Meningitis UK Patrons and Trustees
Patrons
Jane Seymour & James Keach
Patrons
Hollywood actress, star of 'Dr Quinn, Medicine Woman and mother of six Jane Seymour & her husband, American actor, producer and director James Keach have recently become patrons of Meningitis UK.
They said: "The stories about families who have lost a loved one to meningitis, or who live with someone who has suffered the devastating consequences of the disease, are so moving".
As parents, we can imagine only too clearly what agony this must be. If by supporting Meningitis UK, we can help to eradicate the disease and put an end to the devastation it causes, we feel it is wholly worthwhile."
Robin Cousins MBE
Patron
Robin Cousins MBE is one of Britain's best loved ice skaters. Robin won a figure skating gold medal at the 1980 Winter Olympics but is now best known as being the head judge on ITV1's Dancing on Ice. Robin became a patron of Meningitis UK as the cause is close to his heart.
Robin said: "I am keen to support Meningitis UK and its Search 4 a Vaccine because I know only too well how devastating the disease can be and how quickly it can strike.
"My eldest brother Barry died of meningitis before my two brothers and I were born, so it had a big impact on my family.
"I am only too happy to lend my support to raise awareness of the symptoms and to put an end to this disease which causes so much heartache and suffering."
Denis Law
Patron
Football legend Denis Law, played for Manchester United and Scotland during the golden era of George Best and Bobby Charlton. During that time he was voted 'European Footballer of the Year'. Denis has been a friend of the charity for many years.
Denis said "My son Andrew suffered from meningitis and meningococcal septicaemia when he was 24, but thankfully recovered, so Meningitis UK is a charity that is very close to my heart. It is a great privilege to be a Patron for such a worthwhile cause and I really enjoy taking part in their events and helping to raise money to fund the charity's important search for a vaccine".
Shirley Webb
Patron
Shirley Webb, who stars as Battleaxe in Sky One's remake of the classic 90s show Gladiators, has become a patron of Meningitis UK after seeing first hand how quickly the disease can strike. Shirley, a former record hammer thrower, is now throwing her weight behind Meningitis UK's Search 4 a Vaccine Campaign.
Shirley said: "I suffered from viral meningitis last Easter and it wiped me out for about two months. Thankfully I haven't suffered from any serious after-effects but it was a stark reminder of how much damage meningitis can cause, especially as I am considered a very fit and healthy person.
"Although I had the viral form of meningitis it highlights how dangerous the disease can be and why a vaccine is needed against all strains. I am pleased to be a patron and to help raise awareness of Meningitis UK and the important research the charity funds."
Bob Woodward
Patron
Bob Woodward, who founded the children's cancer charity CLIC when his son Robert was diagnosed with cancer aged 11 in 1977, has been very closely involved with Meningitis UK since the charity first started.
Steve Dayman, Chief Executive of Meningitis UK said "Meningitis UK's flagship laboratories in the University of Bristol, named after my son Spencer, would not have been created without Bob's leading role in the negotiations and it is an honour to have Bob as a Patron. Bob is a legend of charity fundraising and so many worthy causes have achieved so much because of his direct involvement".
Trustees
Meningitis UK's board of Trustees oversee the governance and overall direction of the organisation, plus guide and support the Senior Management team in implementing the charity's strategic vision and policies. They also ensure that the charity's funds are put to best use in accordance with legal and regulatory requirements.
Richard Gillett
Chairman
Richard Gillett - Chairman
Christopher Northover
Sarah Portway-Berry
Nichola Sheppard
MeningitisUK · Registered Charity No.1076774
