for those affected. 

Can you share a memorable moment or experience from your time as a trustee?  

There are many, but probably the recruitment of our operations director, Joy as the charity’s first employee. 

In what ways do you personally engage with the community or beneficiaries our charity serves?  

I don’t really engage with the wider community, but I spend a lot of time with my daughter in law, I have learnt so much about MCAS since my involvement with the charity. 

What do you hope to accomplish or see achieved by our charity in the next few years?  

Growth and stability – increasing fundraising opportunities including regular donors. Expansion of the team - more trustees, employees and volunteers. Also, to make more of an impact into the medical world that may trigger research projects in the future. 

Stuck in a lift with….Jackie

What's your favourite thing about being involved with our charity?

The people, they are amazing. 

Can you share a fun or interesting fact about yourself that others might not know?

I love music and at the age of 55 I got my first tattoo which is my favourite lyric, from my favourite song, by my favourite band 😊 

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your work with the charity?

As above, I love music and try and get as many gigs in a year as possible. I love being in the outdoors and pottering about in my little garden. I also love animals and have 3 cats and 2 dogs; they keep me busy! 

What's a book, movie, or podcast you've recently enjoyed, and why?

Angela’s Ashes is one of may favourite movies and I have read the book too. It makes me laugh and cry, I love a true story.  

Is there a particular quote or saying that resonates with you and influences your approach to life?

Be yourself and never give up. 

Can you share a memorable moment from your time volunteering or working with our charity?

Really, just seeing what an impact the money raised from Marathons for Mast Cell has had on the charity. It makes me so proud. 

What's your favourite memory associated with the work our charity does?

For me (being quite new to the charity) it was the realisation of how much the charity does to offer support to those affected, and how many volunteers are willing to give up their time. 

If you could meet any historical figure, who would it be and why?

I’m not sure if he is historical or not, but I would have loved to have met Gerald Durrell. I share a passion for animals, and Corfu is one of my favourite places to visit. 

What's something on your bucket list that you hope to accomplish someday?

When I was 11 years old, I set myself 3 tasks. One, to do a skydive; two to write a children’s book and three to run a marathon. I’ve only managed one of them so far.