Our Trustees
Most of us have direct experience of MCAS, either as someone living with MCAS, or through a family member or friend. Though our stories are each unique, they share the common thread of the difficulties and frustrations that accompany learning to cope with chronic illness, searching for a diagnosis, and struggling to receive treatment.
Eric Grounds
Eric’s background spans military service, business, sports and he is an author. Key to his skill set, is extensive charity experience, having worked in the voluntary sector for over 30 years and being a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Fundraising.
You can read more about Eric's work as a trustee and what he likes to do in his spare time, here.
Gawain Paling
Gawain has MCAS. After experiencing a spell of "progressively deteriorating bizarre episodic symptoms" and spending a lot of money on private health consultations, seeing numerous specialists, Gawain was eventually diagnosed with MCAS. However, his struggles led to depression and impacted his family life, motivating him to establish Mast Cell Action with Chris in 2015.
You can read more of Gawain's story here.
Jackie Fisher
Jackie was introduced to Mast Cell Action by her son, Scott Fisher. Scott ran 27 marathons in 2021 raising an incredible £270k. Jackie's daughter-in-law, Megan, has MCAS. Jackie says "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."
You can read more about Jackie's thoughts on the future of the charity and how she spends her spare time here.
Chris Wood
Chris says "The complete vacuum of understanding and support within the medical system convinced me something needed to be done, so when I was approached by Gawain and Jennie, I was happy to join them in founding Mast Cell Action. My background is one of branding, design and communications so I was able to help in the initial stages of sorting a name, branding, website and so on. I was subsequently volunteered to raise some money which led to undertaking two walks of the Thames along with 15 different dogs (another story!)"
You can read more about Chris' hopes for the charity and how he likes to spend his spare time here.
Our Team
We are a small team, but what we lack in size we make up for in determination, enthusiasm and a relentless commitment to making life better for people with MCAS.
Despite our size, we have a big vision and an unwavering dedication to achieving our goals. We pride ourselves on our ability to adapt and persevere, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
Meet the team below:
Joy Mason
Joy leads the day to day running of our charity. Joy has MCAS and cares for 2 children with MCAS. Having worked in various charities for the past decade, she has extensive experience which she brings to the team.
Her personal experience with MCAS provides her with a deep understanding and empathy for those we aim to help, ensuring our initiatives are both relevant and impactful.
You can read more about Joy's experiences with MCAS and her work here.
Charise Clarke
Charise is our Community Engagement Coordinator and works closely with our community to develop support, services and resources for the charity.
Charise has always been drawn to helping others. For nine years she worked in the community as a support worker supporting adults with learning difficulties, mental health issues and physical disabilities. She then worked with children as a tutor, TA and Science workshop facilitator before going into recruitment and eventually volunteer management.
Our Medical Engagement Team
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Mast Cell Action relies entirely on the generosity of people like you. Please make a donation now and together we can make a difference to those affected by MCAS.